Final answer:
David Epstein is claiming that changes in sports performance result from a mix of genetic factors and environmental conditions, highlighting the necessity to consider the interplay of both genetics and environment to fully understand sports performance. Epstein's discussion includes epigenetics and the potential role of technologies like CRISPR in future athletic advancements.
Step-by-step explanation:
David Epstein, in addressing the changes in sports performance, suggests that it is a complex interplay of both genetic factors and environmental conditions. He claims that while the concept of a "sports gene" does play a role, it is not the sole factor in performance change. Instead, a combination of genetic predisposition, technological advancements, cultural influences, and environmental factors contribute to the differences we see in athletic performances. Recognizing the debate between genetics (nature) and training/environment (nurture), Epstein asserts that both sides provide a comprehensive understanding when it comes to sports performance. Additionally, the field of epigenetics shows us that environmental influences can lead to phenotypical changes that are inheritable, further complicating the debate between biology and geography.
Epstein's view is that it's necessary to consider both genetics and the environment to fully understand sports performance. The discussion is not just about a binary choice between nature and nurture; rather, it's about how the two interact and influence one another. Considering both sides of the argument is essential due to the ongoing debate in the realm of gene editing and its ethical implications in sports and beyond. The development of CRISPR technology, for instance, highlights the tangible impacts of genetic modification which may one day alter sports by enhancing athletic capabilities or preventing injuries.