Peoples & Things

Benjamin Waterhouse, a full Professor of History at UNC Chapel Hill, delves into the rise of self-employment in America since the 1970s. He critiques the glorification of entrepreneurship, highlighting its often negative implications for those who pursue it out of necessity rather than opportunity. The conversation touches on the myths of small business success, the realities of job quality, and the seductive allure of individualism in a complex economic landscape. They also hint at an upcoming project exploring the cultural and political history of the 1990s.

Kate McDonald, an Associate Professor of History at UC Santa Barbara specializing in Asian mobility and labor, sheds light on the rich narratives of transport history. She discusses her work on rickshaws and railroads, emphasizing the significance of human-powered transport in understanding labor dynamics. McDonald explores the historical protest movements of rickshaw pullers in Japan and promotes a more inclusive approach to technology studies. Her insights advocate for a global perspective that highlights marginalized voices in the history of mobility and labor.

Paula Bialski, a digital sociology professor, and Lee Vinsel discuss 'Middle Tech,' advocating for embracing 'good enough' in software work. They explore balancing excellence and imperfection in various fields, including software development and parenting. The conversation touches on personal narratives in software development, societal pressures, and the challenges of managing expectations in tech environments. They also discuss the role of AI technology and the concept of 'small tech' as a sustainable alternative in the industry.

Trish Kahle, Assistant Professor at Georgetown University-Qatar, discusses the labor history of electricity systems, energy citizenship, and the emerging field of energy humanities. They explore the intersection of labor history and technology, the significance of energy workers, and the interconnectedness of energy and human behavior.

In a lively chat, danah boyd and Lee Vinsel cover topics ranging from teen social lives in the digital age to the productivity paradox of digital technologies. Insights on collaborative research in AI implementation, regulations on children's online safety, and the transition to census analysis are also explored. The discussion ends with reflections on power dynamics, capitalism in tech, and challenges in digital platform user experience.

Professor Jennifer Hart discusses African mobility and infrastructure in Ghana, exploring historical influences on urban development. The conversation touches on the emergence of pirate lorries, challenges in urban transport, and adapting research methods during the pandemic. They also emphasize the importance of integrating humanities and social sciences in infrastructure projects for more inclusive solutions.

Bryan Hanson, Ombudsperson for Virginia Tech's Graduate School, discusses Disrupting Academic Bullying, addressing harassment in academic environments, the role of an ombud in conflict resolution, understanding academic bullying's impact and ways to navigate nonviolent communication. They delve into the importance of addressing bullying in higher education through policy changes and supportive cultures, highlighting the need for restorative approaches and inclusive environments.

MC Forelle, Assistant Professor of Engineering & Society, discusses 'chipification' in cars, right to repair debates, auto industry subscription models, and the emergence of countercultures in the automotive sector. Also explores technology in films, sustainability, and reimagining regulatory systems.

Asif Siddiqi, a history professor, discusses Soviet space history, Russian cosmism, and gender dynamics in pop songs. They explore the roots of space exploration, global space infrastructures, and upcoming projects in technology history.

Historian and comedian Sean Vanatta discusses the history of credit cards in the US, highlighting regulatory struggles, consumer credit evolution, and financial system complexities. The podcast explores the impact of technology on money, consumer credit during the Great Depression, and missed opportunities for financial reform.