Cognitive Dissonance and the Nazi Olympics

This chapter explores cognitive dissonance through the lens of the Berlin Olympics in 1936, examining the conflict between sportsmanship and the political implications of participating in a Nazi regime event. It follows journalist Dorothy Thompson's intense pursuit of an interview with Adolf Hitler, shedding light on how personal perceptions and societal pressures shaped the narrative of that era. Through historical context and personal anecdotes, the chapter highlights the moral dilemmas faced by athletes and the seductive nature of authoritarian leadership.