New Books in Sociology

Lucan Way, a political science professor at the University of Toronto, discusses his latest work, co-authored with Steven Levitsky, on the surprising durability of authoritarian regimes that stem from revolutions. They analyze why revolutions, often seen as progressive, can entrench authoritarianism through counterrevolutionary violence. The conversation highlights historical examples from the Soviet Union to Cuba, illustrating how strong state-building and ruling elites contribute to regime stability, even amidst crises. They also touch on foreign policy strategies in relation to resilient authoritarian states.

Uzma Quraishi, an Associate Professor at Sam Houston State University, explores Indian and Pakistani immigration to Houston during the Cold War. She discusses how public diplomacy influenced highly educated South Asian students' migration. The conversation highlights the creation of inter-ethnic identities among immigrants and the concept of 'brown flight.' Quraishi examines the role of historical narratives in understanding current social movements, situating these immigrant experiences within broader racial dynamics in the South.

Join sociologists Barbara Vinick and Shulamit Reinharz as they discuss their book featuring 100 Jewish brides' stories from around the globe. Vinick, a gerontologist, dives into the diversity of Jewish women's experiences, while Reinharz brings insights from her heritage. They explore narratives of resilience, love, and tradition, including a touching love story set during World War II. Highlighting unique customs, they shed light on often-overlooked Jewish communities, emphasizing the importance of women's voices in these rich cultural tapestries.

Dr. Zozan Balci, an award-winning sociolinguist and social justice advocate, shares insights from her book, exploring the complex experiences of individuals navigating multicultural identities with three languages in play. The conversation highlights the emotional impact of suppressing heritage languages and the journey towards embracing one’s cultural identity. Balci emphasizes the power of personal stories in reconnecting with heritage and the importance of respectful name pronunciation in fostering confidence and cultural competence.

Todd McGowan is a theory and film professor at the University of Vermont and author of several influential books, including his latest, which challenges traditional views of capitalism. He discusses 'pure excess', arguing that capitalism thrives on fueling endless desires without fulfillment. McGowan critiques the simplification of economic issues and explores the allure of consumerism as a modern religion. He also highlights youth activism's paradoxes and emphasizes art’s potential to expose and resist capitalism's contradictions.

Thomas Kemple, a Sociology professor at UBC and author of 'Intellectual Work and the Spirit of Capitalism: Weber’s Calling,' dives deep into Max Weber's legacy. He highlights how Weber’s literary structure enhances the understanding of his sociological ideas and introduces intriguing diagrams that visualize complex thoughts. Kemple explores Weber’s intellectual partnerships, particularly with his wife, Marianne, and connects Weber’s themes to broader cultural influencers like Goethe and Tolstoy. The discussion also touches on the ethics of conviction versus responsibility, enriching our view of modern professions.

In this engaging conversation, Camilo Pérez-Bustillo, a human rights educator, and Eduardo Mendieta, a philosopher, delve into Enrique Dussel's groundbreaking work, which intertwines Marxist and theological concepts. They unpack how Dussel critiques capitalism as a form of idolatry and explore Marx's nuanced relationship with religion. The discussion also highlights Dussel's influence on liberation theology and the challenges of reconciling faith with social justice. Their insights breathe new life into Marxist thought, emphasizing its relevance for contemporary issues.

Kate Herrity, a research fellow at King's College, Cambridge, specializes in sound and sensory experiences in prisons. In their conversation, they explore the chaotic soundscape of HMP Midtown, discussing how auditory elements shape inmates' daily lives and survival. Herrity also delves into the symbolism of 'potting' and its ties to violence, and how sound influences power dynamics between inmates and staff. They highlight the emotional connections to music and memories, and the broader implications of sound on identity and mental health within these confinement spaces.

Peter Hart-Brinson, an associate professor at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, dives into how the LGBTQ movement has reshaped American attitudes toward gay marriage. He explores generational differences in perceptions through engaging data and personal interviews. Highlights include the cultural clash from the early '90s shift in sexuality views, nuanced attitudes post-1992, and the evolution of marriage meaning across generations. Hart-Brinson's insights push for a reevaluation of what defines generational identities today.

Christopher R. Matthews is a Nottingham-based social scientist and author of 'Doing Good Social Science.' He shares his insights on immersive experiences that reveal the complexities of social life and highlights the importance of context in research. Matthews discusses the dual structure of his book, providing guidance for both early-career and seasoned academics. He explores the challenges of traditional vs. self-publishing and advocates for creative control in academia. Using boxing and the sea as metaphors, he illustrates how deep engagement enhances research insights.