Article Summary
The author presents arguments to support the value of extreme sports and risk-taking in our culture.
First the author says that these different sports contribute to the diversity of our culture. As humans, we all look for adventure, but some people seek more adventure than others. Psychologist Frank Farley developed the term “Type T” (for thrill seeking). Farley describes Type T personality types as “risk-takers” and adventurers who seek excitement and stimulation. Type T people are not just athletes who participate in extreme sports. They are also inventors, entrepreneurs and explorers. They are also CEOs, surgeons, and civil rights leaders.
Risk taking has been linked to levels with dopamine, a chemical found in the brain that regulates mood and pleasure. It is likely hardwired into our evolutionary makeup from ancient times, when our survival depended upon the ability to hunt and defend ourselves from attack from predators.
Some say that the world became far too safe. As a consequence, we need outlets for challenging outdoor activities. The author argues that instead of discouraging extreme sports, we should celebrate them for their differences and their pushing the limits of human endurance and athleticism.
Sports
Extreme Sports
C2 Debate Albatross Unit 2 Lesson 1