Filozofska istraživanja, Vol. 46 No. 1, 2026.
Preliminary communication
https://doi.org/10.21464/fi46101
The Metaphysics of Sport, or – How Does Sport Even Exist?
Jernej Pisk
; Zavod sv. Stanislava, Štula 23, SI–1210 Ljubljana
Abstract
The article explores the ontological status of sport through the lens of Aristotelian-Thomistic metaphysics. Starting with fundamental questions about the nature of sport’s existence, it establishes that sport is not an independent substance, but rather a real accident of the human person. The author utilizes key metaphysical concepts such as the distinction between essence and existence, potency and act, and the theory of four causes. Special emphasis is placed on the institutional nature of sport, which is metaphysically grounded in the category of relation and the network of real relations. Through a dialogue with contemporary authors (Bernard Suits, William J. Morgan, John S. Russell), the article demonstrates that the essence of sport is determined by its final cause (the lusory goal), whereas instrumental rules are accidental in nature. The author critiques nominalistic reductionism, which empties sport of its intrinsic nature and thereby subjects it to external market interests. It argues that only a clear ontological hierarchy allows for the protection of the athlete’s dignity and the integrity of sport.
Keywords
metaphysics of sport; Aristotle; Thomas Aquinas; substance; accident; potency; act; teleology; lusory goal; realism; nominalism
Hrčak ID:
351138
URI
Publication date:
20.9.2026.
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