New Books in Political Science

Gianna Englert, an associate professor at the University of Florida and author of "Democracy Tamed", delves into the complex relationship between liberalism and democracy in 19th-century France. She discusses the concept of 'political capacity' and its role in limiting suffrage to those deemed capable, a notion that spurred intellectual debates then and now. Englert highlights the works of Benjamin Constant and Alexis de Tocqueville, revealing their nuanced views on civic responsibility and education, while questioning democracy's evolution in the face of modern challenges.

Gustav Meibauer, an assistant professor of international relations and author of a new book on no-fly zones, dives into the persistence of this controversial U.S. foreign policy tool. He explores why these zones are often favored despite their spotty results and analyzes key historical cases in Iraq, Bosnia, and Libya. Meibauer reveals how domestic politics and election considerations shape decisions about foreign interventions, with no-fly zones used more as political signals than effective solutions. He also discusses future implications amid global tensions.

Naomi R. Williams, Associate Professor of Labor Studies at Rutgers University, explores worker solidarity from Racine, Wisconsin. She shares how her upbringing fueled her passion for labor history and highlights the impact of the 1976 hospital strike, which united diverse workers. Williams discusses the concept of total person unionism, emphasizing the interconnectedness of community needs and labor rights. She also stresses lessons for modern organizing, urging a holistic approach that connects workplace struggles with broader social issues and building solidarity beyond traditional boundaries.

Kevin M. Schultz, Professor and chair of history at the University of Illinois Chicago, dives into the turbulent legacy of American white liberals. He reveals how critiques from conservatives, libertarians, and even fellow liberals have evolved over the decades. Schultz explores the changing definition of 'liberalism' and its complex ties to capitalism. He argues for a shift towards a multiparty political system and presents cautious optimism for center-left coalitions to reclaim progressive ideals. This lively discourse is a must-listen for anyone curious about America’s political landscape.

Tyler Jost, an assistant professor of political science at Brown University, dives into fascinating insights from his upcoming book, exploring why states often miscalculate in wars they are destined to lose. He explains how different bureaucratic structures influence leaders' access to critical information, leading to potential disasters. Jost uncovers surprising findings about the role of civilian bureaucracies and discusses the political compromises that drive leaders to neglect better institutional designs. His research offers valuable lessons for policymakers navigating complex international conflicts.

In this discussion, David H. Shinn, a former U.S. diplomat and expert on China-Africa relations, teams up with Joshua Eisenman, a Notre Dame politics professor specializing in China studies. They explore China's growing strategic engagement with Africa since 2012, emphasizing military cooperation, educational ties, and the significance of the Global South. The duo delves into the nuances of bilateral relations, Chinese soft power through media, and the implications for U.S.-Africa relations as they analyze the evolving geopolitical landscape.

In this discussion, Xiaobo Lü, an Associate Professor at UC Berkeley and author of "Domination and Mobilization", dives into the dynamics of political parties in China. He contrasts the Chinese Communist Party's mass-centric mobilization strategies with the elite-focused approach of the Nationalist Party. Lü examines key historical shifts, the impact of the wartime period, and how leadership styles influenced party fortunes. His insights shed light on how these legacies continue to shape China's political landscape today.

Francis Fukuyama, a renowned political scientist and Senior Fellow at Stanford, delves into the critical importance of democratic delivery. He discusses how perceived failures in meeting citizen needs fuel populism. Fukuyama examines key delivery areas like infrastructure and job growth that sustain public support. He warns against authoritarian narratives that misinterpret success and stresses the need for institutional reforms to enhance effectiveness. The conversation highlights the risks of complacency in democracies and the necessity for realistic expectations concerning delivery.

Emma Ashford, a foreign policy scholar and author of First Among Equals, presents a fresh perspective on U.S. grand strategy in today's multipolar world. She critiques the failures of past U.S. approaches, advocating for a realist internationalism that prioritizes pragmatic interests. Ashford explores how shifting political dynamics influence foreign policy decisions and argues for a phased U.S. withdrawal from Europe to focus resources on the Indo-Pacific, while still emphasizing strong relations with key allies like Europe and Latin America.

Madison Schramm, an Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of Toronto, delves into the intriguing dynamics of why democracies often engage militarily with personalist dictators. She argues that cognitive biases and social narratives lead democratic leaders to perceive these dictators as significant threats, driving them towards aggressive actions. Schramm also explores the historical evolution of anti-dictator identity and how media personalization of leaders influences perceptions of threat. This insightful discussion sheds light on the complexities of international relations.