New Books in Critical Theory
Marshall Poe
This podcast is a channel on the New Books Network. The New Books Network is an academic audio library dedicated to public education. In each episode you will hear scholars discuss their recently published research with another expert in their field.
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Discover our 150+ channels and browse our 28,000+ episodes on our website: newbooksnetwork.com
Subscribe to our free weekly Substack newsletter to get informative, engaging content straight to your inbox: https://newbooksnetwork.substack.com/
Follow us on Instagram and Bluesky to learn about more our latest interviews: @newbooksnetworkSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/critical-theory
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 4, 2024 • 1h 24min
Douglas Greene, "The New Reformism and the Revival of Karl Kautsky: The Renegade's Revenge" (Routledge, 2024)
Doug Greene, a Boston historian, discusses his book on Karl Kautsky’s political evolution from revolution to reform. He examines Kautsky's historical impact and the critiques from notable figures like Rosa Luxemburg and Lenin. Greene argues that reformism may hinder revolutionary goals, highlighting contemporary leftists who draw from Kautsky’s ideas. He emphasizes the tension between centrist views and the need for revolutionary action within modern socialism, challenging listeners to rethink the relevance of Kautsky’s theories for today’s political landscape.
6 snips
Aug 3, 2024 • 58min
Susan Stryker, "When Monsters Speak: A Susan Stryker Reader" (Duke UP, 2024)
Susan Stryker, a foundational figure in trans studies and author of seminal works like Transgender History, discusses her new collection, When Monsters Speak. She reflects on her writings since the 90s, showcasing the vibrant LGBTQ+ culture of San Francisco. The conversation dives into the blend of personal narrative and academic theory, emphasizing the significance of embodied knowledge. Stryker also explores the connections between monstrosity and trans experiences, shedding light on identity, visibility, and the complexities of societal perceptions.
Aug 3, 2024 • 44min
Laura Beers. "Orwell’s Ghosts Wisdom and Warnings for the 21st Century" (Norton, 2024)
Laura Beers, a Professor of History at American University, discusses her book examining George Orwell's relevance today. She dives into how Orwell’s themes of power, truth manipulation, and social justice resonate in contemporary politics. Beers also explores Orwell's views on imperialism and gender, revealing his complexities and contradictions. The conversation highlights Orwell's influence on events like the January 6th insurrection and critiques the portrayal of women in literature, making a compelling case for Orwell's lasting legacy.
Aug 2, 2024 • 51min
Neoliberalism and the University, Part 1
Explore how neoliberalism reshapes higher education, affecting students, faculty, and institutions. Dive into the corporatization of universities and the rising burdens of student debt. Uncover the precarious reality for adjunct faculty and the challenges of academic casualization. The conversation also highlights the shift from academic ideals to profit-driven motives, exposing the urgent need for equitable practices and grassroots organizing in today's educational landscape.
Jul 31, 2024 • 1h 10min
Bernard E. Harcourt. "Cooperation: A Political, Economic, and Social Theory" (Columbia UP, 2023)
In this engaging discussion, Bernard E. Harcourt, the author of 'Cooperation: A Political, Economic, and Social Theory,' explores innovative models of cooperation as a viable alternative to capitalism. He delves into the crises facing liberal democracies and the need for cooperative frameworks to combat climate change and economic inequality. Harcourt highlights how cooperation can redefine justice and promote equitable wealth distribution. He also introduces 'cooperism,' emphasizing the importance of solidarity and mutual aid in crafting sustainable futures.
Jul 29, 2024 • 1h 9min
Jan Eeckhout, "The Profit Paradox: How Thriving Firms Threaten the Future of Work" (Princeton UP, 2021)
Jan Eeckhout, an author and economist, explores the paradox of market success in 'The Profit Paradox.' He explains how thriving firms can actually hinder job creation and exacerbate economic inequality. Eeckhout discusses the monopolistic practices of large companies and their detrimental effects on competition and innovation. He advocates for thoughtful regulation, especially in the age of AI, to promote fair competition and safeguard the labor market. Ultimately, he offers an optimistic vision for balancing economic growth with social equity.
13 snips
Jul 28, 2024 • 38min
Musa al-Gharbi, "We Have Never Been Woke: The Cultural Contradictions of a New Elite" (Princeton UP, 2024)
Musa al-Gharbi, an author who delves into the contradictions of social justice movements, offers a thought-provoking critique of the new 'woke' elite. He argues that this group uses social justice rhetoric to gain power while perpetuating inequality. The conversation covers how symbolic capitalism shapes societal perceptions and explores the conflicts within wealthy foundations. Al-Gharbi also discusses the evolving narrative of trauma in America, highlighting how broader definitions of trauma impact notions of victimhood, particularly across different socioeconomic groups.
Jul 26, 2024 • 57min
Jonathan Branfman, "Millennial Jewish Stars: Navigating Racial Antisemitism, Masculinity, and White Supremacy" (NYU Press, 2024)
Author Jonathan Branfman discusses how millennial Jewish stars like Drake and Seth Rogen navigate racial antisemitism and masculinity in entertainment. They challenge stereotypes, channel national anxieties, and reflect societal issues through their performances, ultimately presenting a marketable image that resonates with audiences.
Jul 22, 2024 • 37min
Gavriel D. Rosenfeld and Janet Ward, "Fascism in America: Past and Present" (Cambridge UP, 2023)
Experts Gavriel D. Rosenfeld and Janet Ward discuss the history of fascism in America, exploring the presence of fascist ideas in US society, analyzing the rise of Black antifascism, white vigilantism, and American Nazis in popular culture. They debate whether Trumpism aligns with fascism, examine historical conservative-fascist relationships, and explore alternate history scenarios where Nazis win World War Two in TV series.
Jul 21, 2024 • 56min
Breanne Fahs, "Burn It Down: Feminist Manifestos for the Revolution" (Verso, 2020)
Breanne Fahs, curator of feminist manifestos, discusses the power of these documents in igniting social change. The podcast explores the diverse voices and movements represented in the collection, from queer trans activism to body positivity. It delves into the historical significance of feminist manifestos, highlighting their relevance in addressing societal issues like capitalism and labor. The discussion also touches on feminist hackers, embracing humor in feminist politics, and the importance of witchcraft in women's history.
