New Books in Critical Theory

Ryan Tan Wander, an Assistant Professor of English at Valdosta State University and author of "Settler Tenses: Queer Time and Literatures of the American West," dives into the intricate connections between queerness, nationalism, and settler colonialism in American literature. He discusses how late 19th and early 20th-century texts challenge traditional narratives of masculinity, exploring 'settler tenses' and 'queer time.' Wander emphasizes the significance of overlooked authors and integrates queer studies with settler colonial theory to unravel complexities in identity and belonging.

Michael Tondre, a cultural historian and English professor at Stony Brook University, dives deep into the complex legacy of oil in modern life. He reveals how oil shapes selfhood and societal norms, critiquing simplistic narratives of its discovery through the lens of race and exploitation. Tondre discusses the cultural impacts of oil on literature and art, highlighting works by Proust and Antonioni. He also explores the innovative Museum of Carbon Ruins, emphasizing collective action for a post-oil future amid climate change challenges.

August H. Nimtz, a political science professor at the University of Minnesota, and Kyle A. Edwards, a curriculum administrator and class struggle researcher, explore the interplay of revolutionary liberalism and communism. They delve into the significance of historical figures like Marx and Douglass during the Civil War. Their discussion connects these ideas to modern movements like Black Lives Matter. They also critique how historical narratives, such as the 1619 Project, overlook class struggles, emphasizing the importance of grassroots activism over traditional politics.

Alva Gotby is a London-based writer and tenant organizer, known for her works on housing justice, including "Feeling at Home." In this engaging discussion, Gotby delves into how housing influences our well-being and the concept of dignity. She critiques traditional housing solutions and emphasizes the emotional toll of instability, particularly on marginalized groups. The conversation also tackles tenant power, the health implications of poor housing, and the transformative potential of community care beyond nuclear family models.

Arthur Bradley, a professor of comparative literature at Lancaster University and author renowned for his works on political erasure, dives into the intricacies of theater and sovereignty. He discusses how theatricality shapes our understanding of political authority, reflecting on significant props like thrones and their historical meanings. The conversation also touches on political thaumaturgy—where wonder and spectacle intertwine politics with performance. Bradley shares insights on mentoring young scholars and the evolution of academic writing sparked by the 2020 lockdown.

James Malazita, Associate Professor of Science and Technology Studies and Game Design at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, delves into the cultural intersections of the Unreal game engine through feminist, race, and queer theories. He critiques the platform studies framework, exploring its sociocultural limits and the complex relationship between technology and identity. Malazita highlights issues of racial representation in game design and advocates for a more inclusive critical approach, urging scholars to examine gaming's broader social implications.

Cordelia Fine, a professor of the History and Philosophy of Science at the University of Melbourne, challenges entrenched beliefs about sex and gender through her book, *Testosterone Rex*. She debunks the myths linking testosterone to masculinity and examines how societal expectations shape our understanding of gender roles. Fine discusses the complexities of sexual selection and critiques evolutionary psychology's simplistic views. She advocates for a nuanced approach to gender that accounts for biology and cultural context, previewing her upcoming work on gender equality.

Jennifer Greenburg, a political geographer and lecturer at the University of Sheffield, discusses her book, which examines the intersection of military humanitarianism and feminist discourse post-9/11. She reveals how U.S. military strategies transformed to incorporate women in combat roles, raising questions about imperial feminism. Greenburg critiques the romanticized narratives around women's rights in warfare and highlights the conflicting dynamics between gender, military training, and humanitarian efforts, emphasizing the need to reconsider traditional feminist perspectives.

Matthew McManus, a Lecturer in Political Science at the University of Michigan, discusses his book on liberal socialism. He traces its roots from early thinkers like Wollstonecraft and Paine to contemporary theorists. Key topics include the critique of modern capitalism, the intertwined nature of equality and liberty, and the flaws of meritocracy. McManus argues for a revitalized liberal socialism, encouraging individual development while addressing economic and racial inequalities. His insights offer a hopeful vision for blending socialist principles with liberal ideals.

Alasia Nuti, a Senior Lecturer in Political Theory at the University of York, discusses her co-authored work on political liberalism. She explores the dynamics of containing illiberal views in democratic societies, emphasizing the balance between inclusion and core values. The conversation delves into the rise of right-wing populism and the responsibilities of citizens in defending democracy. Nuti highlights the role of social media in democratic backsliding and advocates for a proactive approach to uphold liberal ideals in contemporary political discourse.