Monopoly-Game Theory.

I had a Korean test today. As a testament to what I have learned over the past week and a half in comparison to what I had compressed into my brain whenever tests were given out during Orientation I think today went much MUCH better. Though my grade is probably floating around a 70% I am happy I was able to at least understand what all of the questions were asking me to do.

After we took the test we played Monopoly. I actually hated this game as a child. It takes too long, the rules are abundant and complicated and in the end whoever is losing ends up being a sourpuss. No one likes to lose so the fact that human beings willing subject themselves to these types of games in the first place allows for only three rational explanations:
1. we are bored to tears. (there is a reason that monopoly rose to popularity during the depression- no one else had anything better to do)
2. we are masochistic
3. we just finished a midterm in Korean class and have 3 hours before we can leave

I said earlier that no one likes to lose, though there are those who do not even like to play. Competition, in the most Darwin sense, is the key to survival. So those who claim to have no sportsmanlike spirit would have probably vanished before passing on "I don't care" genes to their equally uninspired offspring. So, this day in age, where does this lackadaisical attitude for games come from? When did people stop caring about winning?

I understand the importance of parents teaching their children how to play nicely with others. But playing IS part of the equation. Saying "it's just a game" is supposed to relieve the pressure and make losing less of a heartbreak rather than completely eradicate the point of competition.

For me how you play a game is quite parallel of how you approach life. If given a task to perform you must try your best to complete it with 100% accuracy. No cheating, but also, no slacking. Rules are guidelines that allow us all equal footing. Manipulating them to an advantage is stepping outside the boundaries of healthy competition. The same sentiment is shared when people refuse to compete or try their best. I for one would not be good at picking and choosing the instances when I was going to put my full effort forth and when I would just do things half-assed. It is easier, more efficient and just makes sense to always maintain a steady standard of full effort.

I have been taught that there is no prize in winning an unfair fight. I realized today that sportsmanship also goes hand in hand with putting forth a competitive spirit and is not satisfied with a high five at the end of a game.

I am thankful that I can enjoy a game with a balanced drive for winning as well as a realization that it is indeed...just a game.