response to Kenny's Question 11/24

Woodward and Denton describe the influence of celebrities in our culture and how at times they are held to a much higher ethical standard than the rest of us. This, however, can become a problem as many do not want to be. One profession that Woodward and Denton mention has a lot of problems with this is athletes. “Interestingly, a growing number of athletes deny any such responsibility. They believe they are paid to play the game, and they are not obligated to accept any other responsibility,” (358). When I read this, one instance that came to mind was the Michael Phelps smoking weed photo. After the photo was released many people were very upset and Phelps came out with an apology right away. Many supporters of his argued, however, that he is just a 20-something year old who was partaking in something that many people his age do. The entire conflict was a media frenzy and in the end was eventually left alone. I would like to know, however, your stance on this. Do you think that athletes should be held to a higher standard just because they are in the public eye? Should Michael Phelps have apologized for his actions and promised to not do it again?

I definitely think that athletes should be held to a higher standard because they are in the public eye. Because of their positions as role models, they should be more responsible and have a clean image. Even though these athletes didn't ask to be role models to people, it doesn't change the fact that they're not. This is just something that comes with their profession and something that they should be aware of. If athletes want the money, fame and recognition, they should be willing to pay the small price being a good role model. I think that Michael Phelps' decision to apologize for his actions was very smart because he took responsibility for what he did recognized that he did something wrong. It is a good way for people who look up to him to realize that no one is perfect and that when you do make bad life choices, you can learn from them and move on. I don't think that fact that Michael Phelps smoked weed makes him a bad person at all, however since he is in the public eye as an athlete, it is inappropriate for him to be seen doing this.