New Books Network

James Greenwood-Reeves, a law lecturer at the University of Leeds, explores the moral and legal complexities of violent protest in democratic societies. He discusses the legitimacy of violence in movements like Extinction Rebellion and the Hong Kong protests, arguing that unjust laws may warrant civil disobedience. Greenwood-Reeves examines the relationship between constitutional morality and citizens’ rights, emphasizing how violence can serve as a moral dialogue against oppressive legal systems. His timely insights challenge conventional views on protest and democratic legitimacy.

Youshaa Patel, an associate professor of religious studies and author of *The Muslim Difference*, dives into the concept of imitation in Islam and its historical significance. He discusses how the prophetic hadith on imitation shapes Muslim identity today, particularly in interreligious contexts. Patel unpacks diverse examples, from dress to ritual, illustrating how Muslims express distinctiveness. He also explores the nuances of permissible imitation and presents insights from influential thinkers like Ibn Taymiyya, framing imitation as a tool for self-discipline and community belonging.

Shuchen Xiang, Mount Hua Professor of Philosophy at Xidian University and author of a pivotal new book, dives into the rich tapestry of Chinese identity. She offers a fresh examination of Chinese cosmopolitanism, contrasting it with Western ideas of race and identity. Xiang argues that Chinese philosophy promotes a dynamic identity formed out of diversity, rejecting fixed notions of race. Highlights include her exploration of Confucianism's interplay with contemporary critical race theory and the idea that Chinese identity is more about cultural hybridity than lineage.

Arseli Dokumaci, an Assistant Professor and Canada Research Chair in Critical Disability Studies, explores the concept of 'activist affordances' in her work. She discusses how disabled individuals creatively navigate everyday challenges, turning limitations into opportunities through improvisation. Their ingenuity allows for a more habitable world, highlighting the importance of performance in reshaping environments. Dokumaci also connects disability politics to broader issues like climate crises and infrastructural collapse, emphasizing the role of community and kinship in fostering accessibility.

In this engaging conversation, historian Adam S. Ferziger, a professor at Bar-Ilan University, discusses how American Jews have influenced Israeli Judaism. He explores the evolution of religious Zionism post-1967, revealing its emergence as a key player in Israeli society. Ferziger highlights the transformative role of North American rabbis who reshaped educational paradigms in Israel and delves into the broader societal impacts, including the rise of Orthodox feminism and the 'Israelification' of ideas. A thought-provoking analysis of cultural and religious dynamics!

Bo Tao, a historian of modern Japan and lecturer at Chiba University, dives into the captivating life of Kagawa Toyohiko, hailed as the 'Saint Francis' of Japan. They discuss Kagawa's street preaching and social reform efforts while examining his complex wartime decisions that conflicted with his pacifist image. Tao shares insights from his extensive archival research, revealing Kagawa's collaboration with the Japanese government and his dual role in promoting peace yet supporting nationalism. This rich narrative challenges perceptions of Kagawa's legacy.

Matthew Davis, a writer and journalist whose work has graced The Atlantic and The New Yorker, dives deep into the complex history of Mount Rushmore. He discusses how the monument serves as an American Rorschach test, revealing competing myths of the nation. Davis shares insights on the tumultuous life of sculptor Gutzon Borglum, the impact of the Black Hills' Native history, and the controversies surrounding the site. With a focus on how monuments evolve, he encourages a nuanced reflection on national identity.

Philip J. Stern, a historian at Duke University, offers a fresh perspective on British colonialism, positioning corporations at its core rather than the Crown. He discusses how companies not only drove global expansion but also governed territories, raising intriguing questions about the nature of public and private power. Stern highlights the paradoxes of corporations, the failures of various ventures, and how early modern practices connect to contemporary governance. He also delves into the diverse motives of those promoting colonies, revealing unexpected archival insights.

Jürgen Zimmerer, a Professor of Global History at the University of Hamburg and expert on German colonialism, dives into the complexities of modern German memory culture. He discusses the notion of 'ownership' in historical debates and emphasizes the need for a more inclusive historical narrative that reflects Germany's diverse population. Zimmerer also connects German memory wars to global cultural conflicts, critiques nationalistic misuses of history, and advocates for recognizing shared suffering across communities to foster empathy and open dialogue.

In this enlightening discussion, Judd B. Kessler, a business economics expert at Wharton, delves into his book, *Lucky by Design*. He reveals how hidden markets shape our access to everything from restaurant reservations to college admissions. Kessler explains the intricacies of market design, contrasting it with traditional pricing mechanisms. With insights on lotteries, early applications, and strategies for navigating competitive scenarios, he guides listeners on making better decisions in non-price-based systems. Learn how to gain an edge through understanding these often-overlooked dynamics!