Doing Things with Numbers: The Quantified Self and the Gamification of Health

Abstract

Software applications are changing our relationship with health. Individuals who
\nintensively self-track their activities and physiological states, the so-called
\n“Quantified Selfers”, think that a data-driven life can enhance their health status.
\nIndeed, recent research has demonstrated the effective utility of some of these
\ndevices. In addition, “gamification” – that is the use of game design elements in
\nnon-game contexts – can serve to increase individuals’ health. Gamification
\nfacilitates and supports our pursuit of goals and appears to enhance
\nperformance. However, while apps seem to support health, there are some risks
\nto be considered: quantification and gamification can foster a neoliberal idea of
\nhealth as a personal responsibility, bracketing the fundamental role played by
\nsocial determinants in shaping health status. Moreover, some health insurance
\ncompanies are rewarding individuals who agree to share their self-tracking data
\nwith them. The risk is that what is an individual option today may become a
\nsocial constraint or requirement tomorrow.