Sigmund Loland, Fair Play in Sport: A Moral Norm System (London: Routledge, 2002). Pp.xv + 175, £19.99 (paperback). ISBN 0-9-26070-6

Sigmund Loland’s book explores what is arguably the most significant virtue in sport, namely ‘fair play’. Although it is often invoked by players, spectators and commentators alike, the notion of ‘fair play’ has received little philosophical attention. What is fair play? How should we behave if we are to play fairly? Why does fair play matter? These are all central questions for the philosopher of sport. Loland’s aim in this book is the important one of developing a theory of fair play in sport and, given his practical orientation, to develop moral norms to guide action in sports competitions. Loland’s project is ambitious, attempting as he does to link an understanding of fair play to the general question of the potential meanings of sport. According to Loland, we want sport to be pursued under the auspices of fair play not only because it is better sport but for far loftier reasons. Sport played according to the norms of fair play enjoys a significant role in flourishing human lives.