New Books in Sociology

Oskar Jensen, a historian specializing in 19th-century London street life, dives into the vibrant yet harsh world depicted in his book 'Vagabonds.' He explores the lives of marginalized individuals, revealing their resilience through personal narratives that speak volumes of their struggles. Jensen discusses the irony of the 19th-century vigilante welfare system, contrasting the visible poverty of the time with hidden challenges in today's cities. He also highlights the experiences of street children and the complex realities faced by women and immigrants in Victorian London.

Ágnes Györke, an associate professor and leading researcher on cosmopolitan ethics in urban contexts, teams up with Tamás Juhász, who specializes in British and American literature and Central European film. Together, they discuss the often-overlooked role of Central and Eastern European cities in urban studies. Their work explores Budapest's cultural evolution, the urban-rural dichotomy, and how historical moments shape identity. They also reflect on the impact of the COVID pandemic on urban culture research, highlighting ongoing challenges and future avenues for exploration.

Marc Schuilenburg, a Professor at Erasmus University and an expert in digital surveillance, shares profound insights from his book on the persistent nature of hysteria in modern society. He argues that our culture, fraught with media frenzy and heightened alarmism, cultivates a collective emotional state that influences politics and public safety discussions. Exploring the intersection of crime, media, and public perception, he highlights how irrational responses are often shaped by media narratives, ultimately questioning the impact of this hysteria on community well-being and governance.

Mukulika Banerjee, a Professor at the London School of Economics, delves into the intricacies of democracy in rural India. She reveals how agrarian communities cultivate democratic values through everyday practices like cooperation and rituals. The conversation highlights the experiences of marginalized groups in the electoral process, the transformative impact of land reforms, and the connection between village dynamics and broader political outcomes. Banerjee's insights challenge traditional views, making democracy a lived experience rather than a mere institutional framework.

Randy Fertel, author of "Winging It: Improv’s Power & Peril in the Time of AI & Trump," dives into the fascinating world of improvisation. He discusses how improv challenges cultural norms and influences everything from literature to politics. Fertel shares insights on the intersection of advertising and identity, using iconic examples to illustrate societal expectations. He also critiques the spontaneity in modern governance, emphasizing its risks. Through engaging anecdotes, he highlights the profound impact of improvisation on creativity in today's landscape.

Nick Couldry, a Professor of Media at LSE, tackles the pressing issue of whether human solidarity can survive in the age of social media. He discusses how Big Tech has taken control of our social interactions, creating artificial environments that harm community bonds. Couldry also critiques current social media models for exacerbating polarization and youth mental health issues, advocating for a redesign to foster solidarity. He emphasizes the need for ethical reforms in AI and capitalism to protect vulnerable populations amidst these challenges.

Emily Mitchell-Eaton, an Assistant Professor of Geography at Colgate University, dives deep into U.S. imperialism's effects on migration, particularly for Marshall Islanders. She reveals how the Compact of Free Association offers unique migration rights while perpetuating power dynamics. Mitchell-Eaton discusses the surprising migration of Marshallese to formerly all-white Springdale, Arkansas, intertwining race, citizenship, and labor in her analysis. Her research sheds light on the complex lived experiences of these communities and the geopolitical influences shaping their narratives.

Melissa Johnston, a Lecturer in peace and conflict studies at the University of Queensland, dives into the complexities of gender interventions in Timor-Leste. She criticizes the uneven outcomes of programs like microfinance and gender-responsive budgeting, arguing they often reinforce existing patriarchal structures. Johnston emphasizes the importance of understanding local contexts and the interplay of political and economic forces. Her insights urge a reevaluation of peacebuilding strategies to genuinely empower women in post-conflict settings.

Hannah Gould, a cultural anthropologist from the University of Melbourne, dives into Japan's rich yet evolving funeral practices. She discusses the blend of deep traditions like ancestor veneration with modern trends such as 'tree burials' and 'eternal memorial graves.' Gould highlights how urbanization and smaller family sizes impact these customs, creating new challenges and innovations in mourning. She also examines the significance of Buddhist beliefs in cremation rituals, showcasing a culture that honors the past while adapting to contemporary realities.

Neil Atkinson, host of The Anfield Wrap and author of "Transformer: Klopp, the Revolution of a Club and Culture," dives into how Jurgen Klopp transformed Liverpool Football Club and its culture. He discusses the financial dynamics in English football and innovative ideas for restructuring the league. Atkinson reflects on how Klopp's personal traits and genuine presence influenced his coaching success, while also addressing the global concerns of fan engagement and the impact of commercialism in the sport.