ABSTRACT
In this chapter we detail the methodological processes that underpin the subsequent analyses featured in this book. We explain how Actor Network Theory helped us make meaning of the involvement of various actants in the processes of Olympic inclusion—from the everyday recreational action sport participant, to athletes and their families, to key industry members, to the International Olympic Committee (IOC)—and to understand the shifting and fluid workings of power. We then proceed to detail the longitudinal methodology that spans over a decade of empirical research, including interviews, focus groups, an international survey, archival work, and extensive media analysis, in our efforts to capture the diverse perspectives and experiences of those involved and impacted by Olympic inclusion, and processes of change over time and place. In the last section we briefly discuss aspects of the research process, highlighting some of the key challenges working “with” the IOC and how this informed our thinking on the politics of incorporation.
