New Books in Sociology

Jessica Vasquez-Tokos, a Sociology professor at the University of Oregon, explores the intricate dynamics of race and belonging in America. She discusses the ramifications of being viewed as a 'problem' and dives into personal narratives that illustrate how racialized identities shape experiences and aspirations. The conversation also highlights the historical context of racial inclusion, focusing on diverse communities like Indigenous, Latino, and Vietnamese Americans. Vasquez-Tokos emphasizes the need for empathy and institutional change to embrace inclusivity and address systemic inequalities.

Jaime Lee Kucinskas, an Associate Professor at Hamilton College, dives into the intricate loyalties of civil servants amid political turmoil. She reveals the moral dilemmas faced during the Trump administration, highlighting their struggle between serving the public and navigating chaotic governance. Kucinskas shares insights on the concept of 'loyal dissent' and the critical value of institutional knowledge, stressing how these dynamics shape effective public policy in times of rising autocracy.

Michael D. Gambone, a professor and author specializing in veterans' history, dives into the unique challenges faced by American veterans in society today. He discusses the profound disconnect between the celebrated image of veterans and the misunderstandings that often accompany it. Gambone explores the evolving GI Bill's impact on education, the specific struggles women face within the VA system, and the complex relationship between veterans and popular culture. He emphasizes the need for better integration of veterans into civilian life and the significant role they play in American social history.

Krista N. Dalton, an Associate Professor of Religious Studies at Kenyon College, explores how early rabbis emerged as experts in Jewish Late Antiquity. She discusses the significant role of social relationships and donor networks that shaped rabbinic authority beyond mere scholarship. Dalton reveals how everyday interactions, like dinner parties, bolstered their status and expertise. She also humorously examines the complex hospitality practices that intertwined financial support with rabbinic integrity, shedding light on the enduring dynamics of trust and recognition.

In this engaging discussion, journalist and educator Samuel Western shares insights from his work, including his recent book. He dives into the transformative year of 1889, revealing how progressive values once flourished in the American West, such as women’s voting rights and anti-monopoly laws. Western explores the contradiction between those ideals and today's hyper-individualism, advocating for a shift toward sustainable agriculture and community stewardship. It's a thought-provoking examination of history, politics, and the potential for change in the High Plains and Northern Rockies.

Dmitri N. Shalin, a Professor of Sociology at the University of Nevada, sheds light on the enigmatic life of Erving Goffman, one of sociology's greats. They explore Goffman's immigrant roots and how personal tragedies shaped his sociological theories. Shalin discusses the significance of the Erving Goffman Archives in revealing Goffman's insights on mental health, identity, and social dynamics. The conversation dives into Goffman’s evolving perspectives on gender and the poignant impact of his wife’s struggles on his work, providing a rich, humanized view of the scholar.

In this interview, Erin Pritchard, a Senior Lecturer at Liverpool Hope University and expert in disability studies, delves into her groundbreaking work on midgetism. She uncovers the pervasive exploitation and discrimination faced by people with dwarfism, challenging societal assumptions that support harmful stereotypes. Pritchard critiques the concept of 'midget entertainment,' contrasting it with respectful representations. She emphasizes the need for inclusivity, particularly in environments designed for non-normate individuals, to foster understanding and acceptance.

Michelle H. S. Ho, an Assistant Professor of feminist and queer cultural studies at the National University of Singapore, delves into emergent gender identities thriving in Tokyo's pink economies. She discusses how cross-dressing cafes in Akihabara challenge traditional gender norms and foster innovative self-expressions. By examining the interplay between gender, capitalism, and popular culture, Ho offers fresh insights into the fluidity of identities, while rethinking queer theory's applicability beyond Western contexts. Her work underscores the vibrant survival strategies of transgender and non-binary individuals in unique spaces.

Toine van Teeffelen, a Dutch anthropologist and peace activist, shares his journey growing up in Bethlehem, weaving together personal anecdotes and broader sociopolitical insights. He discusses how his family navigates everyday life under occupation, emphasizing the resilience embodied in the Palestinian concept of sumud. The conversation sheds light on the unique intersection of Palestinian culture and Christianity, the challenges faced by children in conflict zones, and the importance of creative nonviolent resistance amid adversity.

In this engaging discussion, Abdul Wohab, an assistant professor at North-South University in Dhaka, dives into the complexities of secularism and Islam in Bangladesh. He explores historical dynamics and contemporary challenges since independence, emphasizing the unique interplay of national identity and religion. Wohab argues that despite rising religious fervor, Bangladesh's pluralistic cultural identity prevails. He also highlights shifts in education, noting a trend towards madrasa schooling and its implications for societal narratives. A thought-provoking look at the future of secularism in a changing world!