New Books Network

Sociologist Jonathan Winn, co-author of The City and the Hospital, shares insights from his collaborative research on urban health disparities. They discuss the paradox of hospitals located in struggling neighborhoods, where residents often suffer poor health outcomes. Winn explores how race, class, and history influence community trust in medical institutions and highlights the need for tighter accountability for hospitals. They also propose policy recommendations focused on community engagement and the importance of integrating public health into medical education.

Dr. Aria S. Halliday, a distinguished professor and scholar of Black girlhood, delves into the systemic failures faced by Black girls. She critiques the media's portrayal of figures like Malia and Sasha Obama, emphasizing how these narratives contribute to societal harm. Halliday discusses the concept of misogynoir and its impact on Black girls, revealing the damaging effects of adultification and public surveillance. She advocates for acknowledging failures and fostering community support to empower Black girls, urging listeners to take actionable steps towards change.

Sravana Borkataky-Varma, an expert in embodied religious practices, and Anya Foxen, a scholar of modern yoga, delve into the complexities of Kundalini in their discussion. They highlight the diverse interpretations of Kundalini, challenging the notion of a singular authentic experience. The duo explores its historical evolution from ancient texts to contemporary spirituality, touching on issues of commercialization and the risks of disembodied advice in online communities. They advocate for compassionate narratives to balance the fear often associated with Kundalini experiences.

Join Peter Coviello, a Pynchon scholar and English head at UIC, and Ethan Warren, author of a new study on Paul Thomas Anderson, as they dissect the intricate relationship between Anderson's latest film and Pynchon's 'Vineland.' Coviello calls 'Vineland' a pivotal, laugh-filled critique of the police state, while Warren examines PTA's evolving narrative style and engagement with contemporary issues like white supremacy. The duo debates humor, family versus revolutionary themes, and the film’s portrayal of solidarity against fascism.

Anny Gaul, an Assistant Professor of Arabic studies and cultural historian, explores the fascinating journey of the tomato in Egypt. She reveals how this American crop became intertwined with Egypt's national identity and the lives of women home cooks. Anny discusses the complexities of tomato adoption, agricultural advancements, and the socio-political dynamics influencing food culture. She also highlights the role of cookbooks and personal narratives in preserving culinary traditions, while teasing her upcoming research on Palestinian foodways.

In this insightful conversation, Anna Shadrina, a sociology lecturer at the University of Liverpool, explores the 'Babushka Phenomenon' in post-Soviet Russia. She reveals how societal expectations shape grandmothers' roles as primary caregivers, often sacrificing their careers. Shadrina discusses the social construction of age, the invisibility of older women, and their struggles for political and economic recognition. The conversation also touches on class disparities, everyday life, and the complexities of older women's identities in contemporary society.

Elliott Kalan, a seasoned comedy writer and former head writer for The Daily Show, shares insights from his new book, Joke Farming. He demystifies the joke-writing process, emphasizing the importance of structure and audience engagement. Kalan reflects on his collaborative experience in writers' rooms and outlines a practical approach to joke crafting, highlighting how minor wording changes can transform humor. He also dives into the nuances of satire, defining its challenges and artistry while stressing the significance of finding one's unique comedic voice.

Francis Gavin, a historian and director at the Henry Kissinger Center at Johns Hopkins, talks about his book, "Thinking Historically." He argues that history should be a tool for decision-makers, helping them navigate complexities instead of simply providing analogies. Gavin shares insights on the decline of statecraft history and how figures like Ben Bernanke used historical understanding to inform critical decisions during crises. He emphasizes the importance of a historical sensibility and offers a twelve-question checklist to enhance historical decision-making.

Bradley J. Borougerdi, a historian and professor specializing in cannabis history, shares insights from his latest book. He explores cannabis's origins as a food source in Southeast Asia and its evolution across continents. The conversation dives into its various uses—from industrial hemp to modern edibles—and addresses public misconceptions about terminology. Borougerdi also investigates the plant's historical stigmatization and the cultural impact of icons like the cannabis brownie, revealing a rich tapestry of cannabis's global narrative.

Join historian Steve Tibble, an expert on the Crusades, as he explores the intriguing world of the Assassins and Templars. He unpacks how these legendary groups, emerging from the chaotic Eastern Mediterranean, maneuvered through political landscapes with unique leadership and strategies. Tibble reveals the assassins' pragmatic violence, the Templars' monastic military role, and how both faced eventual decline. Plus, he discusses the impact of popular culture on their myths and offers insights into their fascinating histories.