New Books in East Asian Studies
Kate McDonald on Asian Mobility History as Labor History
Jul 29, 2024
In this discussion, Kate McDonald, an Associate Professor of History at UC Santa Barbara, explores Asian mobility from a labor perspective. She examines the history of human-powered transport, particularly rickshaws in Japan, and critiques the narratives of mechanization that overlook worker experiences. McDonald shares insights from her research projects, revealing how transportation has shaped labor movements and economic structures. Additionally, she reflects on the complex interplay of mobility, identity, and historical narratives in the context of colonialism.
01:13:33
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast emphasizes the need to challenge Western-centric narratives in technology, especially regarding the history of mobility and labor in Asia.
- Kate McDonald discusses the importance of human-powered transportation, like the rickshaw, as a vital part of urban life amid modern mechanization.
Deep dives
Critiquing Naval Gazing Scholarship
Many narratives about technology are often shaped by a Western-centric perspective, leading to a self-referential focus that ignores diverse contexts. This tendency, referred to as 'navel gazing scholarship', is highlighted as a significant issue, particularly in rich nations like the United States. The podcast discusses how triumphalist tales of technological progress often oversimplify complex historical realities, such as the enduring use of horses in labor into the 20th century, contrary to common narratives about the rise of the automobile. By broadening the scope of inquiry, we can appreciate the persistence of older technologies and practices that challenge the linear narratives of progress.
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