New Books in Sociology

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.

In a captivating discussion, Alexander Lee, an expert on political economy and colonial legacies, and Jack Paine, a scholar of democratic structures, dive into the intricate relationship between colonialism and democracy. They argue that prolonged exposure to competitive colonial institutions fosters stable democracies post-independence. The conversation explores how historical electoral processes shape modern political dynamics and emphasizes that imperfect elections can still nurture democratic ideals, revealing the enduring complexities of colonial legacies.

Hemangini Gupta, a Lecturer in Gender and Global Politics at the University of Edinburgh and author of "Experimental Times," discusses the evolution of Bengaluru as a startup metropolis. She highlights how startup culture intersects with feminist ideals, revealing the challenges women face in entrepreneurship. The conversation dives into labor dynamics, the impact of technology on gender and caste, and the complex experiences of workers navigating this precarious landscape. Gupta sheds light on the everyday experimentation that sustains life in India's rapidly changing economy.

Saifuddin Zuhri, a lecturer specializing in Indonesian Islam, discusses his book on the Wali Pitu pilgrimage tradition in Bali, examining its emergence as a sacred practice. He highlights the fusion of Javanese and Balinese Islamic cultures, and how religious tourism impacts local economies. Zuhri also addresses the complexities of saint veneration in a predominantly Hindu society and the evolving identities of Muslim communities. Additionally, he explores tensions over authenticity and the intertwining of spirituality with economic opportunities in contemporary Indonesia.

Farah Ahamed, editor of the groundbreaking anthology that explores menstruation in South Asia, shares her insights as a Kenyan lawyer and human rights advocate. She delves into the cultural stigma and myths surrounding menstruation, highlighting the need for greater awareness and education. The conversation touches on topics like period poverty, the critical role of language in shaping perceptions, and the intersectionality of gender and caste. Ahamed's work aims to amplify diverse voices and challenge taboos, sparking urgent conversations about menstrual health.

David Oakeshott, a postdoctoral fellow at the Australian National University, shares his deep insights into post-conflict education in places like Bougainville and the Solomon Islands. He discusses how youth must confront the violent histories of their families while fostering connections with former adversaries. The conversation unveils the powerful concept of 'enemy friends' and explores the impact of reconciliation ceremonies on schooling. Oakeshott also addresses how state narratives often clash with personal relationships in educational settings, shaping national identity after conflict.

James M. O’Toole, author of "For I Have Sinned: The Rise and Fall of Catholic Confession in America", explores the intriguing history of Catholic confession from its integral role in American Catholic life to its sharp decline since the 1970s. He discusses how societal changes, the rise of psychology, and shifting attitudes toward the Church have transformed this once-sacred ritual. O’Toole highlights the impact of cultural dynamics, including gender roles, and the challenges of revitalizing this sacrament amidst modern pressures.

Dr. Amy Adamczyk, a sociology professor at John Jay College and CUNY, delves into global abortion attitudes in her new book. She explores why abortion views vary dramatically between countries like the liberal U.S. and settled China. Key topics include the influence of religion, economic development, and societal norms on public opinion. Adamczyk discusses cultural shifts in Ireland and Poland, and how gender inequality and legal frameworks shape personal decisions. Her insights highlight the complex interplay of beliefs and behaviors across different nations.

Tracie Canada, an Andrew W. Mellon Assistant Professor of Cultural Anthropology at Duke University, shines a light on the hidden struggles of Black college football players. She discusses how these athletes navigate a system that commodifies them, revealing the painful discrepancies between the sport's glamorous image and their harsh realities. Through exploring themes of race, familial support, and the everyday resistance to exploitation, Canada emphasizes the strong kinship bonds among players and critiques the misleading narratives surrounding college football.

Yunis Alam, Head of Sociology and Criminology at the University of Bradford, dives into the intricate relationships between cars, race, and class. He discusses how vehicles symbolize status and identity, particularly within the Pakistani community in Bradford. Alam explores the racialization of car culture and its implications for Muslim communities, revealing how certain cars can reinforce stereotypes. He also shares humorous anecdotes about personal car ownership while reflecting on the dual nature of cars as both status symbols and sources of societal conflict.