Sport, Science, and Complexity: A Pedagogical and Methodological Reflection

The main aim of this study is to reflect on sport, science, and complexity by sketching a genuine pedagogical perspective resulting from the analysis of a new epistemological proposal within the philosophy of science and education: the theory of complexity. This pedagogical perspective, which is based on hermeneutics, shows that pedagogy, understood in a theoretical as well as in a practical sense, is a fundamental cornerstone within the scientific field of sport and physical activity. In so doing, this study shows that pedagogical knowledge is relevant in the abovementioned scientific field. It helps sport professionals develop a reflexive and critical attitude towards the practices related to sport and physical activity. In this sense, pedagogy becomes an intrinsic component of sport science, which calls for the need of ethics within this science and for better-prepared professionals able to fight the negative aspects of contemporary sports, such as, alienation and commodification.