Epistemic racism in anti-doping research: A call for critical awareness

Abstract

The anti-doping movement is presented with significant challenges, including high-profile inter-agency disputes, claims of inconsistent application of the WADA Code, institutionalized doping, and the emergence of doping-permissive movements. Amid these issues lies a less recognized yet crucial issue of epistemic racism, which can undermine global anti-doping initiatives. Epistemic racism, rooted in culturally biased systems of knowledge production, often privileges Western perspectives while relegating non-Western perspectives. Such bias can perpetuate racial stereotypes and affect anti-doping research and policy implementation. This Commentary explores the concept of epistemic racism, its manifestations, and strategies for mitigation within anti-doping research. A case example of a recent publication is presented to demonstrate how epistemic racism can go undetected and unchallenged, potentially reproducing and reinforcing outdated stereotypes. Overlooked, epistemic racism can have profound ramifications, including deterring aspiring scholars from developing countries, distorting anti-doping policies, and reinforcing racial stereotypes. To counteract this, it is essential to educate researchers on racial biases, adapt methodologies to reduce these biases and increase the inclusion and representation of scholars from developing countries in research and editorial roles. Such measures may foster a more inclusive research environment and directly inform practice, helping anti-doping research and practice become more critically aware.