What is Kinesiology? Historical and Philosophical Insights

Twenty years ago Karl Newell suggested in Quest that the proper name for the field was "kinesiology" and that its proper subject was "physical activity." Yet, despite his success, for many the purpose of the field remains enigmatic. This has led to a lack of clarity in programs, as well as tensions between scientists and humanists in the field. This tension was conveniently summarized by C. P. Snow's famous "two cultures" thesis. Dissonance within the field is born of faulty and unexamined philosophic commitments. This article reviews the historical and contemporary state of kinesiology in an attempt to introduce readers to two of these unexamined philosophic commitments. The first misunderstanding is metaphysical and regards the questions, "What is the nature of kinesis?" The second misunderstanding is epistemological and regards the question, "What counts as knowledge?" Answers to both questions—sometimes implicit, sometimes explicit—have had a great impact on the field. This history deserves further attention.