New Books Network

In this insightful discussion, Megan Tobias Neely, a sociologist and former hedge fund worker, dives into her book, "Hedged Out: Inequality and Insecurity on Wall Street." She explores the cutthroat world of hedge funds, revealing how elite networks and the culture of homophily perpetuate privilege. Neely touches on career precarity and the toll of long hours while also linking financial ambition to status escalation. She highlights significant accountability failures and the political influence of hedge funds, painting a vivid picture of systemic vulnerabilities.

Mark Celinscak, a Holocaust historian, and Mehnaz Afridi, a scholar focused on Jewish–Muslim relations, explore global approaches to Holocaust memory. They discuss how shifting perspectives reveal new insights from non-European contexts, addressing the challenges of Holocaust education worldwide. The editors emphasize the importance of understanding individual stories alongside broader structural issues. They also highlight notable chapters that deepen our understanding of refugee experiences and the manipulation of national narratives in memory. Their work aims to broaden Holocaust studies and its pedagogical applications.

Mariana Ortega, Associate Professor at Penn State, explores deep connections between art and Latinx identity in her work, "Carnalities: The Art of Living in Latinidad." She discusses carnal aesthetics, highlighting how intimacy influences perception and reshapes artistic practices. Ortega emphasizes the role of photography in engaging with themes of mourning and colonialism. By listening to photographs, especially those documenting migration, she delves into their emotional weight and communal significance. The conversation emphasizes art's power to transform and remember.

Diane Botnick, a debut novelist and seasoned arts professional, delves into her novel Becoming Sarah, inspired by the last Holocaust survivor's story. She explores themes of identity, memory, and the intricate journey of a child born in Auschwitz. Diane shares insights on Sarah's struggle with her origins, the communal care in postwar environments, and the impact of maternal choices on family dynamics. The conversation also touches on the importance of love and belonging as Sarah navigates her complex heritage across Poland and New York.

David Nasaw, a historian known for his expertise in twentieth-century social history, shares insights from his book on veterans returning from World War II. He reveals how these heroes faced unimaginable struggles, battling PTSD long before it was recognized. Nasaw discusses the stigmatization of mentally wounded soldiers and the pressure on women to return to traditional roles. He highlights the impact of the GI Bill on white veterans versus the discrimination faced by Black veterans, painting a vivid picture of a 'wounded generation' navigating a changed America.

In this engaging conversation, Yossi Yovel, a zoologist and neurobiologist known for his work on bat behavior, explores the fascinating world of bats and their intelligence. He discusses how vampire bats share food through reciprocal altruism and the complexities of their social structures. Yovel reveals the surprising communication skills of bats, including vocal learning and dialects. He also addresses the threats bats face from humans and the importance of conservation efforts. Dive into the hidden life of these remarkable creatures!

Amber Day, a Professor of media and performance studies at Bryant University, explores the evolution of feminist comedy in her new book, detailing how women comedians like Samantha Bee and Amy Schumer navigate cultural wars. She discusses the complex backlash female comedians face and the emotional responses their work provokes. Day highlights key events, such as the Ghostbusters fallout and Hannah Gadsby’s Nanette, while examining how these comedians challenge societal norms and expectations. She also predicts future trends in feminist comedy, emphasizing its role in public discourse.

In this discussion, Octávio Amorim Neto, a political science professor, and Igor Acácio, an expert in democracy and civil-military relations, dive into Brazil's troubling trend of militarization. They explore how presidentialism and extremist leaders weaken civilian control and facilitate autocratization. Their insights reveal Brazil's sharp remilitarization since 2016, especially under Bolsonaro, and draw comparisons to other nations facing similar challenges. The conversation highlights the complexities of civil-military ties and the critical implications for democracy.

Yan-ho Lai, a Senior Fellow at Georgetown's Centre for Asian Law, shares insights from his book on Hong Kong's legal resistance. He discusses the erosion of the rule of law under Beijing's interventions and the complex responses of lawyers who engage in pro bono work and public activism. Lai highlights the emotional weight of his research, which includes 77 interviews, and stresses the importance of lawyers in safeguarding institutions and fostering resilience against authoritarianism. His findings provide valuable lessons in the global struggle for legal autonomy.

Amber Day, a Professor of media and performance studies, explores how feminist comedians navigate the complex landscape of contemporary culture wars. She discusses the tensions surrounding figures like Amy Schumer and Leslie Jones, highlighting societal backlash against their work. Day analyzes the emotional reactions critics have towards female comedians and reflects on the significance of visibility, revealing both progress and pitfalls. She also addresses the future of feminist comedy and the role of trans comedians, anticipating ongoing shifts in public discourse.