New Books Network

In this engaging discussion, Russell T. McCutcheon, a notable scholar in the study of religion, delves into his book, advocating for a reimagined approach to the field. He argues that religion should be viewed as a mundane aspect of human culture, increasing its relevance beyond academia. McCutcheon also highlights challenges in higher education, discusses shifting from content to transferable skills in teaching, and calls for a rethinking of graduate programs to better prepare scholars for diverse career paths.

Diane T. Feldman, a historian focusing on the Mississippi civil rights movement, shares her insights on the transformative history of Holmes County. She discusses the grassroots leadership of African American farmers and their cooperative landownership efforts. Feldman highlights the cultural impact of the Church of God in Christ, connecting its theology to social egalitarianism. The conversation also dives into crucial moments like school desegregation and contemporary challenges in food production, revealing the enduring resilience of the community.

Georgios Giannakopoulos, a Lecturer in modern history and author of The Interpreters, dives into the fascinating interplay between British internationalism and Southeastern Europe from 1870 to 1930. He discusses how British scholars navigated complex nationalisms and shaped regional narratives, focusing on pivotal figures like Arthur Evans and Seton-Watson. The conversation touches on the political ramifications of 1870s Bulgarian atrocities, the role of archaeology in civilization narratives, and the ongoing influence of these historical interpreters on modern discussions about empire and identity.

Fahad Ahmad Bishara, an associate professor specializing in Gulf and Indian Ocean maritime history, dives into his new book, *Monsoon Voyagers*, detailing a dhow's journey in the 1920s. He discusses how this microhistory uncovers broader networks of trade and cultural exchange. Bishara shares insights on Kuwait's transformation into a vibrant maritime hub, the significance of debt as a business tool, and the legal complexities faced by merchants. His exploration of navigation techniques and the cultural life aboard the ship enriches our understanding of this dynamic oceanic world.

Julien Chung, an award-winning illustrator from Montreal, discusses his captivating new picture book, You Can't Tame a Tiger, and shares insights from his diverse career in illustration and graphic design. He reveals his creative journey, explaining how he transitioned to children's books after age 50. Julien shares his love for visual storytelling, highlighting the importance of 'wow' moments and the collaborative nature of illustration. He also provides advice for aspiring artists, emphasizing the value of community and mentorship in the creative industry.

In a captivating discussion, Alex Priou, a political philosophy expert and scholar of classical thought, delves into how technology and ideology shape the modern soul. He explores the drive for control in modernity, contrasting it with ancient wisdom from Homer and Plato. Priou warns about AI's potential to erode social bonds, advocating for self-restraint over mere mobilization. He suggests that revisiting ancient philosophy could guide modern education and cultivate the virtues necessary for a balanced life amid relentless innovation.

Fang Yu Hu, an Assistant Professor of History at Cal Poly Pomona, explores the intricate interplay of gender and education in Taiwan during Japanese rule. She reveals how the 'Good Wife, Wise Mother' program sought to reshape Han Taiwanese girls into modern citizens, while also examining the effects of this education on class structures and gender roles. Hu discusses local elite responses to this initiative and unpacks the nostalgic views of Japanese-educated Taiwanese post-colonization, all while hinting at her next research on Taiwanese migrants.

Dr. Marion Orr, a political scientist and professor at Brown University, dives into the fascinating life of Charles C. Diggs Jr., Michigan’s first Black Congressman and a key player in the civil rights movement. Orr discusses Diggs's strategic moderation in politics, his work with Martin Luther King Jr., and his legislative achievements like restoring home rule to DC. He highlights Diggs’s lesser-known contributions to the anti-apartheid movement and the founding of the Congressional Black Caucus, revealing how his groundbreaking career has often been overlooked.

Dive deep into Bruce Springsteen's iconic album, Nebraska, as hosts explore its personal and political dimensions. With contrasting perspectives, they discuss the album's raw lo-fi sound and its reflection of the early 1980s American landscape. The hosts analyze striking themes like family loyalty, the American Dream, and economic despair. They draw connections to cinematic influences and the haunting urgency of its demo origins. A blend of nostalgia and critique reveals Nebraska's role in shaping cultural narratives.

William J. Glover, a history professor at the University of Michigan, discusses his latest work on how urban life intertwined with agrarian practices in late colonial India. He explores Punjab's fertile landscape and its role in revealing rural urbanization. Glover delves into the historical shift from separation to co-constitution of urban and rural life, viewing contemporary census towns as a continuation of this trend. He highlights the impact of famine reports on rural governance and reflects on how aesthetic reforms influenced political responses in the region.