Celebration Capitalism and the Olympic Games

Focusing on the political economy of the modern Olympics, Jules Boykoff critiques how the Games have evolved into a mechanism that protects the wealthy while delivering entertainment. He introduces the concept of "celebration capitalism," highlighting the collaboration between state and private entities that benefits the latter at the public's expense. Boykoff identifies the 2004 Athens Games as a turning point, with London 2012 exemplifying this trend through rampant commercialization, suppression of dissent, and questionable sustainability, making this study vital for those interested in sports, society, and global politics.