Chariots of Fire_Run For A Purpose

Chariots of Fire is a fascinating film that describes the motivations of runners. Eric Liddell and Harold Abrahams are two main characters in this film. Sometimes they’re driven by different motivations.

             
Eric Liddell ran because of approach causes. He stated that he could feel God’s pleasure when he ran. He said that “I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run I feel His pleasure.” This is the way he worshiped God.

                          
 Liddell also faced an approach-approach conflict. Liddell loved running because of his faith. He kept the promise that he would not run on the Sabbath as well because that’s the way he showed his faith to God. In the Olympics Games, Liddell faced the dilemma. He would like to keep his principle and he would like to run as well. However, he made his decision that he would not run on the Sabbath day.

                          
Harold Abrahams actually ran due to avoident causes. He was facing prejudice because he was a Jewish. Normally some people would use negative attitudes towards him. He would like to use running to kick them off.

                           
The dilemma he faced was an approach-avoidance conflict because the results of the run vitally impact him. Victory could help him to prove himself, but lose could undermine his self-esteem. It was hard for him to find the balance between these two consequences.

                           
Liddell was also a great example that how he was driven by the intrinsic motivation. When he talked to the leader of Britain athletes’ team, he said that he loved running and even willing to endure suffers and challenges from relationship and works.

                           
Equity theory was able to explain Abrahams running behaviour as well. As a Jewish, he was willing to run because it gave him back the prestige and respects from others. Especially he was admired by his Sybil and his girlfriend’s brother.