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Analytical attractions and the techno-continuum: Conceptualising data obsessions and consequences in elite sport

Kohe, Geoff, Purdy, Laura G. (2018) Analytical attractions and the techno-continuum: Conceptualising data obsessions and consequences in elite sport. Sport, Education & Society, 24 (7). pp. 742-755. ISSN 1357-3322. (doi:10.1080/13573322.2018.1467398) (KAR id:66783)

Abstract

The proliferation of sports science and technological innovation within performance settings has precipitated the generation of increasing volumes of data to aid athletes. Copious data production has also perpetuated the privileging of scientific information, and a ‘thirst’ for ‘more data’ as an unproblematic ‘truth’. Of significance is not merely the use of technology for the production of data-for-data’s sake, or the utility of data for a greater cause (e.g., the good of the team), but the quest for personalised data for individual athletes to be analysed, and reflected upon ad nauseam. Furthering scholarship on disciplining bodies, we argue that increased technological consumption, and the related excessive quantification of athletes’ bodies via data production, adds further insecurity into performance sports work. Finally, attention is given to the cultural step-change new techno-dispositions may now present.

Item Type: Article
DOI/Identification number: 10.1080/13573322.2018.1467398
Uncontrolled keywords: sport technology; data analytics; techno-criticism; organisational politics
Divisions: Divisions > Division of Natural Sciences > Sport and Exercise Sciences
Depositing User: Geoffery Kohe
Date Deposited: 18 Apr 2018 14:20 UTC
Last Modified: 09 Dec 2022 02:44 UTC
Resource URI: https://kar.kent.ac.uk/id/eprint/66783 (The current URI for this page, for reference purposes)

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