New Books in Critical Theory

In this discussion, Steven Swarbrick and Jean-Thomas Tremblay, co-authors of 'Negative Life: The Cinema of Extinction,' delve into the intersections of cinema, philosophy, and ecocriticism. They challenge traditional ecological narratives, exploring themes of extinction and isolation in film, particularly through Freud's ideas of negation. The conversation highlights how queer theory and psychoanalysis reshape our understanding of environmental storytelling, using Paul Schrader's 'First Reformed' as a poignant example, and articulating a new vision of 'negative life' in cinema.

Lauren D. Olsen, an Assistant Professor at Temple University and author of "Curricular Injustice," discusses the troubling gap between the intent and impact of humanities in medical education. She reveals how U.S. medical schools perpetuate inequalities despite attempts to integrate social sciences aimed at fostering empathy. Olsen critiques how students are trained to individualize systemic issues, leading to burnout and avoidance of advocacy. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need to rethink curricula to genuinely address structural disparities and promote health equity.

Jordan S. Carroll, author of "Speculative Whiteness: Science Fiction and the Alt-Right," dives deep into the intersection of speculative fiction and white supremacy. He discusses how alt-right figures interpret sci-fi as a space for white male dominance and envision dystopian futures filled with Aryan ideals. Carroll highlights the ideological battles within the genre, addressing the complexities of whiteness and post-humanism. He warns against leveraging science fiction for exclusionary politics and calls for a more inclusive narrative that represents all identities.

Serene Khader, a political philosopher and professor at Brooklyn College, explores the pitfalls of modern feminism in her book 'Faux Feminism.' She critiques the popular 'girlboss' culture, emphasizing that personal successes do not equate to collective progress. Khader debunks myths around freedom and individualism, advocating for a more inclusive feminism that addresses global and intersectional issues. She calls for rethinking self-care as a communal responsibility and highlights the need to decolonize feminist discourse for greater equity.

Carrie J. Preston, a professor at Boston University and expert in theater and racial justice, discusses the concept of 'complicit participation' in performances addressing racial issues. She critiques how white liberal audiences engage with antiracist theater, revealing the gaps between performative allyship and genuine action. Preston shares insights from notable works like 'Hamilton' and 'The Blacks,' exploring audience dynamics and the emotional complexities of allyship. She emphasizes the need for authentic engagement to foster meaningful change.

Nick Bernards, an Associate Professor of Global Sustainable Development at the University of Warwick, delves into the intricate relationship between financialization and capitalism. He challenges the notion that speculation has replaced production as the main economic driver, emphasizing the critical role of labor in understanding this shift. Bernards also critiques the commodification of natural resources, especially water, and highlights the ethical implications of financial practices in the Global South, pushing for a reevaluation of finance's role in societal development.

Andrew Stone Higgins, author of 'Higher Education for All,' explores the California Master Plan's ambitious yet flawed legacy in providing free education. He delves into its roots in Cold War liberalism and how it perpetuated racial inequalities. The podcast discusses key events, including the Third World Liberation Front Strike, and highlights the significant role of student activism in pushing for reforms. Higgins also examines the impact of student athletes and organizations like the Black Student Union in advocating for diversity and equity within higher education in California.

Whitney Kemble, Liaison Librarian at the University of Toronto Scarborough, dives into the contentious landscape of Canadian public libraries in her latest work. Discussing critical neutrality policies, she unpacks the protests and controversies that have shaped library spaces since 1960. Kemble examines how the myth of neutrality often undermines marginalized communities and advocates for transformative practices that prioritize inclusivity and social justice. Her insights shed light on the evolving role of libraries in fostering community care and addressing sensitive issues.

Laure Astourian, an associate professor at Bentley University and author of "The Ethnographic Optic," delves into the fascinating intersection of ethnography and 1960s French cinema. She explores how filmmakers like Jean Rouch, Chris Marker, and Alain Resnais shifted their focus from colonial subjects to introspective representations of urban France amid decolonization. The conversation illuminates the 'ethnographic optic' these directors employed, revealing societal complexities and offering a fresh take on national identity through iconic films.

Anthony Grasso, an assistant professor at Rutgers focusing on American political development, discusses his book 'Dual Justice.' He explores the stark differences in how street and corporate crimes are punished in the U.S. Grasso links this disparity to historical ideologies, including eugenics, and reveals how these ideas shaped modern justice practices. He examines critical moments like the 1929 crash that heightened public awareness of corporate wrongdoing and advocates for a more holistic approach to justice that addresses systemic issues.