Moral behavior in sport

an epistemological essay from Kantian ethics to applied moral psychology

Authors

  • Gabriel F. Reis Faculdade de Filosofia e Ciências Humanas da Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina
  • Humberto M. Carvalho Faculdade de Esportes, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina

Keywords:

Sport and morality; Moral behavior; Kantian ethics; Moral development

Abstract

This work proposes a theoretical-epistemological review of moral behavior, articulating three main axes: the normative foundation of morality in Kant's practical philosophy; the transition to the empirical field of moral psychology, where morality is understood as a multidimensional construct; and sport as a privileged field for the manifestation and problematization of morality in action. Starting from Kantian ethics, founded on the categorical imperative and rational autonomy, the shift from a normative focus to developmental, affective, and contextual approaches to moral behavior is discussed. Sport is analyzed as a space in which moral values ​​are constantly strained by interests, group norms, and competitive pressures. It concludes that understanding morality in sport requires integrating philosophical foundations and empirical investigations, recognizing it as a complex and formative ethical terrain.

Published

2025-12-28

How to Cite

F. Reis, G., & M. Carvalho, H. (2025). Moral behavior in sport: an epistemological essay from Kantian ethics to applied moral psychology. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF SPORT PSYCHOLOGY AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT, 1(4). Retrieved from https://www.periodicos.rc.biblioteca.unesp.br/index.php/brajosp/article/view/19938