As Humans, we Play - Carter Jobe

 In class, the discussion of Homo Ludens and ludic action intrigued me, so I did a little more digging.

In 1938, Johan Huizinga wrote a book called Homo Ludens, Latin for "the playing man." In the work, he writes about ludic action, which entails any leisurely or playful action we take. He argues that playing is a fundamental aspect of human nature and teaches us valuable discipline and lessons in life. 

As children, we come to understand the world around us through playing. Learning games teach us how to count and the ABCs, while simultaneously keeping us engaged. Even in college, as a 19-year-old, I know that no matter how dull and disengaged a class is, the moment a teacher puts a Kahoot code on the board everyone suddenly becomes attentive. It's in our nature to get distracted, and playing can bring out our competitive spirit to give everything our all.

I however find this idea most relatable when concerning athletics and sports. Growing up playing sports has taught me the discipline necessary to improve at something. This can be true with any hobby, from baking to video gaming, the lesson that practice makes perfect is something that we humans learn from play, and I find that truly special.

There is significant proof that people who have what it takes to be professional athletes always shoot above and beyond, as even though any retired star from the NBA or NFL could happily coast through life with the money they made playing, they often opt to pursue something meaningful in their next venture.

For example, Muhamad Ali retired as a legendary boxer, often regarded as the best of his time. However, rather than enjoy his retirement relaxing he used his fame and influence to pursue political activism for issues that he believed in. 

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, one of the greatest NBA players ever, upon his retirement, pursued writing and activism, sharing his story with racism and fighting for equal rights.

There is certainly something to be said about the fiery nature that gets instilled in professional athletes from their time playing and competing, and what it can do when these athletes carry this discipline into other areas of their lives.

Play can be an instrumental factor in human and moral development, and although often overlooked it contributes to building us into who we are.

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