New Books in Critical Theory

Adam Greenfield, author of "Lifehouse: Taking Care of Ourselves in a World on Fire," discusses navigating crises through collective resilience and community organizing. He explores the concept of 'lifehouses'—community resource hubs drawing inspiration from movements like Occupy Sandy and the Black Panthers. Greenfield emphasizes the importance of mutual aid networks and grassroots initiatives, proving they can empower communities amid chaos. His insights highlight how we can reclaim agency and foster meaningful change in an age of escalating challenges.

In this engaging discussion, Vanessa Christina Wills, Associate Professor of Philosophy at George Washington University and author of "Marx's Ethical Vision," dives deep into the complexities of Marx’s thought. She tackles whether Marx has a coherent ethical vision despite his critiques of morality and capitalism. Wills discusses the role of alienation and commodity fetishism, linking them to human freedom and class struggle. Her insights highlight how understanding Marx's method can inform contemporary efforts for societal change and personal growth.

Kevin Sanson, a Professor of Media Studies at Queensland University of Technology, unpacks the shifting landscape of Hollywood in his latest work. He discusses how mobile technology is reshaping film production, fostering global networks while impacting labor dynamics. Sanson highlights the critical roles of below-the-line workers and location specialists, revealing their challenges amid this evolution. He also addresses the implications of collective bargaining and the urgency of addressing labor issues in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, introducing innovative solutions for a changing industry.

Delve into the profound insights of James Baldwin as he confronts the complexities of racism in America. Explore the psychological defense mechanisms in his characters, revealing their struggles with vulnerability and denial. Baldwin's call for truth-telling emphasizes the need for open dialogue and deeper engagement with societal issues. His legacy challenges both Black and white Americans to face uncomfortable truths while advocating for fundamental transformation. Experience how Baldwin's vision remains relevant in today’s discussions surrounding race and identity.

Jamie Furlong, a Research Fellow at the University of Westminster, and Will Jennings, Professor at the University of Southampton, dive into the evolving electoral landscape of England and Wales. They discuss the concept of 'left behindness' and its impact on voting behavior, especially in light of Brexit. The conversation highlights shifting dynamics in urban areas, demographic changes in places like Lincolnshire, and how these factors influence party support. Their analysis offers crucial insights for understanding the future of UK politics.

Sharad Chari, an Associate Professor of Geography at UC Berkeley and the author of "Apartheid Remains," discusses the intricate history of urban planning in South Africa, highlighting the oppressive fantasies of apartheid-era architects. He delves into the resilient resistance of marginalized groups in Durban against these racialized structures. Chari also explores the lingering effects of apartheid on contemporary urban life, the role of biopolitics in racial capitalism, and the importance of youth activism in the struggle for social justice.

Theo Williams, a Lecturer in social history at the University of Glasgow, dives into the rich history of black radicalism and its pivotal role in shaping British socialism before decolonisation. He discusses influential figures like George Padmore and C.L.R. James, highlighting their contributions to anti-colonial efforts. The podcast explores the tensions between these activists and dominant groups like the CPGB, revealing how their activism redefined leftist politics. Williams urges listeners to rethink this legacy and its ongoing relevance in contemporary decolonization debates.

Chris Cutrone is a critical theorist and author whose work scrutinizes Marxism through a contemporary lens. In this conversation, Cutrone delves into the revolutionary potential within capitalism, emphasizing the failure of past socialist movements. He discusses the importance of figures like Marx and Lenin, critiques the misconceptions surrounding them, and reinterprets the American Revolution from a leftist perspective. The dialogue also highlights the differences between neoliberalism and Marxist ideals, challenging listeners to rethink freedom and structural change.

Eunsong Kim, Associate Professor of English at Northeastern University, dives into the intricate balance of race, aesthetics, and labor in contemporary art. She challenges the ideas of meritocracy in art, revealing how racial capitalism and colonialism shape museum collections. Kim critiques philanthropy's true motives and explores how art institutions often perpetuate power dynamics, particularly affecting marginalized voices. Her insights invite a reevaluation of cultural spaces and the complexities surrounding digitization and historical representation.

In this enlightening discussion, Chris Benner and Manuel Pastor, experts in economic justice and equity, tackle the urgent issues surrounding lithium extraction in California's Lithium Valley. They highlight the region's potential to impact global electric vehicle markets while emphasizing the environmental degradation and labor exploitation faced by marginalized communities. The duo connects local struggles to broader climate challenges, advocating for a clean energy transition that prioritizes social equity and sustainable practices. Their insights reveal why Lithium Valley's future is critical to the nation's ecological and economic landscape.