New Books in Critical Theory

Angela K. Lewis-Maddox, a political scientist and assistant dean at UAB, discusses her edited volume showcasing the experiences of Black women in political science. She sheds light on the systemic barriers these scholars face and the need for greater inclusion. The conversation highlights how personal narratives can redefine the field, emphasizing Black feminist scholarship's transformative power. Lewis-Maddox advocates for recognizing diverse perspectives to enrich political discourse and challenges the discipline's traditional frameworks.

Michael Cook, Class of 1943 University Professor of Near Eastern Studies at Princeton University, unveils the intricate tapestry of Islamic history in his new book. He shares riveting insights on Muhammad’s unification of Arabia and the transformative emergence of the Caliphate. Cook dives into the evolving perceptions between Muslims and Europeans, shedding light on how historical events have shaped modern geopolitics. The discussion also includes the rich cultural transitions following the Abbasid Caliphate, emphasizing the ongoing complexities of identity and belief across the Muslim world.

Timothy Stacey, a researcher at Utrecht University, discusses his book on revitalizing liberalism amid rising populism. He critiques the liberal project’s failures and calls for active political engagement. Stacey argues that embracing myth, ritual, and community can bridge the gap between liberal ideals and real-world experiences. He showcases organizations like the Metro Vancouver Alliance, emphasizing how storytelling and solidarity can counter societal polarization. The conversation also explores the reinterpretation of tradition to foster unity in a divisive era.

Cheryl Thompson, Canada Research Chair in Black Expressive Culture, delves into the intricate history of blackface in Canadian performance from 1812 to 1895. She uncovers how minstrel shows intertwined with Black identity and diverse Canadian cultures, highlighting pivotal moments like the influence of Ira Aldridge and Stephen Foster. The discussion unveils the complex legacy of blackface, the migration of cultural practices, and the evolution of Black performers reclaiming their narratives amidst societal challenges, sparking vital conversations about race and representation.

In this engaging discussion, Sarah Bull, an Associate Professor at Toronto Metropolitan University, unpacks the intricate dance between medicine and commerce in Victorian Britain. She highlights how sexual knowledge was shaped by publishers and reformers, defying myths of Victorian ignorance about sex. Bull examines the pivotal struggles over contraception and free speech, revealing a vibrant discourse on sexuality amidst societal change. Listeners will gain insights into the historical complexities of medical publishing and its impact on modern perceptions.

Sarah Kenny, a Lecturer in Modern History at the University of Birmingham and author, dives into the unique landscape of youth culture in post-war Britain. She illuminates how Sheffield, often overlooked, became a vibrant site for youth identities. The discussion highlights the interplay between commerce and leisure, revealing how shifting spaces shaped young people's experiences. Kenny also explores moral panics around youth leisure, and the changing dynamics of gender in pubs, shedding light on social environments that influenced identities.

Nubar Hovsepian, an associate professor emeritus at Chapman University, discusses the profound impact of Edward Said, an iconic intellectual of the twentieth century. The conversation uncovers Said's political awakening post-1967 Arab-Israeli war and his relationship with power dynamics. Hovsepian reflects on their friendship and the challenges of documenting Said's legacy. They explore the role of oppositional intellectuals in advocating for marginalized voices and delve into Said’s vision for coexistence in Palestine amidst contemporary challenges.

In a compelling discussion, Shaina Potts, an Associate Professor at UCLA and expert in economic geography, delves into her groundbreaking work on how U.S. courts have evolved into instruments of global economic power. She reveals the legal mechanisms that facilitate America’s expansion beyond its borders, including the complexities of foreign sovereign immunity. Additionally, Potts examines case studies illustrating judicial imperialism and explores the implications of rising powers like China and Russia on the future of global legal dynamics.

Dominik Zechner, an Assistant Professor at Rutgers University, discusses his new book, examining the unsettling dynamics of reading. He explores how literature can evoke 'linguistic pain,' revealing the breakdown between language and reality. The conversation delves into the intersection of violence and reading, touching on writers like Kafka and Proust, and the influence of modern technologies, like AI, on reading practices. Zechner also scrutinizes how reading embodies transformations, potentially mirroring forms of implicit violence.

Honorée Fanonne Jeffers, a celebrated poet and scholar, shares her insights on the journeys of Black women in America. She discusses the intricate dance between traditional femininity and contemporary identity, revealing the emotional complexities of Black girlhood to womanhood. Jeffers emphasizes the need for authenticity in her writing, explores the powerful influence of Black women's voices in society, and celebrates the role of poetry as a medium for self-expression and collective storytelling. Her reflections encapsulate resilience amid challenges.