New Books in Sociology

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.

In this engaging discussion, Adam J. Berinsky, Mitsui Professor of Political Science at MIT and director of the Political Experiments Research Lab, delves into the persistence of political rumors and misinformation. He explains how partisanship and conspiratorial thinking contribute to belief in false claims. The conversation highlights the role of political elites in spreading misinformation and the psychological factors that make everyone susceptible. Berinsky emphasizes the need for informed citizen engagement and empathetic communication to combat these damaging narratives.

Tuomas Tammisto, a socio-cultural anthropologist and research fellow at Tampere University, dives into his book exploring the complex lives of the Mengen people in Papua New Guinea. He discusses their intricate relationships with land, resource extraction, and external influences like NGOs and corporations. Tammisto also highlights the cultural significance of traditional lament songs, the challenges of logging, and how communal labor shapes identity. The podcast reveals the delicate balance between environmental conservation and community needs in an ever-evolving socio-political landscape.

Becky Yang Hsu, an Associate Professor of Sociology at Georgetown University, dives into the dynamic interplay of family and community in China. She discusses how individuals navigate strict governmental controls through informal social ties, highlighting compelling cases such as a mother's advocacy for neurodivergent children and unique burial rituals that strengthen community bonds. Hsu's insights reveal how contemporary Chinese society redefines familial roles and cultural practices, showcasing the extraordinary impact of everyday actions in times of change.

In this engaging discussion, Musa al-Gharbi, a sociologist and assistant professor at Stony Brook University, tackles the complexities of social capitalism and its impact on political leanings. He argues that the elite often undermine their own principles of equality, despite their good intentions. Al-Gharbi challenges simplified narratives around wokeness, critiques the disconnect between advocates and the communities they claim to represent, and reflects on how professions shape values and political divides in today's society.