Question

When governments sponsor sports and political officials associate themselves with sports, their primary purpose is often to?

1) decrease their power in international politics
2) increase their legitimacy in the eyes of citizens
3) show voters that sports are connected with politics
4) gain political credibility in the eyes of political scientists

Answer 1

Governments sponsor sports and associate themselves with sports to increase their legitimacy in the eyes of citizens.

Step-by-step explanation:

Social Studies - High School

Governments sponsor sports and political officials associate themselves with sports primarily to increase their legitimacy in the eyes of citizens. By sponsoring sports events and aligning themselves with successful athletes or teams, governments and political officials can cultivate a positive image and gain the support and trust of the public.

For example, when a government sponsors the Olympics or hosts a major sporting event, it showcases their ability to organize and manage international events, which can enhance their reputation. Additionally, political officials associating themselves with successful athletes or teams can create a sense of national pride and unity, which further strengthens their legitimacy.

By using sports as a platform, governments and political officials can connect with citizens on a more relatable and emotional level, thereby gaining political credibility and support.