What do the Olympics mean for world affairs?

Submitted by Susan Young on Mon, 04/14/2008 - 21:22.

As the Olympic torch makes its way across the globe, it has drawn protests from people advocating for China to end its occupation of Tibet. Some have called on President Bush
to boycott the opening ceremonies in Beijing this summer. What is the connection between the Olympics and world affairs? Should the sports event be free of political overtones? Or is it legitimate to bring human rights concerns to the attention of the host nation?

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olympics

Submitted by richard on Fri, 04/18/2008 - 15:13.

actually the olympics were a way to test warriors and soldiers readiness for battle without actually killing them.this allowed the leaders to figure out who was ready and who wasn't.they didn't become an arena for ameteur athletes for several centurys. but politics should not be involved anyway.

Olympic Games are NOT about Politics!

Submitted by tenzing on Wed, 04/16/2008 - 13:24.

The Olympic Games were established to transcend politics, war and all the ugliness associated global diplomacy. It is supposed to be time when all nations cease their bickering and allow the citizen athletes a chance to compete. Though I feel China has crossed the line politically with regard to treatment of Tibet, there is no way that should interfere with the events of the Olympics. I could care less about what George W. Bush or any other world leader for that matter does during the Olympics. What I want to see is Michael Phelps do some serious damage in his event, because we haven't heard from him since the last Olympic Games. The Olympics are about athletics, not politics! Let the Games begin!

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