Sport and Olympism: Universals and Multiculturalism.

The article discusses globalization, multiculturalism and the struggle for universal principles to which diverse societies and cultures can all adhere. The author sees sport, especially the Olympics, as playing a significant role. First he articulates what globalization is, the growing interdependency among societies and people. He then considers the philosophy of Olympism. Olympism is a social philosophy that focuses on the function of sport in bringing about universal values to the global community. The author argues that liberal ideals must dominate if differing cultures are to live in mutual respect. Illiberal cultures, if they are decent, can be tolerated to a certain extent. He believes that sport can educate and develop general values in all cultures.