New Books in Critical Theory

Renay Richardson, an author and podcaster dedicated to making history accessible, teams up with Arisa Loomba, a PhD candidate focusing on migration and imperial history. They discuss the unexpected legacies of slavery in everyday items like gym treadmills and denim jeans. The conversation dives into how influential figures in science relied on exploitive systems while highlighting biases in modern maternal health. Tying it all together, they expose the connections between prominent football clubs and the transatlantic slave trade, urging listeners to rethink history's hidden narratives.

Elizabeth Popp Berman, a scholar from the University of Michigan, discusses her book exploring how economic reasoning reshaped U.S. public policy. She highlights the shift from equality to efficiency from the 1960s to the 1980s, detailing its impact on healthcare, antitrust, and environmental policy. Berman links this shift to military influences and critiques the limitations of cost-benefit analyses in shaping social programs. With rising progressive movements, she offers insights into navigating policy debates for more ambitious change.

Michael Patrick Lynch is a Provost Professor of the Humanities and an expert on the philosophy of truth and democracy, authoring 'On Truth in Politics.' He delves into the concept of bullshit in politics, analyzing its impacts on democracy and public discourse. Lynch discusses the dangers of misinformation and the urgent need to defend truth against authoritarianism. Highlighting how digital algorithms influence our understanding, he emphasizes the importance of awareness in combating political bullshit and engaging in meaningful dialogue.

Carl Rhodes, Professor of Organization Studies at the University of Technology Sydney, critiques the myths surrounding billionaires in his latest work. He dismantles the narratives that portray them as ‘heroes’ and ‘generous benefactors,’ examining how these falsehoods perpetuate economic inequality. Rhodes emphasizes the alarming parallels between today's billionaires and historical feudal lords, urging for political action toward justice. The discussion also touches on the fragility of democracy and the troubling transformation of platforms like Twitter into tools of division.

Noëlle McAfee, a Professor of Philosophy at Emory University, discusses her book, exploring how fears of societal breakdown affect democracy. She highlights the challenges of emotional engagement in political discourse and the necessity of embracing uncertainty. McAfee emphasizes the importance of honest communication in fostering intimacy and bridging divides, while also tackling the psychological relief that comes from overcoming fear and demonization. Additionally, she critiques traditional psychoanalytic theories surrounding mourning and its chaotic intertwining with human destructiveness.

In this conversation, Robert G. Morrison, Professor of History of Science at Bowdoin College, sheds light on his book about the vibrant intellectual exchanges between the Ottoman Empire and Renaissance Europe. He reveals how multilingual Jewish scholars acted as crucial intermediaries, facilitating the flow of knowledge in astronomy, astrology, and philosophy. Morrison discusses the economic value of manuscripts and how this transactional exchange shaped scientific and cultural advancements, creating a rich tapestry of diverse Renaissance thought.

Jyotsna G. Singh, Professor Emerita of English at Michigan State University, dives into the intersection of Shakespeare and postcolonial theory. She discusses how colonial narratives shape interpretations of Shakespeare's works, particularly through characters like Caliban. Singh reflects on her journey as an Indian scholar and explores racial diversity in early modern London. She also highlights the impact of Indian cinema on Shakespearean themes, illustrated by adaptations like 'Haider,' showcasing the rich cultural dialogue that redefines these classic narratives.

Myles Lennon, Dean's Assistant Professor at Brown University and author of 'Subjects of the Sun,' dives into the complexities of solar energy's role in racial capitalism. He discusses how renewable energy initiatives can perpetuate exploitation in marginalized communities while appearing virtuous. Lennon critiques the disconnect between clean energy ideals and the realities faced by low-income neighborhoods, urging a focus on local sensory experiences and labor rights. He also highlights the importance of community engagement in achieving equitable energy transitions that prioritize social justice.

John Eldevik, a Professor of History at Hamilton College, delves into the captivating legend of Prester John, a mythical Christian king from the Middle Ages. He discusses how a forged letter ignited European imaginations and prompted discussions on religious conflict and global Christian identity. Eldevik examines manuscript culture, revealing how texts shaped perceptions of the East during the Crusades. Alongside Morteza Hajizadeh, he also highlights intricate storytelling traditions that influenced medieval narratives. It's a fascinating exploration of how fantasies can reflect and influence real-world issues.

In this engaging conversation, Kevin Guyan, a researcher from the University of Edinburgh, unpacks themes from his upcoming book, revealing how LGBTQ equality in the UK is constrained by societal classifications. He dives into the 'rainbow trap,' highlighting the tension between demand for inclusion and the necessity of fitting into categorizing systems. Topics include the impact of algorithms on dating apps, the portrayal of queer lives in film and TV, and the complexities of trans representation in sports, all advocating for more nuanced understandings of identity.