New Books in Sociology

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.

Sujatha Fernandes, a sociologist and author of "Cuban Hustle: Culture, Politics, Everyday Life," explores the vibrant resilience of Cuban culture. She discusses personal narratives that reveal the complexities of contemporary Cuban society and the significance of the 'resolver' mentality in overcoming scarcity. Fernandes highlights innovative community-driven entrepreneurship projects and the contributions of the Afro-Cuban movement. Additionally, she tackles how COVID-19 has impacted Cuba, showcasing the nation's strong public health response amidst economic struggles.

Nara Milanich, a Professor of history at Barnard College and author of "Paternity: The Elusive Quest for the Father," delves into the complex evolution of fatherhood. She argues that paternity is socially constructed rather than just a biological fact, influenced by historical and cultural contexts. Milanich discusses how pioneering paternity testing, particularly in Brazil, shaped societal views of fatherhood. She highlights the differing applications of paternity testing and its implications for marginalized groups, showcasing the intricate relationship between science, law, and family dynamics.

Swethaa Ballakrishnen, an Assistant Professor of Law and a sociolegal scholar at UC Irvine, delves into the intriguing phenomenon of gender parity among India's elite professional circles. She discusses how the elite legal firms, despite being male-dominated, offer a surprising representation of women. Ballakrishnen explores the unexpected mechanisms behind this 'accidental feminism'—from gendered socialization to family support—contrasting it with women's struggles in consulting. Her insights challenge traditional narratives about progress and highlight the complexities of achieving real equality.

Fernando Domínguez Rubio, an Associate Professor at UC San Diego, dives into the fascinating world of art conservation in major museums. He discusses the daily challenges faced by conservators, from preserving contemporary artworks to navigating complex museum dynamics. Rubiio emphasizes the importance of teamwork and innovation in the preservation process, while exploring the ethical implications of fragility in art and life. His insights reveal how fragility shapes our understanding of cultural narratives and the role of museums in society.

Shannon Mattern, a Professor of Anthropology at the New School for Social Research and author of "A City Is Not a Computer," dives into the complexities of urban life. She critiques the reduction of cities to data systems, arguing for a broader understanding that includes indigenous knowledge. Mattern emphasizes the importance of libraries as community touchpoints and advocates for diverse, inclusive urban planning. She also discusses the impact of collaboration in academia, revealing how diverse voices can reshape scholarly discourse and future urban designs.

Shannan Clark, an Associate Professor of History at Montclair University and author of "The Making of the American Creative Class," discusses the formation of New York’s creative class during the 20th century. She explores the influential role of advertising and the New Deal in shaping culture worker experiences. Labor struggles and unionization efforts are highlighted, revealing their impact on today’s creative industries. The conversation also touches on the legacy of initiatives like the WPA and the Design Laboratory, showcasing the enduring challenges faced by culture workers.

Joanna Mizielińska, an associate professor at Collegium Civitas in Poland, investigates the nuances of queer families in Central and Eastern Europe. She discusses how these families defy conventional norms, shedding light on their unique dynamics and experiences in a predominantly heteronormative society. The conversation touches on queer parenthood, the tension between chosen families and origins, and the struggles faced by queer individuals in navigating domesticity. Mizielińska challenges prevailing Western narratives and emphasizes the importance of local contexts in understanding queer kinship.