New Books in Sociology

Jacinto Cuvi, an Associate Professor at Université Libre de Brussels, dives into the struggles of street vendors in São Paulo, Brazil. He uncovers how these workers navigate the complex web of legality, revealing a stark contrast between municipal laws and the vendors' lived experiences. Cuvi discusses the precarious nature of their rights and how it affects their strategies for survival. He also touches on the impact of cynical political practices on their livelihoods and hints at his future research exploring informality within bureaucracies.

Robert F. Carley, an Associate Professor at Texas A&M, specializes in cultural approaches to social movements and racial politics. He discusses how tactics in social movements serve as a public expression of injustice rather than just means to achieve goals. Drawing on Antonio Gramsci, Carley explores the relationship between race and mobilization, emphasizing the importance of ideological contention in shaping movement tactics. He also presents new concepts for analyzing the tactical practices of protests involving race, linking historical insights to contemporary issues.

In this engaging discussion, Xiang Biao, a social anthropologist and director at the Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology, shares insights from his impactful book, Self as Method. He emphasizes the importance of intellectual activism for China’s youth, encouraging them to think independently. The conversation explores how social media influences polarization, the distinction between self-improvement and systemic change, and the significance of local observation for individual agency. Xiang also discusses the intersection of theory and public engagement, highlighting new research on ambition.

Tanja Petrovic, a Ljubljana-based anthropologist and author of "Utopia of the Uniform," dives into the complex legacy of the Yugoslav People's Army. She explores how military service forged lasting connections across diverse ethnicities, even amidst the violent conflicts of the 1990s. Petrović discusses the JNA's role as a citizenship project and its impact on concepts of solidarity and comradeship. Through rich anecdotes and thoughtful analysis, she reveals the surprising ways these memories shape post-Yugoslav identities and futures.

Susan D. Stewart, a sociology professor at Iowa State University, dives into the complexities of women's relationships with alcohol in her insightful book. She discusses the alarming rise in drinking among midlife women, attributing it to marketing, social pressures, and the changing dynamics of motherhood. Stewart shares findings from her research, including the impact of the pandemic on drinking habits and future studies on cannabis use as a potential alternative. Her candid exploration challenges stereotypes and prompts deep reflections on health and society.

Join sociologist Joel Best, a keen observer of social problems and author of Just the Facts, as he dives into why we struggle to agree on facts. He discusses how facts are socially constructed through language and shared beliefs. Best explores the roles of institutions like science and journalism in shaping these facts and the complexities of fact-checking. Additionally, he examines how denial can become an identity-forming practice, shedding light on the language that frames social issues. Expect a thought-provoking conversation that challenges your assumptions!

Shakirah E. Hudani, an urban studies scholar specializing in African cities and post-conflict transitions, delves into the intricate world of urban repair in post-genocide Rwanda. She explores how large-scale planning interacts with local memory and materials to forge reconciliation. Hudani introduces the concept of 'Minor Acts,' everyday repairs vital for social restoration. She critiques Kigali's master plans, revealing their impact on residents, and discusses ongoing themes in urban transformation as she looks toward her future research in Nairobi.

Dominic Davies, a Reader in English with expertise in postcolonial studies, and Candida Rifkind, a Professor of English specializing in life writing, delve into the rich realm of refugee comics. They discuss how these graphic narratives illuminate the complexities of displacement and challenge conventional perceptions of refugees. Key topics include the innovative storytelling techniques that evoke empathy, the representation of second-generation refugee experiences, and the comics' power to redefine identity and reveal the interplay of trauma and resilience in the face of adversity.

Katherine Eva Maich, an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Texas A&M University, explores pivotal issues surrounding domestic labor rights. She highlights the struggles of domestic workers in New York City and Lima, Peru, revealing the complexities of legal protections influenced by gender and race. Listeners will learn about the historical evolution of labor laws, the impact of advocacy, and the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized workers. Maich also discusses empowering organizing efforts that enhance skills and solidarity among domestic workers across varying legal landscapes.

Kevin Passmore, a historian specializing in fascism and the French right, dives deep into the ambitious yet ultimately flawed Maginot Line. He reveals intricate details about its impressive engineering, the lives of soldiers manning the forts, and the diverse roles of foreign labor in its construction. Passmore challenges misconceptions surrounding its purpose, emphasizing its historical impact on local communities and military strategy despite France's quick defeat during WWII. Join the discussion to unpack the myths and human stories behind this monumental project.