The philosophy of Emmanuel Kant always felt too abstract and complex to me. That was until England’s shameful performance in the Euros brought his ideas home.
In simple terms, Kant argued that we should act morally regardless of the outcomes, a stance diametrically opposed to utilitarianism, which judges actions by their results rather than intentions.
It was only during England’s dismal run in the finals that I began to appreciate Kant’s reasoning.
I believe many share my view, though few would admit it: despite our hope for an England victory and our cheers for every jammy last-minute goal, it would have been deeply unjust had England triumphed in the final.
For England’s drab style of play, especially given the calibre of our players and the dominance of the Premier League, made watching their matches a joyless experience for the millions who tuned in. Despite boasting some of the world’s best talent, our performances lacked creativity, excitement, and tactical proficiency, largely due to poor management.
Spain’s victory over England was a triumph for football itself. Similarly, lesser teams like Georgia, though not finalists, left with their heads held high, playing the game as it should be played and winning hearts and minds along the way. Let’s face it, Brand England was damaged by the way we played the game that we created.
Like many of my generation, I remember, with pride, the England team of 1996 which lost in the semi-finals – for they played with gusto and guts. Now, I shall expunge the memory of this last tournament.
The lesson from this last sorry month: do things properly.
(The photo is of the team I played for in circa 2018, Pool AFC, sponsored by a wonderful law firm!)
