Critical Overview of Technological Enhancement in Sport

Ryall, Emily S ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6050-4353 (2025) Critical Overview of Technological Enhancement in Sport. In: The Routledge Handbook of Philosophy of Games. Routledge, pp. 346-359. ISBN 9781138229105 (In Press)

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Abstract

This chapter offers a critical overview of technological enhancement in sport, defining it broadly from basic implements to advanced systems. Technology is argued as a prerequisite for sport, becoming increasingly significant for commercial and entertainment purposes. The chapter outlines various typologies and functions, including landscape, implement, medical, movement, self, and adjudication technologies, serving constitutive, harm prevention, and performance enhancement functions. Technology enables games and enhances them by affecting skill display and spectator experience. However, it can also lead to unintended consequences like the 'revenge effect' and the Peltzman effect. Concerns around fairness arise with prohibited technologies like performance-enhancing swimsuits and prosthetic limbs. The chapter explores the ethical complexities of technology affecting athletes directly, such as doping and the 'technological attitude' which instrumentalises the body. Looking ahead, it considers the impact of genetic and bionic technologies, raising questions about the definition of the human athlete, as well as the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the rise of esports. The chapter concludes by suggesting a potential future shift towards a more aesthetic and experiential appreciation of sport, arguing that technology is inextricably linked to the essence of game-playing.

Item Type:	Book Section
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > B Philosophy (General) G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GV Recreation Leisure G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GV1199 Games and amusements G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GV Recreation Leisure > GV557 Sports
Divisions:	Schools and Research Institutes > School of Education and Science
Depositing User:	Emily Ryall
Date Deposited:	01 May 2025 10:14
Last Modified:	01 May 2025 13:41
URI:	https://eprints.glos.ac.uk/id/eprint/14994

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