New Books in Sociology

New Books Network

Episodes

Mentioned books

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Apr 5, 2025 • 47min

Becky Yang Hsu, "The Extraordinary in the Mundane: Family and Forms of Community in China" (Columbia UP, 2024)

Becky Yang Hsu, an Associate Professor of Sociology at Georgetown University, dives into the dynamic interplay of family and community in China. She discusses how individuals navigate strict governmental controls through informal social ties, highlighting compelling cases such as a mother's advocacy for neurodivergent children and unique burial rituals that strengthen community bonds. Hsu's insights reveal how contemporary Chinese society redefines familial roles and cultural practices, showcasing the extraordinary impact of everyday actions in times of change.
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19 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 46min

We Have Never Been Woke: A Conversation with Musa al-Gharbi

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.
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12 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 36min

Colonial Origins of Democracy and Dictatorship: A Discussion with Alexander Lee and Jack Paine

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.
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Apr 2, 2025 • 1h 6min

Tiffany D. Joseph, "Not All In: Race, Immigration, and Health Care Exclusion in the Age of Obamacare" (Johns Hopkins UP, 2025)

Tiffany D. Joseph, an associate professor of sociology and international affairs at Northeastern University, discusses the stark disparities immigrant communities face in healthcare access despite progressive reforms. She reveals how race and legal status impact coverage, particularly for Brazilian, Dominican, and Salvadoran populations. Joseph highlights personal anecdotes that underscore systemic barriers and challenges these groups encounter. The conversation urges a reevaluation of policies to ensure genuine inclusivity, advocating for reforms that connect legislation with the lived experiences of all individuals.
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Mar 31, 2025 • 40min

Hemangini Gupta, "Experimental Times: Startup Capitalism and Feminist Futures in India" (U California Press, 2024)

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.
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Mar 28, 2025 • 1h 8min

Syaifudin Zuhri, "Wali Pitu and Muslim Pilgrimage in Bali, Indonesia: Inventing a Sacred Tradition" (Leiden UP, 2022)

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.
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Mar 26, 2025 • 48min

David Oakeshott, "Schooling, Conflict and Peace in the Southwestern Pacific: Becoming Enemy Friends" (Bristol UP, 2024)

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.
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Mar 26, 2025 • 47min

Farah Ahamed, "Period Matters: Menstruation in South Asia" (Pan Macmillan, 2022)

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.
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5 snips
Mar 25, 2025 • 1h 1min

James M. O’Toole, "For I Have Sinned: The Rise and Fall of Catholic Confession in America" (Harvard UP, 2025)

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.
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Mar 24, 2025 • 57min

Amy Adamczyk, "Fetal Positions: Understanding Cross-National Public Opinion about Abortion" (Oxford UP, 2025)

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.

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