New Books in Critical Theory

In this engaging discussion, Mimi Thi Nguyen, a Professor of Gender and Women's Studies known for her insightful critiques of beauty and power, explores her latest book, The Promise of Beauty. She delves into the political dimensions of beauty during crises, revealing how it can inspire action and critique social injustices. Nguyen shares compelling anecdotes about trauma and resistance, linking beauty to themes of hope amid despair. The conversation highlights beauty's transformative potential, framing it as both a tool for empowerment and a challenge to oppressive systems.

Rebecca Zorach, an art historian and professor at Northwestern University, dives into the intricate relationship between art, land, and America’s racial history. She discusses how temporary monuments challenge societal narratives and the role of museums in shaping identity. Zorach reflects on her own family history and explores the racial dynamics tied to public art. Highlighting contemporary artists, she examines their works that confront issues of White supremacy and environmental justice, urging a rethinking of land art and community identity.

Adi Saleem, an Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan exploring race and religion, and Shanon Shah, a Visiting Research Fellow at King’s College London specializing in contemporary Islam, dive into their new book, 'Queer Muslims, Queer Jews.' They discuss the complexities of queer identities intersecting with faith and race, the impact of colonial legacies on gender, and the role of queer solidarity in socio-political conflicts. They also challenge prevailing narratives around anti-Semitism and emphasize the need for inclusivity in historical and future queer discourses.

Ståle Holgersen, Senior Lecturer in Human Geography at Stockholm University, dives into the profound interconnection between economic and ecological crises under capitalism. He argues these crises are not anomalies but central to capitalism’s operation. Holgersen critiques common views on crises, stressing they reinforce the status quo rather than present opportunities for change. He also discusses the socio-economic disparities highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic and advocates for ecosocialism, challenging listeners to envision a historical exception to ongoing turmoil.

Sam Wetherell, a Senior Lecturer at the University of York, discusses his book, Liverpool and the Unmaking of Britain. He reveals how Liverpool's history reflects broader themes of obsolescence, state indifference, and community resilience. The conversation explores the city's role in trade, multiculturalism, and the impact of containerization on dock labor, highlighting the struggles of marginalized groups. Wetherell emphasizes the city's dual narrative of despair and solidarity, portraying Liverpool as a microcosm of contemporary political and social dynamics.

The podcast tackles the intersection of cancel culture and historical memory, focusing on the removal of notable military figures from records. It discusses the psychological implications of erasure on marginalized communities, highlighting feelings of anxiety and shame. The conversation delves into the dual nature of cancel culture, exploring its potential for social justice alongside its silencing effects. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of community resilience and creative expression in confronting systemic biases.

Bruno Leipold, a Fellow in political theory at LSE, delves into the intricate ties between Karl Marx's thought and republicanism in his new book. He challenges mainstream views by revealing Marx's evolving relationship with republican ideals, highlighting its impact on his critiques of power and capitalism. Leipold argues that democratic institutions were essential to Marx's vision of freedom, exploring his critiques of the 1848 French Republic and the significance of civic freedoms. The discussion also reflects on the Paris Commune's role in shaping Marx's political philosophy amidst contemporary debates.

Atiya Husain, an Associate Professor of Africana Studies at Williams College, explores the intersections of race, Islam, and terrorism. She analyzes how FBI Most Wanted posters shape our understanding of racial identity, particularly focusing on Assata Shakur's unique categorization. Husain reveals the complexities of how Muslims are often racialized in ambiguous ways while Shakur stands out due to her visibility as a Black revolutionary. Drawing on Black Studies, she challenges conventional narratives and emphasizes the need for nuanced discussions about race and representation.

Wolfgang Streeck, former director at the Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies, dives into the fractures between elites and the public in democracy. He discusses the rise of populism as a reaction to centralized governance and how educational divides exacerbate these tensions. The conversation touches on immigration challenges, the influence of U.S. foreign policy on Europe, and the need for a more equitable global system. Streeck’s insights from his book highlight the urgent need to address the crisis of globalism.

Musa al-Gharbi, sociologist and assistant professor at Stony Brook University, tackles compelling questions about social capitalism and its disconnect from true equality. He critiques the 'symbolic capital elite' in his new book, exploring how their good intentions often clash with real-world outcomes. The discussion dives into the political divide among medical professionals and examines the evolving meaning of 'wokeness,' illustrating the cultural tensions between social justice aspirations and elite values. Al-Gharbi's insights challenge listeners to rethink their understanding of privilege and progress.