New Books in Economics

Swethaa Ballakrishnen, a sociolegal scholar and assistant professor at UC Irvine, discusses her book on gender dynamics in India’s elite law firms. She reveals how structural factors create unexpected gender parity in a male-dominated industry. The conversation explores the complex interplay of socio-economic backgrounds, family dynamics, and changing perceptions of work. Ballakrishnen challenges notions of intentionality in feminism, questioning whether unintentional progress can still be deemed feminist. Intriguing insights abound on navigating gender in India’s professional landscapes.

Enze Han, an Associate Professor at the University of Hong Kong and author of "The Ripple Effect: China's Complex Presence in Southeast Asia," explores the intricate dynamics of China's influence in Southeast Asia. He argues against viewing China as a monolithic entity, emphasizing the critical roles of non-state actors like businesses and migrants, which contribute to diverse perceptions across the region. Han discusses how authoritarianism shapes local attitudes toward China, the intertwined economies of countries like Thailand and Myanmar, and the complexities of illicit networks impacting relations.

Leah Downey, a research fellow at Cambridge University, explores the critical intersection of monetary policy and democratic theory. She argues for a more democratic approach to money creation, critiquing the traditional independence of central banks. Downey discusses the historical evolution of the Federal Reserve and advocates for increased citizen involvement in monetary policy. By introducing 'iterative governance,' she emphasizes the importance of legislative oversight to ensure that economic policies reflect the will of the people, fostering true democratic accountability.

Christine M. Larson, a Professor at the University of Colorado Boulder, dives into the transformative impact of self-publishing on romance authors in her latest work. She reveals how Romancelandia evolved into a supportive community, enabling these writers to thrive despite historical challenges. The discussion highlights a striking 73% income increase among romance authors, showcasing their success in the digital economy. Larson also addresses the ongoing struggle for representation and inclusivity, emphasizing the solidarity among marginalized voices in this genre.

Matt Beane, Assistant Professor of Technology Management at UC Santa Barbara, explores the crucial balance between human skills and automation in his book. He discusses how AI impacts skill-sharing, especially in professional settings, and tackles the challenge of maintaining mentor-mentee relationships. Beane highlights innovative training systems and shares insights on using generative AI in skill development. Additionally, he unveils his new role with Skill Bench, aiming to transform surgical training through technology and collaborative learning.

Pinelopi Koujianou Goldberg, Elihu Professor of Economics at Yale and former Chief Economist of the World Bank, dives into the multifaceted impacts of globalization. She discusses the shift from hyper-globalization to skepticism, driven by political events like Brexit. Goldberg examines how globalization disproportionately affects various communities, leading to anti-globalization sentiments. She also explores the vulnerabilities revealed by COVID-19 and advocates for resilient supply chains and place-based policies to support affected regions.

Ulises Mejias, a Communication Studies professor, and Nick Couldry, a media and social theory expert, tackle the urgent issue of data colonialism in this thought-provoking discussion. They illuminate how Big Tech's data extraction mirrors historical colonial practices, disproportionately benefiting certain races while exploiting gig workers. The duo advocates for resistance, encouraging listeners to reconsider the implications of technology on labor dynamics and the environment. They emphasize the necessity of educating future generations to confront these pervasive issues head-on.

Join Odile Mackett, a senior researcher from South Africa, and Sara Stevano, a senior lecturer at SOAS University of London, as they delve into the transformative book "Feminist Political Economy: A Global Perspective." They discuss the critical importance of addressing unpaid labor and the dynamics of inequality in households. The conversation highlights how the COVID-19 pandemic revealed flaws in traditional economic frameworks and why integrating feminist theories can reshape development policies. Their insights challenge mainstream narratives and broaden our understanding of social reproduction.

Nicholas Moore, Australia’s Special Envoy for Southeast Asia and architect of the national economic strategy, discusses the vital ties between Australia and Southeast Asia. He highlights the region's projected growth and its significance for Australia’s economic future. The conversation emphasizes the need for enhanced language literacy, collaboration among universities, and the opportunities for research in agriculture, governance, and energy transition, all aimed at deepening economic ties and fostering mutual prosperity.

Melissa B. Jacoby, Graham Kenan Professor of Law, dives into the complexities of America's bankruptcy system. She explains how it serves the wealthy while leaving marginalized communities more vulnerable. The discussion reveals how racial disparities in bankruptcy impact Black Americans and exacerbate economic inequality. Jacoby also highlights the preferential treatment corporations receive and the need for reforms to ensure fairness. Her insights illuminate the connections between bankruptcy and broader social justice issues, making a compelling case for systemic change.