University of Missouri-St. Louis Prof. Brownell on Olympics

The transcript discusses the significance of the Olympics for China, highlighting its role in enhancing China's global image and soft power, especially post-COVID. It examines the interaction between China and international actors through the Olympics, and the IOC's evolving stance on human rights. The transcript also explores the trend of athletes switching citizenship to represent China, marking a departure from past practices. Additionally, it addresses the IOC's involvement in athlete issues and its efforts towards gender representation, despite facing criticism.

What was a major goal for China in hosting the 2022 Olympic Games?

• To showcase new sports

• To control COVID and improve its image

• To increase tourism

• To introduce new technology

What was the significance of the 2008 Olympics for China?

• It was China's first time hosting the Olympics

• It marked China's emergence on the world stage

• It was the first time China won a gold medal

• It introduced new sports to the Olympics

How did the International Olympic Committee respond to criticisms regarding human rights?

• By ignoring the criticisms

• By reducing the number of participating countries

• By banning countries with poor human rights records

• By including a human rights clause in future host city contracts

What is a notable change in the 2022 Olympics regarding athletes representing China?

• Athletes born abroad representing China

• Introduction of new sports

• Reduction in the number of events

• Increased number of local athletes

What was the IOC's stance on the Peng Shuai situation?

• They banned China from the Olympics

• They took a bold step by getting involved

• They ignored the situation

• They issued a public apology