A Revised Definition of Games: An Analysis of Grasshopper Errors, Omissions, and Ambiguities. Issue 3 (2nd October 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kretchmar, Scott
• Is Part Of: Sport, ethics and philosophy. Volume 13:Issue 3/4(2019)
• Page Start: 277
• Page End: 292
• Publication Date: 2019-10-02
• Subjects: Suits -- game definitions -- nature of games -- sport and play; Sports -- Philosophy -- Periodicals; Sports -- Moral and ethical aspects -- Periodicals; 796.01
• DOI: 10.1080/17511321.2018.1561748
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1751-1321

Abstract

ABSTRACT: In this essay, I review Suits' classic description of games and cite three kinds of problems—mischaracterizations, omissions, and ambiguities. I build on previous criticisms by myself and others leveled at his definition. However, in contrast to much of this previous work, I will present what I hope is an improved description. The latter part of the essay is devoted to defending this alternate characterization. I conclude by arguing that my revisionist work paradoxically both supports and undermines the merits of Suits' anti-Wittgensteinian efforts to identify the necessary and sufficient conditions for games.