New and Old Technologies Keep Officials, Ethicists, Debating Questions of Fairness
Feb 8th, 2010 • Posted in: NewsSacramento Bee examines question of when superior equipment constitutes cheating
SACRAMENTO, Calif.
Addressing the problem of steroids in sports is relatively clear cut compared to an emerging ethical dilemma highlighted by the Sacramento Bee: technologically advanced sports equipment that sometimes gives players an edge over their opponents.
The Bee’s Sam McManis writes: “Sacramento native and PGA golfer Scott McCarron’s slam against rival Phil Mickelson for ‘cheating’ with the type of club Mickelson uses highlights the often-changing, and blurred, ethical line concerning athletic performance enhanced through equipment and technology.”
The incident in question centered on a wedge used by Mickelson that has square grooves — actually an old technology that was deemed illegal by the U.S. Golf Association unless the clubs were made before April 1, 1990.
McCarran, according to the Bee, feels that use of the grandfathered equipment constitutes cheating.
While the clubs represent an existing technology that was partially outlawed, emerging technology keeps sports officials scrambling, reports the Bee. Among the dilemmas: drag-reducing swimsuits, high-tech skate blades, and polymer-covered bobsleds.
Sports ethicist Jan Boxhill looks at it this way: “It usually takes one guy to try something, be successful with it, and others follow,” Boxhill told the Bee. “If there’s a golf club they’ll let you use legally, and it helps you, why not use it?”
Source: Sacramento Bee, Feb. 3.
For more information, see: Related Newsline story, Jan. 19 — Related Newsline story, June 8, 2009 — Related Newsline story, Apr. 14, 2008 — Related Newsline story, Apr. 7, 2008 — Related Newsline story, Sep. 17, 2007.
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