That concussion sentiment is very, very recent. Hard hits in football and boxing were absolutely celebrated as a show of dominance. They still are, just with obligatory lip service paid to hoping the player is ok.
I don't think disdain is the right word. Disappointment can certainly come into play, but look at any serious injury on the court or the field. What happens when the player is able to limp off, or is even carried off? Applause, sometimes a standing ovation, for the player's physical sacrifice.
I believe this is tied into the same primal urges that make us love a compelling war movie (we used to celebrate war much more than we now do as well), or want to work 16 hour days for the chance at striking it rich.
If we're talking about "celebrating", lip service is all I can think of that fits the bill. People enjoying it in the privacy of their own thoughts isn't the same thing.
> look at any serious injury on the court or the field.
That's why I was asking for counter-example. I don't have this experience. I was hoping for, possibly, media coverage or maybe fan blog posts or videos.
> Applause, sometimes a standing ovation, for the player's physical sacrifice.
If I were to witness this from afar, I would have no idea what the applause is for, so, again, I'm looking for that evidence. A more charitable interpretation would be that the applause is due to relief that the injury could be walked away from or even gesture of support in recovery.
I don't think disdain is the right word. Disappointment can certainly come into play, but look at any serious injury on the court or the field. What happens when the player is able to limp off, or is even carried off? Applause, sometimes a standing ovation, for the player's physical sacrifice.
I believe this is tied into the same primal urges that make us love a compelling war movie (we used to celebrate war much more than we now do as well), or want to work 16 hour days for the chance at striking it rich.