COM-362_ syllogistic analysis (1)
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The Argument Against Men Competing in Women's Sports
A Syllogistic Analysis
Lauren Rush
Grand Canyon University; College of Humanities & Social Sciences
COM-362: Argumentation and Advocacy
Professor Tsihugwa Kikuyu
December 17, 2023
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Introduction
Men participating in women's sports has become a more controversial topic of discussion,
which concerns those who are against the practice. Those opposed contend that permitting men to participate in women's sports compromises the values of impartial competition and endangers the well-being of female athletes. Men and women differ in terms of bone density and muscle mass, among other physical characteristics, which critics claim creates an unfair playing field. “Olympic leaders say there's no such thing as male advantage in sport. Here's a simple question for them: if that were true, why not just scrap sex-based categories of men and women altogether?” (Davies, S. 1). These issues challenge the delicate balance between inclusivity and preserving the integrity of women's sports, adding to the complexity of the argument.
The following premises become apparent when applying a syllogistic style to evaluate and summarize the case against men participating in women's sports: First of all, there is a biological difference between men and women that impacts how well they function physically. Secondly, the addition of male athletes may upset the equilibrium necessary for competitive sports, which depend on level playing fields. Therefore, opponents claim that keeping sports segregated based on biological sex maintains fair competition and protects the fundamental qualities of women's sports. As the discussion progresses, analyzing these premises in the context of a syllogistic framework becomes essential for a thorough comprehension of the complex arguments at hand.
Summary of the Argument
Major Premise: All men, on average, exhibit physical advantages, including greater muscle mass and bone density, compared to women.
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Minor Premise: These physical advantages contribute to performance differences in sports, thereby creating an uneven playing field.
Conclusion: Allowing men to participate in women's sports will jeopardize the integrity of fair competition and impede opportunities for women athletes.
Research
Examining the presumptions behind the argument against men playing women's sports exposes a dependence on the idea that differences in biology affect physical ability. The argument claims that fair competition requires recognition and respect for these physiological variances. In order to provide an equal playing field, it is assumed that physical equality should be given priority in a competitive sporting setting. “It is important that sport environments are inclusive to all, especially considering the mental and physical health benefits of physical activity; however, research to date suggests that sport is a cisgenderist environment which does not always welcome trans people, and our research aims to explore this further” (Afroozeh, M. S.
Et al. 1225). Because of biological differences, men typically display higher physical strength than women do. Variations in hormones, especially higher testosterone levels in men, are linked to enhanced bone density and muscular growth. “Physiological differences accompanying puberty result in a sporting performance advantage for males over females, an advantage generally calculated at 10-12%” (Sailors, P. R. 420). That just states that on average, men are typically stronger than women. These elements improve the growth of muscles and physical strength. Furthermore, the underlying strength disparity is shaped in part by genetic predispositions. These biological differences account for part of the observed average physical strength difference between men and women, even in the presence of individual variances.
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The Christian faith includes a spectrum of beliefs, resulting in varying opinions on LGBTQ problems. Conservative viewpoints are influenced by certain Christians' interpretation of biblical scriptures that condemn same-sex unions. “Most Christians believe that birth sex determines whether one is a man or woman, whereas nonreligious people do not” (Robinson, C. M. & Spivey, S. E., 3). It's important to remember, though, that not all those who call themselves
Christians hold these opinions. In fact, many have inclusive and affirming attitudes, seeing love and acceptance as fundamental Christian principles. These individuals read the Bible differently to suit their beliefs because they are more progressive in their religious views. Above all, it is critical to treat others who have different opinions from oneself with the same love and respect as
Christ would. This requires understanding and respecting the diversity of viewpoints within the Christian community.
However, possible inconsistencies become apparent when examined through the prism of
a Christian worldview. The Christian viewpoint frequently places a strong emphasis on ideas of compassion, empathy, and inclusivity. Although it is legitimate to acknowledge and value biological differences, an absolutist approach can run counter to Christian values of tolerance and diversity. Furthermore, the Christian Worldview emphasizes the value of showing love and respect to others, which begs the question of whether it is discriminatory to forbid men from taking part in women's sports. This inconsistency paves the way for a different line of reasoning that aims for a more complex approach, taking into account both the inclusionary Christian values and biological reality. A perspective that values justice without sacrificing compassion is fostered by striking a balance between accepting physical differences and creating an atmosphere of understanding. This is more in line with the holistic ideals of the Christian Worldview.
