New Books in Critical Theory
Jason L. Newton, "Cutover Capitalism: The Industrialization of the Northern Forest" (West Virginia UP, 2024)
Mar 29, 2025
Dr. Jason L. Newton, author of "Cutover Capitalism: The Industrialization of the Northern Forest," dives into the complex industrialization of America's logging communities. He reveals how marginalized rural workers adapted to economic changes in the Northern Forest and the brutal realities they faced as resources dwindled. The conversation highlights labor dynamics, the often-overlooked contributions of diverse workers, and the tension between industrialization and environmental impacts, presenting a captivating historical narrative.
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Quick takeaways
- The concept of 'cutover capitalism' reveals how logging communities adapted economically after resource depletion, emphasizing labor's intersection with environmental and economic dynamics.
- Racial dynamics in the logging industry illustrate historical exploitation and class formation, as perceptions of immigrant workers were influenced by pseudoscientific notions during industrialization.
Deep dives
Understanding Cut Over Capitalism
The concept of 'cut over capitalism' examines how economic value is generated in regions where extensive logging has already occurred. This idea builds on the historical movement of capital westward to exploit valuable natural resources, particularly timber. As valuable trees were depleted, questions arose about the economic activities that could sustain communities in the Northern Forest. The exploration of these dynamics reveals how labor, environment, and economic structures intersect in rural areas post-industrialization.
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