JOURNAL ARTICLE

Technologies of the self (-deception): Confidence, optimism and effort of Chinese esports players.

  • Published In: European Journal of Cultural Studies, 2025, v. 28, n. 4. P. 1151 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Lin, Zhongxuan; Zhong, Yifan; Zhao, Yupei 3 of 3

Abstract

This article examines the subjectivity and self-management strategies—termed "technologies of the self"—employed by professional Chinese esports players within the neoliberal context of China’s esports industry. Based on interviews with 30 active and retired male Valorant players, the study identifies three key self-technologies used to navigate career precarity: fluctuating confidence, cruel optimism, and limited effort. These practices help players construct autonomy and legitimacy amid unstable working conditions and societal stigma but may also lead to self-deception and reinforce existing inequalities. The research situates these findings within broader Chinese cultural values, state governance, and neoliberal economic transformations, highlighting how esports players negotiate identity and survival in a highly competitive, regulated environment.

Additional Information

  • Source:European Journal of Cultural Studies. 2025/08, Vol. 28, Issue 4, p1151
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Sports and Leisure
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:1367-5494
  • DOI:10.1177/13675494241304257
  • Accession Number:186840206
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of European Journal of Cultural Studies is the property of Sage Publications Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Looking to go deeper into this topic? Look for more articles on EBSCOhost.