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Even though the Christian worldview does hold that we are to show love and respect to others and invite them to join and include everyone no matter what, the Holy Bible also tells us that men and women are different. Theological and scriptural viewpoints form the basis of the Christian Worldview's understanding of gender distinctions. A complementary perspective on gender is given by the Bible, which emphasizes that although men and women are made in God's
image, they have different functions and traits. Conventional Christian teachings recognize the inherent diversity in each gender's features and emphasize the distinctive qualities and roles allotted to each. For example, the Bible may make references to roles that emphasize care for women and leadership for males. This view emphasizes respect and collaboration between men and women within the context of Christian ideals, and it promotes the idea that acknowledging and appreciating these differences leads to a peaceful and meaningful cohabitation.
The need for us as Christians to love everyone comes from the realization that everyone, including ourselves, is fundamentally flawed and sinful. “Christian love of neighbor is driven by the concern for the eternal welfare of others, desiring that they experience and cleave to God's perfect love” (Cheong, R. K., & DiBlasio, F. A., 5). Humility and compassion are fostered by accepting this shared human predicament. Christ calls followers to emulate his teachings, which place a strong emphasis on forgiveness and unconditional love. Understanding that we are all recipients of divine mercy despite our shortcomings highlights the Christian commitment to give love indiscriminately and acknowledges our shared need for grace.
Valid Argument + Syllogism
I claim that because of innate biological differences that are essential to preserving fair competition, men shouldn't participate in women's sports.
1.
Fairness in competitive sports depends on level playing fields.
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2.
The competitive landscape is uneven because of biological variations between men and women, such as inequalities in bone density and muscle mass.
3.
One of the main priorities in sports governance is maintaining fair competition.
In light of this, it is appropriate to keep men out of women's sports in order to preserve the integrity of fair competition.
Conclusion
I've made a persuasive case in this essay against men participating in women's sports, highlighting the innate biological distinctions that have an impact on fair play. I have argued, using a syllogistic framework, that it is essential to acknowledge these distinctions in order to preserve sports' integrity and keep them consistent with Christian principles. The following are the key points, fair competition and alignment with the Christian Worldview. Fair competition means that the level playing fields are necessary for competitive sports, and recognizing biological differences guarantees fairness. The argument is consistent with the Christian Worldview in that it emphasizes the value of compassion and inclusivity while also emphasizing justice and valuing individual diversity.
This essay urges a balance between justice and inclusivity and stresses the need for critical thinking when handling complicated situations. The argument highlights the importance of appreciating and comprehending biological variations while cultivating a compassionate atmosphere by conforming to Christian values. The call to action is to have open discussions while advocating for a comprehensive strategy that takes into account all viewpoints and looks for just solutions in the framework of Christian values and sports.
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References
Afroozeh, M. S., Phipps, C., Afrouzeh, A., Mehri, A., & Alipour Asiri, Z. (2023). “The spectators ask, is it a boy or a girl? What is it?”: Cultural cisgenderism and trans men’s sporting experiences in Iran. International Review for the Sociology of Sport, 58(8), 1221–1240.
Cheong, R. K., & DiBlasio, F. A. (2007). Christ-like love and forgiveness: A biblical foundation for counseling practice. Journal of Psychology and Christianity
, 26
(1), 14–25.
Christine M. Robinson, & Sue E. Spivey. (2019). Ungodly Genders: Deconstructing Ex-Gay Movement Discourses of “Transgenderism” in the US. Social Sciences
, 8
(6), 191. https://doi-org.lopes.idm.oclc.org/10.3390/socsci8060191
Davies, S. (2023, June 17). Men don't belong in women's sport. Spectator
, 352
(10164), 24. https://link-gale-com.lopes.idm.oclc.org/apps/doc/A760079443/ITOF?
u=canyonuniv&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=e2290f47
Sailors, P. R. (2020). Transgender and Intersex Athletes and the Women’s Category in Sport. Sport, Ethics & Philosophy
, 14
(4), 419–431.