Against the Rules with Michael Lewis Episode 1: What’s Wrong with Eric?
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Sep 24, 2024 
Eric Simons, a high school math teacher and author of *The Secret Lives of Sports Fans*, teams up with Dan Wann, a psychology professor known for his research on fandom. They dive into the emotional rollercoaster that sports fans experience, revealing the fascinating psychology behind their behavior. The duo examines the complexity of fan loyalty, the rituals they engage in, and their surprising political engagement. They also highlight how technology is reshaping the fandom experience, uncovering the quirky nuances that come with cheering for a team.
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Miserable Game Experience
- Eric Simons, after a frustrating game, questioned his sports fandom while on a train.
- He observed others enjoying their Saturday night, unlike his miserable experience.
The Irrationality of Fandom
- Sports fans often exhibit irrational behavior, raising questions about their motivations.
- Eric Simons, a math teacher and writer, decided to investigate this phenomenon.
Lack of Research
- Eric Simons searched for scientific research on sports fans but found little information.
- He was surprised by the lack of dedicated research in this popular and widespread area.
