Emily Ryall

Dr. Emily Ryall is a world-renowned philosopher specializing in the ethics, governance, and philosophy of sport and play at the University of Gloucestershire, School of Applied Sciences. She holds a PhD in Moral Philosophy (De Montfort University, 2005) and has extensive expertise in critical thinking, sports ethics, and policy development. Her research explores topics such as trans athlete inclusion, technology in officiating, and the philosophical underpinnings of sport’s societal role.

Education:

• PhD: Moral Philosophy, De Montfort University, 2005
• MA: Social Philosophy, UEA, 1999
• PGCE: Physical Education, UWIC, 2002
• BA (Hons): Philosophy and Linguistics, UEA, 1998

Research Interests:

• Philosophical issues in sport governance and ethics
• Play’s role in human development and societal health
• Ethical challenges of technology in sports
• Inclusion and equity in sports participation

Publications: Dr. Ryall has authored/co-authored influential books such as *Philosophy of Sport: Key Questions* and *Critical Thinking for Sports Students*, and contributed to journals like the *International Journal of Transgender Health* and *Sport, Ethics and Philosophy*. Her work bridges interdisciplinary gaps between philosophy, sport science, and social policy.

External Roles: She serves on advisory boards for UK Athletics and BASES, and is an associate editor for the *Journal of the Philosophy of Sport*. Her advocacy includes policy reforms for trans athlete inclusion and ethical governance frameworks in sport.

Grants & Future Work: She has led EU-funded projects on sport governance and is currently researching the ethics of performance-enhancing technology and the philosophical dimensions of play in urban environments.