Homo Forte: A Philosophical Tribute to Muscle. Issue 4 (2nd October 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kretchmar, Scott
• Is Part Of: Sport, ethics and philosophy. Volume 12:Issue 4(2018)
• Page Start: 375
• Page End: 385
• Publication Date: 2018-10-02
• Subjects: Muscle -- interdisciplinary -- evolution -- systems theory -- philosophy; Sports -- Philosophy -- Periodicals; Sports -- Moral and ethical aspects -- Periodicals; 796.01
• DOI: 10.1080/17511321.2018.1493529
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1751-1321

Abstract

ABSTRACT: In this paper, I argue from a holistic standpoint for the intimate relationship between people and their muscles. While this stands as a direct tribute to muscle, it also serves as an acknowledgment of the work of Bill Morgan who championed multidisciplinary perspectives when analyzing philosophic issues. I honor and expand upon Morgan's recommendations by discussing cultural, biological, and philosophical insights related to persons and their musculature. I review the 'poor treatment' typically accorded muscles and then rally an interdisciplinary apologetic—one that ranges from the body philosophy of Marcel and Merleau-Ponty to evolutionary biology and systems theory. I conclude with speculations about the uncertain future of muscle for human existence and well-being.