Key facts
- Greg James criticized 'optimisation culture' driven by technology and data.
- Steven Bartlett claimed fitness tracker data showed two glasses of wine had a detrimental effect for three days.
- James encouraged people to join his 'anti-Bartlett cult'.
- Experts are weighing in on the effects of small amounts of alcohol on the body.
- The value of fitness tracker gadgets is being questioned.
Greg James has publicly criticized what he terms 'optimisation culture,' a trend driven by technology and data, particularly fitness trackers. This critique was prompted by comments made by podcast host Steven Bartlett, who claimed that his fitness tracker indicated two glasses of wine had a detrimental effect on him for three days. Bartlett stated that the data on his wearable smart technology Whoop showed that even a modest intake of alcohol negatively impacted his sleep and diet, as well as his dopamine and cortisol levels. James's response included a call for people to join his 'anti-Bartlett cult,' highlighting a growing sentiment against the relentless pursuit of data-driven self-optimization. Experts are now weighing in on the effects of small amounts of alcohol on the body and whether fitness tracker gadgets are worth the price.