Breakdancing in Olympics Sparks Cultural Debate
The debate over breakdancing in the Olympics highlights the cultural and ideological discussions surrounding sports and art.
A grand debate has erupted regarding the inclusion of “breakdancing” in the Olympics. Despite that, it remains a monument to the performance on stage of a 17-year-old Lithuanian who cannot be overlooked. Not only are breakdancing rookies gaining international recognition as a sport, but they also gather internet audiences for discussing their cultural relevance and ever-changing boundaries between sports and art manifestations.
The most ardent critics and strongest supporters also wear out the keyboard on social networks to reiterate the point made possibly in the 70s that “it is not a sport.” However, those greatest critics are not all negative, as Ice-T, one of the most prolific rap artists, insists there may be “no greater accomplishment for hip-hop!” Such considerations bring to light how subjective a sport’s selection may be, despite breakdancing, skating, or wrestling entering the Olympic Games. That is why, as the Olympics continue, the breakdancing of the Lithuanian does not remain merely as a sporting performance but takes the central throne in discussions on cultural decency and sport’s ideological blurriness.
