New Books in Sociology

Laura Miller, an author and professor specializing in the intersections of religion, gender, and popular culture in Japan, offers fascinating insights into the world of occult hunting and supernatural play. She discusses how younger women are pivotal in this emerging cultural phenomenon, shaping a unique industry that intertwines spirituality and entertainment. The conversation uncovers the social value of divination practices, their role in self-exploration, and the evolution of traditional beliefs within contemporary society, emphasizing personal empowerment and community.

Ysabel Gerrard, a Senior Lecturer in Digital Media and Society at the University of Sheffield, discusses the nuanced digital lives of young people. She challenges common myths and reveals the complexities of online interactions, emphasizing both their potential and pitfalls. The conversation delves into issues like anonymity, body image, and the role of social media in youth mental health. It also highlights innovative research methods that capture how teenagers navigate these digital spaces, offering fresh insights into their experiences.

Dána-Ain Davis and Christa Craven, experts in urban studies and feminist ethnography, explore how feminist perspectives reshape research methodologies. They discuss the critical role of community engagement and art in enhancing academic perspectives, as well as the significance of amplifying marginalized voices. The conversation dives into the evolution of feminist ethnography and its capacity to challenge traditional power structures, all while sharing personal anecdotes that highlight the transformative potential of their collaborative work.

In this conversation, Asad L. Asad, Assistant Professor of Sociology at Stanford University and author of Engage and Evade, sheds light on the experiences of Latino immigrant families in the U.S. He reveals how many undocumented individuals navigate governmental institutions, hoping for positive outcomes despite their precarious status. Asad emphasizes the importance of diverse motivations behind immigration—practical and emotional alike—and advocates for a shift in public perception to focus on the shared struggles of all working-class Americans.

Keith Hayward, Professor of Criminology at Copenhagen University, dives into the curious phenomenon of infantilization in contemporary culture. He discusses how modern society blurs the lines of adulthood, with adults increasingly adopting childish behaviors while youth tackle adult challenges early. Hayward critiques the impact of political 'infantocrats' and the evolution of academic standards that prioritize comfort over rigor. He offers humorous anecdotes and thoughtful suggestions for navigating this infantilized landscape, advocating for a positive re-evaluation of adulthood.

James Davison Hunter, Labros Levinson Distinguished Professor of Religion, Culture, and Social Theory, dives deep into America’s political crisis. He explores how historical sources of national solidarity have eroded, leading to stark political polarization. The podcast highlights the role of cultural conflicts rather than mere economic issues in this turmoil. Hunter also examines myths of unity, the impact of American exceptionalism on identity, and the limitations of secular humanism in fostering solidarity amid rising nihilism.

Sam Wetherell, a Senior Lecturer at the University of York and author, dives into the complex history of Liverpool. He discusses how the city's narrative reveals both state neglect and inspiring community solidarity. Key topics include the impact of technology on dock work, the overlooked roles of women and marginalized communities, and the evolution of public health responses. Wetherell offers Liverpool as a lens to understand broader societal challenges in Britain, blending stories of resistance and resilience amid change.

Ståle Holgersen, a Senior Lecturer in Human Geography at Stockholm University, tackles the intricate relationship between economic and ecological crises in his new book. He argues that these crises are not anomalies but fundamental to capitalism's operation, urging a reevaluation of how we understand them. Holgersen emphasizes the need for systemic change rather than viewing crises as opportunities for reform. He also touches on the intersection of wealth disparity and climate challenges, showcasing how marginalized communities are most affected by these intertwined crises.

Valentina Gamberi, an anthropologist specializing in material culture, and Chiara Calzana, a researcher in historical anthropology, delve into the evocative theme of ruins and decay. They discuss how ruins serve as dynamic spaces reflecting resilience, memory, and identity. The conversation highlights the interplay between personal narratives and broader historical contexts, emphasizing how these decaying structures become sites of collective memory and resistance. Their ethnographic studies unveil the powerful connections between heritage and social realities.

Anna Maria Busse Berger, a distinguished music professor, and Henry Spiller, an ethnomusicologist from UC Davis, explore the intricate relationship between missionaries and local music in Indonesia. They reveal how some missionaries preserved while others suppressed musical traditions, reflecting colonial biases. The discussion highlights their collaborative research, emphasizing the need to decolonize music histories and the role of mission archives in documenting cultural exchanges. Their new open-access publication aims to broaden access to Indonesian music narratives.