China Olympics

The Olympic Games in Beijing China are over and we question not their entertainment value. That is clear from the millions of people around the world that tuned in to see them on television. What we do question is whether the Olympics have any value in bringing people and nations closer together - or whether they serve only to distance them further from one another by asserting national pride as the ultimate goal.

The Chinese allegedly used underage athletes in the gymnastic events. The Georgians had volleyball players competing for them that were not admittedly Georgians. And let’s not forget the judging scandals of the past -- as well as the allegations of illegal drug use and even, artificial sex changes, - all for the sake of national pride.

Competition is a good thing. It is the basis of a capitalistic and free society. But competition amongst nations at the Olympic level seems to us to heighten rather than diminish the distrust we have for those beyond our borders.

And let’s not forget the financial cost. Nations, even the one’s that can ill afford it, spend millions on the Olympics all for the sake of national honor. This while their residents lack social services, food and even potable water.

Eliminating the Olympic Games will likely not help the impoverished. But lets accept the Olympics for what they are “The Greatest Show on Earth” selling lots of tickets, advertising and sponsorship.

This Commentary has been brought to you by Naked News, the official critic of the Olympic Games.

I hope they don’t sue us for that statement.