New Books in Critical Theory

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.

Tiffany D. Joseph, an associate professor at Northeastern University, dives deep into the intersection of race, immigration, and healthcare. She reveals the stark disparities faced by immigrant communities in the U.S., particularly in Massachusetts' healthcare system. Joseph discusses how policies like the Affordable Care Act, despite their progressive intent, often leave undocumented immigrants behind. She shares poignant stories from Brazilian, Dominican, and Salvadoran communities, urging a reevaluation of healthcare access and the urgent need for inclusive reforms.

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.

William Max Nelson, Associate Professor of History at the University of Toronto, dives into the unsettling intersections of race, eugenics, and citizenship during the Enlightenment. He argues that while emancipatory ideals emerged, they were deeply intertwined with colonialism and discrimination. The conversation explores the origins of eugenics, exclusionary practices targeting marginalized groups, and the historical evolution of citizenship definitions. Nelson emphasizes the enduring legacies of Enlightenment biopolitics and their shocking implications for modern societal issues.

Alisha Ali, an expert in oppression's impact on mental health, joins Bradley Lewis, a psychiatric innovator with a passion for the arts, and Jazmine Russell, a leader in mad studies and critical psychology. They delve into transformative ideas around mad studies, advocating for anti-sanist perspectives that challenge traditional psychiatric paradigms. The conversation touches on the importance of inclusion, the power of language in mental health narratives, and the need for diverse literature that reflects various societal experiences, all while promoting collaboration and activism.

Anita Say Chan, an Associate Professor at the University of Illinois, dives deep into the connection between eugenics and today's big tech, highlighting how past discriminatory practices impact current data collection and surveillance. She discusses the historical roots of data profiling and its discriminatory effects on marginalized groups. The conversation also touches on Hull House's influence on labor rights and the limitations of AI in capturing the richness of human communication. Chan emphasizes the need for alternative data practices rooted in social justice.

In this discussion, Thomas Sutherland, a digital media lecturer and author, delves into the intriguing world of philosopher Peter Sloterdijk. They dissect Sloterdijk's thoughts on cynicism and its relevance today. Sutherland explores the concept of spheres, highlighting our interconnected existence. He emphasizes the idea of the 'practising life' to reflect on self-transformation. Together, they analyze how philosophy can serve as a form of wisdom, balancing its strengths and weaknesses in navigating contemporary life.

In this engaging discussion, Matt Mahmoudi, an assistant professor at Cambridge University, delves into the intersection of technology, migration, and racial capitalism. He critiques how tech companies bolster surveillance at Europe's borders while undermining the autonomy of migrant communities. Mahmoudi highlights grassroots initiatives by Syrian women in Berlin to combat misinformation and reveals the darker role of data brokers in tracking immigrant activities. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need to rethink technology's impact on marginalized populations and advocates for community-driven resistance.

Amanda M. Greenwell, an Associate Professor of English at Central Connecticut State University, explores the concept of the 'child gaze' in her work. She discusses how this narrative strategy critiques societal norms across American literature, from James Baldwin to Toni Morrison. The conversation dives into how children's perspectives can challenge power structures and reshape narratives around race, class, and identity. Greenwell also highlights the dynamic interplay of surveillance and resistance, illustrating the profound impact of a child's gaze on literature and society.