New Books Network

Kerry Goettlich, an associate professor in international politics and author of From Frontiers to Borders, dives into the fascinating origins of modern territoriality. He critiques dominant narratives about borders and reveals how linear boundaries emerged through colonial surveying. Goettlich distinguishes technical practices from sovereignty, emphasizing how boundary experts influenced significant moments like the Paris Peace Conference. His insights uncover the colonial roots of boundary practices and question their durability in today's world.

Vanessa Díaz, a scholar who developed a Bad Bunny course, and Petra R. Rivera-Rideau, an expert on Latinx music, dive into the cultural impact of the iconic artist. They discuss how Bad Bunny's rise intersects with Puerto Rico's colonial struggles and resilience. The duo explores the evolution of reggaetón, his fluctuating global success, and the political significance behind his lyrics. They also tackle the challenges of performing in Spanish and the artist's responses to criticism, showcasing the blending of joy and protest in his music.

Douglas Greene, an independent Marxist historian specializing in 19th- and 20th-century political theory, delves into the intricate legacy of Stalin in his latest book. He critiques contemporary defenses of Stalin, arguing they often rely on conspiratorial thinking and misinterpretations of history. Greene also dissects the myths surrounding Trotsky and the Moscow Trials, emphasizing the flawed reliance on coerced confessions. He champions a rational approach to history while reflecting on how emotional ties can lead militants to embrace conspiracies in their fight for socialism.

Aija Leiponen, an economist and strategy professor at Cornell University, dives into the world of digital innovation strategies in her latest work. She contrasts digital with digital-enabled firms, shedding light on their differing cost structures. Aija reveals how behavioral uncertainty is often overlooked and debates the limited role of generative AI in reducing uncertainty. She discusses the power dynamics of platforms, the risks of data as a strategic asset, and the implications of algorithmic bias. With insights drawn from real-world cases, Aija guides innovators on navigating the complexities of digital markets.

Leah Lowthorp, a cultural anthropologist and folklorist at the University of Oregon, delves into the world of Kutiyattam, the ancient Sanskrit theater from Kerala. She discusses its rich cosmopolitan history and critiques the ways UNESCO frames non-Western traditions. The conversation touches on Kerala's diverse heritage, the role of communism in reshaping cultural identity, and the significance of kinesthetic empathy in understanding performance. Leah also hints at her upcoming project exploring online folklore around genetics, blending tradition with modernity.

Q. Edward Wang, a historian and cultural expert, delves into the fascinating journey of the sweet potato, from its introduction to Europe by Columbus as an aphrodisiac to its role in China's population growth. He discusses its use in Japan during famines, contrasting regional adaptations, and explores its significance in Southeast Asia and beyond. Wang highlights the nutritional acclaim it has garnered as a 'superfood' and contrasts it with the white potato, showcasing how this resilient crop has transformed agricultural practices and cultural identities worldwide.

Angie Hobbs, an emerita professor specializing in ancient Greek philosophy, discusses her book, Why Plato Matters Now. She argues that Plato's ideas about democracy, art, and community are extremely relevant today. Hobbs emphasizes how Plato's dialogue form promotes active engagement in philosophy, making it a vital educational tool. She explores themes like moral education for children, the dangers of censorship, and how to combat modern challenges using Plato's insights. With a focus on flourishing and inclusion, she highlights the need for his wisdom in contemporary society.

Luiz Guilherme Burlamaqui, a historian and assistant professor from Brazil, explores the complex political narrative of João Havelange's ascent to FIFA presidency. He discusses how Havelange's rise was influenced by the Cold War and Brazil's military regime, challenging the notion that FIFA's commercialization began with his leadership. Burlamaqui reveals Havelange as both a savvy self-mythologizer and a pragmatic centrist, while also addressing the intricacies of translating his research for a global audience.

In this engaging discussion, scholars Petra R. Rivera-Rideau and Vanessa Díaz delve into their book on Bad Bunny, the Puerto Rican icon redefining musical and political landscapes. They explore how Bad Bunny's rise mirrors Puerto Rico's struggles with colonialism and resilience. The conversation highlights his significant contributions to reggaetón, cultural identity, and activism, showcasing moments like his involvement in protests and the impact of his bilingual music. The authors also share insights from their collaborative work on the 'Bad Bunny Syllabus' and its evolution into a broader cultural narrative.

Sonia Hazard, an assistant professor at Florida State University, discusses her book, which examines how the American Tract Society harnessed print media for evangelism in the 19th century. She reveals the staggering volume of 5.6 billion printed pages and how the design of tracts was crafted to engage and convert readers. The conversation highlights the societal impact of media infrastructure, the ATS's strategies for reaching marginalized audiences, and unexpected connections to today's media landscapes. There's much to ponder about power dynamics in a media-saturated world!