New Books in Sociology

Aidan McGarry, a Professor of international politics at Loughborough University, shares profound insights into marginalized communities' struggle for political voice. He introduces an innovative framework of autonomy, representation, and constitution, illustrating it with case studies of LGBTIQ activists in India and Roma mobilization in Europe. McGarry highlights the vital role of protest in democratic processes and the complexities of identity within activism, emphasizing that silence can also serve as a powerful mode of expression in the fight for recognition.

Dr. Carl Waitz, an attending psychologist at Boston Children's Hospital and faculty at Harvard Medical School, delves into youth mental health crises in his new book. He discusses alarming statistics, including rising suicide rates among adolescents. The conversation explores how social media shapes youth identity, the relevance of initiation rites, and the impact of consumer capitalism. Waitz emphasizes the necessity of supportive environments and psychoanalytic approaches to navigate these challenges, blending personal insight with professional expertise.

Joshua Barker, a Professor of anthropology at the University of Toronto, explores policing in Bandung, Indonesia, through his latest work. He discusses how fear and violence shape the city’s governance and the historical roots of societal fear. Barker sheds light on the unique role of neighborhood watches and informal authority figures. He also examines the impact of communication technologies on modern policing. His insights reveal the messy interplay between urban order and community dynamics against a backdrop of colonial legacies.

Briony Hannell, a Lecturer in sociology at the University of Manchester, delves into the captivating relationship between fan culture and feminism, particularly on Tumblr. She discusses how digital communities shape feminist identities and narratives. Expect insights on the inclusive and exclusive dynamics within fandoms and the transformative impact of social media on feminist discourse. Hannell also reflects on the evolution of these communities, illustrating the shift from Tumblr's prominence to the emergence of platforms like TikTok in contemporary feminist discussions.

Joseph Straus, a Distinguished Professor of Music at CUNY, shares insights from his new book on the cultural narratives surrounding aging musicians. He discusses how older artists challenge ageist stereotypes, revealing that aging can enhance creativity. The conversation explores the importance of recognizing older musicians' contributions and advocates for interdisciplinary collaboration to rethink aging's role in music. Additionally, it highlights how societal attitudes marginalize older characters in opera and emphasizes the unique perspectives that older musicians bring to the arts.

Luiz Valério P. Trindade, a PhD in sociology and expert on online hate speech, dives deep into the global impact of social media. He explores the cultural nuances influencing online abuse across the Hispanophone, Portuguesophone, and Italianophone regions. The conversation uncovers how gender, race, and political movements shape hate speech narratives, particularly in Brazil. Trindade also addresses cyberbullying in Italy and the urgent need for legal reforms. His insights highlight the complex interplay between online behavior and societal prejudices.

Magnus Course, Chair of Social Anthropology at the University of Edinburgh, shares his transformative experiences with the Mapuche people of Chile. He explores the powerful archetypes of the witch, clown, and usurper, revealing how these figures mirror both personal and anthropological failures. The conversation touches on themes of kinship, identity, and the intricate balance between cultural preservation and societal integration. Course also highlights the role of dreams in Mapuche culture as gateways to understanding, showcasing a rich tapestry of narratives that redefine failure as a path to resilience.

Seungsook Moon, a sociology professor at Vassar College and expert on South Korea, discusses her latest book on civic activism and neoliberalism. She illuminates how citizens' organizations emerged from a democratization movement and tackle socioeconomic challenges. The conversation examines the interplay between civic activism and state governance, highlighting the evolution from top-down to collaborative power dynamics. Moon also explores the role of local feminist organizations and the impact of neoliberal policies on women's employment, underscoring the complexities of promoting democratic ideals in a shifting landscape.

Debra J. Davidson, a professor of environmental sociology at the University of Alberta, explores how our emotions drive our responses to the climate crisis. She uncovers the power of empathy in fostering collective action while addressing social divides. Davidson challenges entrenched systems of capitalism and patriarchy, advocating for awareness to inspire change. The discussion emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate impacts and the benefits of democratic governance over authoritarianism, highlighting the importance of diverse perspectives in climate action.

Alisse Waterston, a Presidential Scholar and Professor Emerita at John Jay College, discusses her poignant book, 'My Father's Wars.' She reflects on her father's migration across continents shaped by war, weaving personal narrative with anthropology. The conversation highlights the fusion of storytelling and introspective ethnography, exploring identity through change and the emotional complexities of family histories. Waterston also emphasizes innovative multimedia approaches to enhance ethnographic writing, illustrating how personal experiences can challenge traditional academia.