Martial Arts as a Form of Art: Debunking Meryl Streep's Stance

Recently, actress Meryl Streep shared her opinion that Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is not an art form. However, her statement overlooks the diverse and rich cultural and philosophical backgrounds that underpin various martial arts traditions, making them far more than just self-defense or combat techniques. This essay aims to debunk Streep's stance by exploring the multi-faceted nature of martial arts and why they deserve to be recognized as legitimate art forms.

Introduction to Martial Arts

Martial, derived from Latin martialis, meaning 'of Mars,' the Roman god of war succinctly captures the spirit that infuses these practices. Art, on the other hand, is defined as 'the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination,' suggesting that these practices are not just combat techniques but also expressions of skill, discipline, and philosophy.

Cultural Diversity and Martial Arts

Martial arts across the globe exhibit a remarkable diversity. Immigrants from various countries have brought their martial arts traditions to the forefront of the UFC and MMA scene, offering a rich tapestry of styles and philosophies. Contrary to Hollywood, the UFC is a stark representation of global cultural diversity. Styles like Jiu-Jitsu, Karate, and Taekwondo are rooted in cultural practices and philosophies that date back centuries.

History and Philosophy of Martial Arts

The foundations of martial arts are deeply rooted in philosophy, not just in the East but in the West as well. Consider Judo, developed by Jigoro Kano in Japan, which emphasizes Budo, a broader concept that includes both the practice of martial arts and the pursuit of moral and spiritual development. The “Book of Five Rings” by Miyamoto Musashi offers profound insights into strategy and adaptability, while the Art of War by Sun Tzu discusses the strategic use of force and intelligence beyond brute strength.

Modern Perspectives and Adaptability

Martial arts also reflect adaptability and evolution in response to changing needs and contexts. Take, for instance, Pankration; this ancient Greek combination martial art led the way in integrating various fighting styles. Similarly, Bruce Lee's incorporation of different styles to develop his unique fighting style Jing Wu Quan ( muscles of the immovable sphere) demonstrates the art of adaptation. Lee's philosophy of being 'like water,' adaptable to any situation, can be seen as a precursor to the modern concept of MMA.

MMA, often dismissed as a crude mishmash of skills, actually reflects the evolution of martial arts in contemporary times. It is a mix of the best techniques from various disciplines, tailored to individual fighters. This reflects the rich and dynamic nature of martial arts, which continue to merge and evolve, much like other art forms. The art doesn't always aim to be useful but explores possibilities within given frames. This aspect of MMA makes it a unique and valid form of art.

Conclusion

The recognition of martial arts as art forms shouldn't be based on an outdated notion of art. Instead, it should be appreciated for the skill, philosophy, and adaptability that they embody. These traditions, rooted in diverse cultures and philosophies, offer a rich and evolving expression of human creativity. It is time to recognize MMA, alongside other martial arts, as a legitimate art form that deserves the same respect and recognition as other forms of artistic expression.