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Controversy Over Enhanced Games in Sports

May 1, 2025

Olympics on Steroids? Experts Slam Enhanced Games as 'Extremely Dangerous'

Overview

  • Article Date: July 11, 2024
  • Source: ScienceAlert by Daniel Lawler, AFP
  • Main Topic: The controversy surrounding the proposed "Enhanced Games", which promote the use of performance-enhancing drugs in athletics.

Key Points

The Enhanced Games

  • Scheduled for late next year.
  • Aim to rival the traditional Olympics by allowing and encouraging the use of performance-enhancing drugs.
  • Promoted as a way to 'evolve mankind into a new superhumanity' by embracing medical advancements.
  • Organizers claim it will liberate athletes from anti-doping restrictions.

Safety and Health Concerns

  • Researchers express concerns over extreme doping risks, including heart attack, stroke, or death.
  • Anabolic steroids, known for damaging brains and vital organs, are expected to be widely used.
  • Games could incentivize athletes to use a combination of drugs, creating dangerous health risks.

Expert Opinions

  • Astrid Kristine Bjornebekk: Warns of the "extremely dangerous" potential of triggering unrestricted steroid use.
  • Dominic Sagoe: Highlights the risk of societal impact, including increased steroid use among youth and potential violence.
  • John William Devine: Raises ethical concerns over potential coercion in drug use by athletes.
  • Matthew Dunn: Points out the existing use of drugs in competitive sports and debates the potential of enhanced human abilities.

Ethical and Societal Implications

  • The proposal raises concerns about setting a dangerous precedent, potentially making drug-enhanced performance a norm in sports.
  • Will athletes face pressure to dope due to expectations from coaches, sponsors, or peers?
  • Possible negative influence on young athletes and the general public regarding drug use.

Current Developments

  • Retired swimmer James Magnussen has endorsed the Games, prepared to use drugs to break records.
  • Financial backing from investors like Peter Thiel.
  • The competition's feasibility remains uncertain amid criticisms and safety concerns.

Concluding Insights

  • Despite claims of medical oversight and athlete monitoring, the potential health risks and ethical issues pose significant challenges.
  • The Enhanced Games' success could lead to widespread societal consequences and alter perceptions of fair play and athletic achievement.