Peter M. Hopsicker, Ph.D.

My research agenda includes two specific tracks: one in the philosophy of sport and one in the history of sport. In the sport philosophy discipline, and often using the works of Michael Polanyi, I investigate cognition in motor behavior—the differences between “knowing how” (practical knowledge) and “knowing that” (prepositional knowledge). I also examine endurance sport through a pragmatic, experiential lens often using the works of William James and John Dewey. Two other smaller interests in sport philosophy have netted significant publications—specifically sport and spirituality and the nature of the discipline of Sport Philosophy. My other major research interest is in the sport history discipline. Using the Adirondack Park in New York State as a case study, I focus on the historical interaction of environmental law and policy, local recreational development, and international sport. I also study the history of the NFL Super Bowl.