The Complex Relationship Between Sexuality And Power In Sports

800 Words4 Pages

The sports field mirrors society, highlighting the complex relationship between sexuality and power that affects athletes' careers and the culture of sports. Sexuality and power, fundamental human experiences, are interconnected and shape various societal sectors. This essay examines these intertwined elements within the sports arena through the insights of three distinct sources. Michel Foucault's seminal work, "The History of Sexuality: An Introduction", presents the theoretical framework of power's pervasive influence over sexuality. Sonia Elks' detailed report "Coming out still a hurdle too high for many gay sports stars?, explores the struggles faced by gay athletes in coming to terms with their sexuality in the world of sports, thus highlighting …show more content…

The relationship between the two is not one of mutual exclusivity, as traditionally assumed, but one of deep interconnectedness. Foucault introduces the compelling concept of "power-knowledge," demonstrating how power is not exercised by suppressing sexuality. Instead, it is subtly managed and incorporated into discourse, transforming it into a vehicle for power transmission. The sports arena becomes a visible stage where this phenomenon is enacted. For example, athletes' sexual identities are often placed under a microscope, analyzed, and then leveraged to construct public personas, reinforcing societal norms, and expectations in the process (Foucault, …show more content…

The protagonist's navigation of sexual relationships and the subsequent impact on her self-perception and interpersonal relations offer valuable insights. These aspects are not confined to the film's narrative but resonate with athletes who similarly negotiate their self-esteem and relationships within the public gaze. The power dynamics that arise from these interactions and the influence they exert on the individual's self-esteem underline the fact that the sexuality-power dynamic is not limited to societal or professional constructs but seeps into personal dimensions as