Question

In what ways have athletes historically been exploited? Are there similarities in exploitation with how the Roman athletes and gladiators were treated with athletes today?

Answer 1

                   The exploitation of athletes has its roots in the classical period of human civilization. Even the Athenian society, which is known for its amateur sports activities, showed an inclination towards professionalism when it employed special training methods and diets for the athletes, turning them into ‘mortal engines’ by dehumanizing them. The exploitation reached its peak in the Roman Civilization when gladiators were made to combat each other for the entertainment of the spectators and the profit of the organizers. The gladiators were often slaves who had be content with the gifts and the popularity they received. They were not given a share of the profits made by their owners. Even the popularity they received was temporary. They were treated as highly dispensable commodities and were easily forgotten after a significant injury or death.

There are a lot of similarities between the Roman gladiators and modern day athletes, especially the college athletes.

• Athletes who participate in games such as American football run the risk of severely injuring themselves, just like the Roman gladiators who were often killed. A survey has revealed that 33 NCAA football players died between 2000 and 2016 due to injuries sustained in the football field.
• Just like their Roman counterparts, modern day athletes receive a lot of attention when they are in their prime. They are discarded mercilessly when they suffer a loss of form or a career threatening injury.
• The gladiators never received a share of the profits that they generated. Similarly, student athletes generate enormous profits for others but are never paid for their efforts.