New Books in Critical Theory

In this engaging discussion, author and historian Sarah Lewis delves into her groundbreaking work on race and visual culture. She uncovers the historical myths surrounding racial superiority, particularly through the lens of the Caucasus region. Lewis highlights how the misrepresentation in maps and geography has reinforced racial hierarchies while showcasing influential figures like Frederick Douglass who challenged these narratives. The conversation also touches on the resilience of African Americans amidst systemic injustices and the ongoing efforts to reevaluate Black contributions to visual culture.

Shane Burley, an author and activist focused on anti-fascism, joins Ben Lorber, a researcher specializing in antisemitism and far-right movements, to tackle the complexities of rising antisemitism. They discuss the urgency of building solidarity among marginalized groups to confront hate. Exploring historical roots and modern conspiracy theories, they highlight Trump’s impact on far-right ideologies. With a focus on nuanced discourse, they advocate for coalition-building that respects both Jewish safety and Palestinian rights.

Lucy Weir, a Reader in History of Art at the University of Edinburgh, engages in a provocative discussion on the intersections of performance art, masculinity, and self-injury. She questions whether self-harm can be considered art and challenges traditional gender associations within this realm. Weir explores the influential Viennese Actionism and delves into artists like Ron Athey and Wafaa Bilal, examining how their controversial performances resonate in socio-political contexts and redefine bodily autonomy and artistic expression.

Dr. Ernesto Castaneda, an immigration studies expert, and Carina Cione, a researcher in evidence-based immigration analysis, explore captivating insights from their new book. They tackle common myths about immigration, emphasizing its socio-economic benefits. The duo dissects misconceptions about border safety, argues against the narrative framing immigrants as threats, and reveals that they contribute positively to economies. They discuss the complexities of language acquisition and the urgent need for humane immigration policies to foster a more informed and empathetic public discourse.

Alexis Pauline Gumbs is an acclaimed scholar and poet who delves into the life and influence of Audre Lorde. Gumbs discusses how Lorde's concepts of survival extend beyond personal resilience to encompass our relationship with a dynamically changing planet. She highlights Lorde’s ecological imagery as a vital framework for understanding identity and community. The conversation also touches on Lorde's activism and her responses to historical hurricanes, drawing connections between personal narratives of survival and broader social movements.

Danny Sriskandarajah, an advocate for citizen action, shares insights from his radical manifesto for change. He delves into the importance of civic engagement and the urgent threats to democracy, emphasizing grassroots movements. Sriskandarajah illustrates the power of community through inspiring real-life examples. He also explores the need for reform in global decision-making, advocating for a 'people's chamber' at the UN to give marginalized voices a platform. Listeners are challenged to reclaim their power and drive meaningful societal change.

Karl Marx, the revolutionary philosopher and economist, delves into his groundbreaking work, "Capital: Critique of Political Economy, Volume 1." He discusses the relentless drive for value in our global economic system and the resulting struggle between owners and workers. The conversation highlights the challenges of translating his complex ideas for contemporary audiences while making them relatable. Marx's insights into capitalism's roots in colonization and exploitation remain strikingly relevant today, revealing the history behind our financial systems.

Melissa Osborne, an associate professor at Western Washington University, dives into her book, exploring the experiences of low-income and first-generation college students at elite universities. She highlights the complexities of social mobility, detailing how these students often feel alienated and face unique challenges compared to their more privileged peers. The discussion critiques existing support systems and emphasizes the need for universities to reimagine their approaches, ensuring that non-traditional students receive the guidance they truly require.

Yahya Birt, an expert in decolonial Muslim political activism and thought in Britain, delves into the evolution of activism from the 1960s to the 1990s. He highlights the critical distinctions between decoloniality and decolonization, emphasizing their relevance in contemporary struggles. Birt traces the historical roots of Muslim political thought and how past anti-colonial movements shape today's activism. He also examines influential figures like Mushir Qidwai and the complex dynamics introduced by the Iranian Revolution, enriching discussions on identity and governance.

Josh Cowen, an expert on educational policy and author of "The Privateers," discusses the controversial role of school vouchers and their negative impact on educational outcomes. He reveals how these programs, initially linked to conservative economic strategies, have fueled a culture war over education. Cowen critiques the motivations behind the voucher movement, highlighting the connections to billionaire influence and the emphasis on ideological goals rather than student success. He also explores the implications of vouchers for public education and societal equality.