New Books in Sociology

Ken Conca, a Professor at American University, dives into the heart of Ellicott City, where he faced two devastating floods in just over a year. Drawing from his experience and research on environmental politics, he explores community resilience amidst climate change. The conversation reveals the tension between preserving local identity and adapting to future challenges. Conca emphasizes the necessity of inclusive governance and the role of community narratives in shaping effective responses to environmental risks. A thought-provoking discussion on navigating resilience and identity!

Elyssa Ford, a history professor at Northwest Missouri State University, and Rebecca Scofield, an associate professor at the University of Idaho, dive into their compelling book, 'Slapping Leather: Queer Cowfolx at the Gay Rodeo.' They explore how the gay rodeo acts as a vibrant space for self-expression and tests traditional masculinity. They share insights on co-authoring during the pandemic, the complex interplay of cowboy culture and LGBTQ identity, and the unique societal tensions within this expressive community. Their passion for inclusivity shines throughout the conversation.

Darryl Campbell, author of "Fatal Abstraction" and a former tech worker at Amazon and Uber, dives into the perils of managerialism in the tech industry. He discusses how corporate emphasis on financial gains leads to disastrous decisions, citing examples like the Boeing 737 MAX. Campbell critiques the superficial understanding of technology among managers and calls for a shift towards empowering engineers and prioritizing ethics. He highlights the ethical dilemmas of AI and stresses the need for systemic change in tech leadership practices.

In this engaging discussion, Tupur Chatterjee, an Assistant Professor specializing in global film and media, explores the evolution of moviegoing in urban India. She delves into how the multiplex has reshaped cultural experiences, particularly for middle-class women, intertwining cinema and shopping malls. Chatterjee discusses the impact of COVID-19 on moviegoing, the rise of streaming, and how films like 'Pink' and 'NH10' challenge societal illusions. Her insights reveal the intricate connections between media, architecture, and urban identity.

Cora Lingling Xu, an Associate Professor at Durham University and expert in educational mobilities, delves into the concept of 'time inheritance' in higher education in China. She reveals how disparities in access to time drive social inequalities and affect educational mobility. The discussion touches on urban versus rural experiences, the impact of the hukou system, and how socio-economic backgrounds shape students' futures. Through her extensive research, Xu uncovers the nuances of time as a social construct, suggesting that understanding these dynamics is essential for addressing systemic educational disparities.

Deana Jovanović, an Assistant Professor of Cultural Anthropology, delves into the lives of residents in Bor, Serbia, a town caught between past prosperity and current decline. She explores how local authorities stage promises of a brighter future amidst economic instability. Jovanović highlights the ambivalence of hope and despair, reflecting on how these theatrical projections influence the community's aspirations. Through ethnographic insights, she reveals the complexities of navigating survival and change in a post-socialist landscape, where distant futures feel increasingly out of reach.

Dr. Agnieszka Pasieka, a sociocultural anthropologist at the University of Montreal, dives into the world of far-right youth activists across Europe. She explores how these activists, from varied backgrounds, find community and purpose in radical nationalism. The discussion unveils their deep emotional intelligence and the complexities of engaging with such ideologies. Dr. Pasieka shares her harrowing fieldwork experiences and emphasizes the need for dialogue, understanding, and empathy in confronting these challenging narratives.

Maron E. Greenleaf, a cultural anthropologist and political ecologist, delves into her research on forest carbon offsets in the Brazilian Amazon. She uncovers how green capitalism intertwines with environmental law and affects local communities, revealing the socio-political dynamics of carbon offset projects. Greenleaf also explores multi-species relations and the historical ties to the rubber industry, highlighting the tensions between conservation and development. The discussion addresses deforestation's economic impacts and the complex nature of land rights amid Brazil's evolving political landscape.

Eunji Kim, a political science professor at Columbia and media scholar, dives deep into how reality TV shapes perceptions of the American Dream. She reveals that shows like American Idol and MasterChef create a misleading sense of meritocracy that contrasts sharply with growing income inequality. Kim discusses the shift from news to entertainment, examining how this affects public opinions and political engagement. By exploring the allure of rags-to-riches tales, she highlights their role in fostering optimism while obscuring economic realities.

Ruth Braunstein, an Associate Professor of sociology at the University of Connecticut, delves into the moral complexities of taxpaying in America. She shares stories of tax defiers, antiwar activists, and those who advocate for taxation as a civic duty. Braunstein compares taxation to sacred rituals, exploring how collective beliefs shape taxpayer perceptions. The podcast highlights the emotional weight of taxes, contrasting individual vs. collective taxpayer experiences and the ongoing debates around tax morality. A thought-provoking discussion on civic responsibility and societal values!