New Books in Sociology

In a fascinating conversation, Carrie M. Lane, Chair and Professor of American Studies at California State University, Fullerton, delves into the world of professional organizing. She explores how this female-dominated profession emerged and adapted in a modern context, shedding light on gender dynamics and the emotional depth involved in decluttering. Lane discusses the nuances of client relationships and the evolving landscape shaped by the pandemic, while critiquing society's overconsumption and the complexities of managing inherited possessions.

Timothy Gitzen, an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at Wake Forest University, delves into the complexities of queer identity in South Korea amidst national security concerns. He explores how queer Koreans are perceived as viral threats in a context of ongoing militarization. Gitzen discusses mundane acts of resistance against stigma and the impact of COVID-19 on the queer community. He highlights the intertwining of nationalism and security, as well as the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ activists in reclaiming their narratives against societal and governmental pressures.

Shehnaz Haqqani, an assistant professor at Mercer University and author of "Feminism, Tradition and Change in Contemporary Islam," discusses the evolving landscape of Islamic law and gender. She highlights how certain legal rulings, like child marriage, can be negotiated, while others, such as women's interfaith marriages, face resistance. Haqqani emphasizes the importance of personal agency and the intersection of tradition with modern values, delving into the complexities of gender justice in contemporary Islam.

Lucy Noakes, a Professor of modern history at the University of Essex and president of the Royal Historical Society, delves into the profound themes of death and grief during WWII Britain. She explores how societal attitudes towards mourning evolved, contrasting expressions of loss from the First and Second World Wars. The conversation also touches on governmental policies for managing civilian deaths, public mourning rituals, and the shifting narratives of remembrance influenced by colonial perspectives, revealing the complex interplay of personal grief and collective memory.

Pankaj Jain, an expert in visual anthropology and Indian cinema, delves into the intricate portrayal of religious communities in Bollywood. He discusses how films reflect social issues, gender dynamics, and environmental themes. Jain critiques the representation of Hindus and Muslims, revealing the complexities of inter-communal narratives. He also touches on the historical significance of classic films and their influence on modern societal understanding. His insights highlight the rich tapestry of cultural narratives threaded through the world’s largest film industry.

In this episode, Emily Kenway shares insights from her powerful new book Who Cares: The Hidden Crisis of Caregiving, and How We Solve It (Seal Press, 2023), an eye-opening exploration of the invisible world of unpaid caregivers. Drawing from her own experience caring for her terminally ill mother, Emily sheds light on the challenges faced by millions who provide critical care while being marginalized, unsupported, and overburdened. In our conversation, she urges us to reimagine a society that places care at its core, rather than on the sidelines. This conversation is a call to action for all of us to recognize and support those who give so much and ask for so little in return. Tune in to hear why Who Cares? is a book for everyone, now and in the future.Madison’s Notes is the podcast of Princeton University’s James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions.Contributions to and/or sponsorship of any speaker does not constitute departmental or institutional endorsement of the specific program, speakers or views presented. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/sociology

Benjamin Shestakofsky, Assistant Professor of Sociology at the University of Pennsylvania, dives into his research on venture capital's effects on work and innovation. He discusses how venture funding exacerbates inequalities while driving a relentless focus on scaling. By sharing insights from his ethnographic research, he reveals the complex dynamics of high-pressure startup culture and the challenges of maintaining ethical practices amidst investor demands. The conversation also touches on the evolving relationships between algorithms and human labor in the tech sector.

In this engaging conversation, Kristin Peterson, an anthropology associate professor at UC Irvine, and Valerie Olson, an environmental anthropologist, unveil their handbook, exploring the innovative concept of “multidimensional research design.” They share how this approach allows researchers to view subjects from multiple angles, integrating diverse perspectives. The duo emphasizes the importance of collaboration and creativity in research, providing hands-on strategies that foster community and enhance understanding in the social sciences. Dive into their insights on cultivating compelling research projects!

Richard Evans, a distinguished scholar on Nazi Germany and author of The Third Reich Trilogy, delves into the lives of key members of Hitler's regime in his latest book, 'Hitler's People.' He uncovers the personal ambitions and failings of notorious figures like Goebbels and Himmler, revealing the human side of those responsible for immense atrocities. Evans emphasizes the importance of individual narratives within broader historical contexts and warns against the rise of authoritarianism, urging a commitment to historical accuracy in today's climate of misinformation.

Richard Evans, a leading expert on Nazi Germany and author of the acclaimed The Third Reich Trilogy, discusses his latest work, *Hitler's People*. He delves into the intricate lives of key Nazi figures, revealing their personal ambitions and failings. The conversation touches on the evolution of Holocaust discourse and the moral responsibilities of historians today. Evans highlights how the ordinary backgrounds of these individuals fueled extraordinary horrors, drawing parallels with contemporary populism and the complexities of historical interpretation.