Type of Document Dissertation Author Hester, Michael David Author's Email Address mhester@westga.edu URN etd-04202005-135131 Title America's #1 Fan: A rhetorical analysis of presidential sports encomia and the symbolic power of sports in the articulation of civil religion in the United States Degree Ph.D. Department Communications Advisory Committee
Advisor Name Title Dr. Mary Stuckey Committee Chair Dr. Carol Winkler Committee Member Dr. Daniel Franklin Committee Member Dr. David Cheshier Committee Member Dr. James Darsey Committee Member Dr. M. Lane Bruner Committee Member Keywords
- civil religion
- encomia
- presidential rhetoric
- sports
Date of Defense 2004-10-28 Availability unrestricted Abstract White House ceremonies honoring sports champions -"presidential sports encomia" - have become common events in presidential communication since the Carter Administration. In the last quarter-century, more than one hundred presidential sports encomia have taken place, with US presidents honoring both professional and intercollegiate athletes. Presidential sports encomia not only afford Chief Executives an opportunity to stand alongside champions, creating a "winner-by-association" effect, but also allow them to articulate the importance of sports in American society. Whether addressing civic responsibility, patriotism, or race relations, presidential sports encomia ultimately connect athletic achievement to American ideals. In this way, the symbolic power of sports is employed in the development and maintenance of American civil religion. Analysis of these ceremonies reveals how US presidents use the rhetorical resources of sports encomia for both their own political agendas and the larger institution of the presidency.Files
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