New Books in Critical Theory

Dr. Julia Havas discusses feminist quality TV in the 21st century, highlighting the subversion of masculine-coded culture and postfeminist influences. She analyzes TV shows like 30 Rock, Parks and Recreation, The Good Wife, and Orange is the New Black, exploring themes of femininity, physical comedy, complex female characters, diversity, and eastern European representations in media.

Salar Mameni historicizes the emergence of the Anthropocene alongside the global war on terror, introducing the concept of Terracene. He discusses the racialized militarism and environmental destruction, the convergence of the Anthropos and terrorists, and the need for new engagements with the earth. Mameni explores how artists interrogate histories of land interests in regions affected by the war on terror, offering speculative paths into the aesthetics of the Terracene.

Céline Bessière and Sibylle Gollac discuss how women face economic disadvantages within families despite legal advancements. They explore the unequal distribution of resources benefiting men, biases in divorce proceedings and estate planning, and the perpetuation of gender inequality. The podcast delves into the dynamics of wealth transmission, inheritance practices, and the impact of gender roles on economic disparities.

Glenn Wallis, author of Nietzsche Now!, discusses how Nietzsche's work can provide insights on urgent topics like democracy, identity, and religion. Wallis identifies six guiding principles in Nietzsche's work and explains why Nietzsche may be the most relevant thinker for our time. Topics include curiosity, humor, courage, distance, solitude, and humor.

Dr. Justin O'Connor believes culture is essential to humanity, not just an industry. He challenges the commodification of culture, calling for a return to its radical roots. The discussion covers the evolution of culture, art as human expression, cultural consumption shifts, infrastructural challenges, loss of public control, and the importance of culture as a collective conversation.

Adia Harvey Wingfield, a sociologist, discusses how racial inequalities persist in workplaces through 'gray areas' despite diversity initiatives. She shares stories of Black workers' struggles in various professions, highlighting challenges in hiring, advancement, and leadership. The podcast delves into the complexities of racism in work environments, offering solutions to address biases and promote inclusivity.

Andil Gosine explores queer desire in the Caribbean, challenging human/animal divides. He discusses homoerotic games, gender-based dress codes, and decriminalization efforts. Gosine examines the impact of colonial law, visual art, and activism. He calls for a reevaluation of political liberation and challenges societal anxieties about 'wild natures'.

Dr. Karyne Messina discusses Barbie as a symbol of America's identity crisis, exploring issues of racism, patriarchy, and cultural appropriation. The podcast delves into societal norms, gender roles, and the interconnectedness of personal and collective identity formation. It also touches on topics like masculinity stereotypes, eco grief, and optimistic futuristic visions, offering a roadmap for a more just and equitable future.

Ariella Aisha Azoulay discusses unlearning imperialism's impact on institutions like archives and museums. She advocates for practicing potential history to resist imperial violence, challenge Western museums, and redefine sovereignty and human rights. The podcast explores the intersection of archives and violence, strategies of resistance, and reclaiming rights through reparative work.

Dr. Kathryn Telling, lecturer at the University of Manchester, discusses the rise of liberal arts degrees in England and the challenges of inclusion and prestige in higher education. Topics include interdisciplinarity, institutional status, employability, and inequality, as well as the complexities of liberal arts education, ideal cosmopolitan students, and decision-making analogies in admissions.