The 9/11 attacks, as well as the ones in Madrid, London, Paris and Brussels; the genocides in Nazi Germany, Rwanda and Cambodia; the torture in dictatorial regimes; the wars in former Yugoslavia, Syria and Iraq and currently in Ukraine; the sexual violence during periods of conflict, all make us wonder: why would anyone do something like that? Who are these people? Drawing on 30 years of research, Alette Smeulers explores the perpetrators of mass atrocities such as war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and terrorism. Examining questions of why people kill and torture and how mass atrocities can be explained, Smeulers presents a typology of perpetrators, with different ranks, roles and motives. Devoting one chapter to each type of perpetrator, Perpetrators of Mass Atrocities: Terribly and Terrifyingly Normal? (Routledge, 2023) combines insights from academic research with illustrative case studies of well-known perpetrators, from dictators to middlemen, to lower ranking officials and terrorists. Their stories are explored in depth as the book examines their behaviour and motivation. Perpetrators of Mass Atrocities thus provides a comprehensive understanding of the causes of extreme mass violence. Such knowledge not only can help the international criminal justice system to be able to attribute blame in a fairer way but can also assist in preventing such atrocities being committed on the current scale. Perpetrators of Mass Atrocities is essential reading for all those interested in war crimes, genocide, terrorism and mass violence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/sociology

Climate change is among the most significant challenges facing modern society, and it impacts everyone across the world. How do people in different socio-cultural contexts perceive the climate crisis, and how willing are they to engage in climate-related action? In this episode, we will compare perceptions about climate change and willingness for climate action in South Korea and Finland, two countries that represent very different cultural backgrounds. Dr. Jingoo Kang and Dr. Sakari Tolppanen from the University of Eastern Finland introduce their cross-cultural comparative research on willingness for climate action among students in South Korea and Finland.This episode is produced with the support of the Otto A. Malm Foundation, and it relates to the Finland-Korea Symposium organised in 2023 to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Finland and the Republic of Korea.Dr. Jingoo Kang is an Academy Research Fellow at the School of Applied Educational Science and Teacher Education at the University of Eastern Finland. Dr. Sakari Tolppanen is a Senior Researcher at the School of Applied Educational Science and Teacher Education at the University of Eastern Finland.Ari-Joonas Pitkänen is a Doctoral Researcher at the Centre for East Asian Studies, University of Turku.The Nordic Asia Podcast is a collaboration sharing expertise on Asia across the Nordic region, brought to you by the following academic partners: Asia Centre, University of Tartu (Estonia), Asian studies, University of Helsinki (Finland), Centre for Asian Studies, Vytautas Magnus University (Lithuania), Centre for East Asian Studies, University of Turku (Finland) and Centre for East and South-East Asian Studies, Lund University (Sweden) and Norwegian Network for Asian Studies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/sociology

Dr. Jennifer Greenburg, a political geographer and lecturer at the University of Sheffield, dives into her book on how U.S. military strategies post-9/11 interweave gender politics with humanitarian efforts. She examines the paradox of all-female teams used in military operations, revealing how they navigate a space of empowerment and combat. Greenburg critiques liberal feminist narratives that celebrate these roles while unpacking how these dynamics reinforce gender stereotypes. Her insights highlight the complex relationship between feminism, militarism, and imperialism.

Jonathon Wilson-Hartgrove, a writer, preacher, and moral activist at Yale Divinity School, tackles the myths linking race and poverty in America. He reveals the overlooked reality of white poverty, examining its historical roots and political consequences. Through compelling anecdotes, he reflects on his journey toward a faith intertwined with social justice, advocating for unity among diverse racial groups. Wilson-Hartgrove also addresses the role of religion in movements for justice and the complex views on gun control within pro-life narratives.

In a fascinating discussion, Steven Shapin, Professor emeritus of the history of science at Harvard, delves into the intertwined history of food and identity. He explores how eating has evolved from moral and dietary practices to a focus solely on health. Shapin contrasts traditional dietetics with modern nutrition science, revealing how industrialization reshaped our understanding of food. He encourages a deeper appreciation of everyday dining experiences, urging listeners to reconsider the cultural narratives woven into our meals.

Stacey Diane Arañez Litam, an Associate Professor and clinical counselor, discusses her enlightening book that serves as a healing guide for Asian immigrant children. She delves into the historical and cultural factors shaping Asian American experiences, emphasizing the importance of emotional awareness. Litam critiques the model minority myth and advocates for decolonizing mental health practices. She highlights the role of literature in generational healing, promoting community support over individualism. Her insights foster a deeper understanding of identity and resilience.

David Lyon, a leading expert on surveillance and former Director of the Surveillance Studies Centre, discusses the pervasive nature of surveillance in today's world. He dives into how technologies like smartphones and facial recognition have evolved, framing the ethical dilemmas they pose. From the convenience of biometric systems in travel to the challenges of surveillance capitalism, Lyon highlights the implications for personal privacy. The conversation also sheds light on the historical context and urgent need for a balanced perspective on the benefits and risks of surveillance.

Adam Elliott-Cooper, a Lecturer in Public and Social Policy at Queen Mary University of London, delves into his book, exploring the activism behind movements like Black Lives Matter. He discusses how state racism challenges Britain's self-image, linking historical colonialism to contemporary policing issues. Elliott-Cooper analyzes the dynamics of youth activism in response to police violence, particularly focusing on Black women's roles in resistance. He advocates for community-led justice initiatives, emphasizing resilience against oppressive systems.

Peter Mandler, a Professor of Modern Cultural History at the University of Cambridge, dives into the transformation of Britain's education system since WWII. He discusses the shift from elitist meritocracy to a more democratic approach, highlighting the impact of the Butler Act and comprehensive schools. Mandler critiques the effectiveness of education in addressing social inequalities and argues that simply having education isn't enough to ensure social mobility. His insights shed light on the historical context and ongoing challenges within the British educational landscape.

Devin Fergus, an Arvarh E. Strickland Distinguished Professor at the University of Missouri, dives deep into the hidden costs undermining the American middle class in his insightful discussion. He sheds light on how fees embedded in everyday transactions contribute to wealth inequality. Fergus connects these financial burdens to deregulation and critiques policies impacting housing, education, and employment. He also addresses the pitfalls of payday lending and reflects on economic mobility myths, revealing the harsh realities for many.