Beyond the Concept of Sport

Beyond the Concept of Sport challenges tired assumptions about athletics to unveil sports’ underestimated yet far-reaching social impact and philosophical significance. While governments downplay its influence, author Robert Griffiths recognizes that sports – especially cricket – deeply channels the human spirit for participants and fans alike. He eschews cliches to deliver fresh insight into sports’ resonance.

This is no dry academic tome, but rather a lively examination blending scholarship with accessibility. Griffiths brings iconoclastic yet sage opinions to unpacking how athletic pursuits shape culture and consciousness. He illuminates the under-appreciated role sports play in forging identity, purpose, inspiration, escapism and more for millions globally. Grappling with issues often overlooked when discussing athletics, Griffiths’ unconventional analysis explores fandom, nationalism, arts, business, and the very meaning woven through sports’ rituals.

Written with passionate intellect, wry wit, and a distaste for the dull, Beyond the Concept of Sport cries out to be read by both die-hard fans and curious sceptics. After all, few human realms spark such fervour and unity across the world’s divides like that of sports. This book captures that emotional impact while elevating sports as a subject worthy of serious yet spirited consideration.

W Robert Griffiths KC, SC is a practising barrister. Born in the Mumbles, Swansea, and brought up in Pembrokeshire, he attended Haverfordwest Grammar School from which he was awarded an Open Scholarship to St Edmund Hall, Oxford. He was called to the Bar in 1974 and appointed a Junior Counsel to the Crown (Common Law) in 1989 and appointed a QC in 1993. He was appointed a Senior Counsel (SC) in New South Wales, Australia in 1999. He was The Times Lawyer of the Week (2007) for his representation of the Australian umpire Darrell Hair in his claim against the International Cricket Council in respect of the ball tampering affair at the Oval. He is a Master of the Bench of Middle Temple and a Fellow of the Erasmus Forum in recognition of his contribution to law, philosophy and sport. He was Chairman of the MCC Development Committee for four years Chairman of the Laws Sub-Committee for six years and a member of the MCC Committee for twenty years. He was a director of The London Chamber of Commerce and President of The London Chamber of Arbitration. He was formerly a trustee of The Lord Taverner’s and a special adviser to The Prince’s Regeneration Trust. He is a Vice President of Crawshays Rugby Club, President of Johnston (Pembrokeshire) Cricket Club and he is a Freeman of the City of London.