The Historical Ideal-Type as a Heuristic Device for Academic Storytelling by Sport Scholars

The goal of this research endeavor is to take the previous calls of sport scholars to expand into alternative research approaches (e.g., history, case study, law reviews, philosophy, etc.) and to show how storytelling can be an effective tool through the use of a heuristic device. The present analysis attempts to focus on the usage of the historical ideal-type as a heuristic device for academic storytelling so that scholars within sport studies can possibly become more comfortable in other methodological approaches. To support this goal, an example of a sport-focused historical ideal-type is reviewed along with an ideal-type activity practiced in other disciplines. Finally, the contribution and employment of academic storytelling and historical ideal-types will be promoted as an important tactic to enhance the impact of a scholar’s academic findings and overall writing potential.