Written Analysis #3

            Michael Jordan, Andrei Agassi, Babe Ruth, Walter Payton, Pele, Jack Nicklaus, and Mary Lou Retton; all these names are synonymous with greatness in the world of athletics.  Each of these individuals have demonstrated unparalleled skill in their respective sports by breaking records and maintaining excellence throughout their careers. 

Few have followed that could accomplish this level of distinction, thus elevating the status of those have excelled in their profession to an elite status.  Such a division creates a sense of heroism in regards to the professional athletes in our society.  While these individuals may not fit the classical definition of a hero by championing a noble cause, we have allowed the title to stand due to their athletic ability and relentless pursuit to be the best in the world with respect to their specific sport. 

The Cult of the Celebrity is most likely a more applicable description of how we view these well-known players.  As discussed in previous analyses, our society has put these players on a pedestal.  One demonstration of such adoration is evident in the salaries paid to them especially in comparison to those who serve in education or other avenues of public service.  Their accomplishments are recorded, celebrated and used as comparisons to all future athletes aspiring to the same level of fame.  We also allow and encourage our youth to look up to these figures pointing out their success and determination to be “the best” in their arena.  Admiring these attributes and the avenues by which we measure the greatness of these public figures can lead to obsession to the point of even placing unrealistic expectations on ourselves or our children. 

We have blurred the lines between true heroism and talent in the athletic arena.  Applying the theories of heroism and Cult of the Celebrity will allow me to differentiate between the true heroes of the athletic world and those who are merely an infatuation for their fans.