New Books in Political Science

Lisa Vanhala, a Professor of Political Science at UCL and author, dives into the complexities of climate change governance. She discusses her eight years of research on UN negotiations and the stark contrasts in how rich and poor countries experience climate loss. Vanhala reveals the intricate dynamics of negotiation rooms, the gaps between agreements and implementation, and the historical milestones of loss and damage frameworks. She also highlights the challenges of funding and the importance of framing in shaping policies, especially regarding climate migration.

Wolfgang Wagner, a Professor of International Security at the University of Amsterdam, dives into the intricate relationship between party politics and military interventions. He challenges the notion that foreign affairs are free from political contestation, showcasing how political parties across the left-right spectrum frame military actions differently. Discussions include the persistent contestation in U.S. foreign policy, the ideological divides affecting party positions, and the importance of party competition for democratic accountability.

Dr. Adeoye Akinola, an expert in African political economy and governance, discusses the African Union’s evolution since its inception in 2002. He reflects on the complexities of democracy in Africa, highlighting the tension between democratic ideals and recent coup waves. Akinola emphasizes the importance of youth activism and the challenges of integrating ordinary citizens into AU processes. He also explores Africa's shifting global alignments and envisions a stronger democratic framework by 2063, advocating for free elections and rule of law.

Clint Smith, a staff writer for The Atlantic and author of "How the Word Is Passed," explores the complexities of narrating America's history of slavery. He shares insights on visiting landmark sites like Monticello and Angola Prison, highlighting how these places reflect contradictions in American memory. Smith discusses the challenges of presenting painful truths without alienating visitors. He also emphasizes the importance of oral histories and community conversations about memorials, advocating for thoughtful public history that acknowledges the past.

Ihnji Jon, a lecturer in international politics, discusses her groundbreaking book on urban environmentalism. She explores how climate change reshapes cities, emphasizing that local governance often leads the way in pro-environmental action, especially in unexpected places. Through insights from Darwin, Tulsa, Cleveland, and Cape Town, Jon highlights the role of everyday experiences in mobilizing political change. She also outlines strategies for creating a pro-environmental cultural atmosphere, blending local practices with global ecological concerns.

Emilia Alaverdov, a Political Science professor and expert on migration and cultural heritage, joins the discussion alongside educator Muhammad Waseem Bari. They delve into the critical need for preserving cultural heritage in conflict zones and the challenges posed by Russian invasions. Key topics include the role of digital tools, the impact of universities on cultural recovery, and the potential of agro-tourism. They also highlight how international cooperation can safeguard heritage and foster economic stability in post-conflict settings.

Maya Tudor, a Professor at the Blavatnik School of Government, dives into whether democracies truly deliver on their promises. She shares compelling cross-national data showcasing how democracies achieve better health, education, and lower civil conflict. However, she warns of mixed economic growth outcomes and inflated data in autocratic regimes. Tudor highlights the adaptability of democracies in addressing global challenges like climate change, arguing that while imperfect, they often provide better solutions than authoritarian models.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Marion Orr, a political scientist from Brown University, dives into the life of Charles C. Diggs Jr., Michigan's first Black congressman. The conversation highlights Diggs' strategic moderation in politics, which proved more effective than the militant approaches of his peers. Orr shares riveting stories of Diggs' collaboration with Martin Luther King Jr. and his pivotal role at the Emmett Till trial. He also discusses how Diggs founded the Congressional Black Caucus and his lasting yet overlooked impact on civil rights.

Political scientists Jack B. Greenberg, a scholar from Yale, and John A. Dearborn, from Vanderbilt, dive into the intriguing concept of presidential self-restraint and its implications for Congress. They explore how congressional actions shape executive power, discussing key examples like the FBI director's position. The duo also highlights the impact of polarization on legislative tools and how past presidencies have tested these norms. Their insights reveal why reliance on norms alone may not safeguard democracy, emphasizing the need for a coordinated restoration of balance among branches.

Rachel Myrick, the Douglas & Ellen Lowey Associate Professor of Political Science at Duke University, discusses her book on polarization's impact on international politics. She reveals how extreme partisanship undermines democracies' advantages in foreign affairs, eroding stability and credibility. Myrick shares surprising insights on polarization's effects on institutions and predictability. She also explores mitigation strategies to insulate national security and highlights the relevance of her research amid current geopolitical tensions.