C. S. Lewis at the 2012 London Olympics: Reflections on Pride and Humility

This article provides a theological analysis of modern professional sport, in particular the modern Olympic Games, in light of some of C. S. Lewis's writings on pride and humility. This is prefaced with an analysis of the nature and character of "human competition" in the sporting context and its potential positive and negative consequences. We conclude by suggesting that the modern professional sports institution and the Olympic movement, while possessing many positive and enriching attributes, requires "wholesale spiritual rehabilitation" due in part to both individual and national pride. However, we also believe that the modern Olympic Games that are characterized by passionate international sports competition, has many positive and life-affirming attributes and that there is hope of a lasting "legacy," the prayer of Lord Coe!