New Books in Political Science

Nicholas Buccola, a political theorist and professor at Claremont McKenna College, delves into the dramatic clash between Barry Goldwater and Martin Luther King Jr. over the meaning of freedom. He explores how Goldwater's radical individualism conflicted with King's vision of collective empowerment for civil rights. Buccola highlights their divergent paths, pivotal moments like the Civil Rights Act, and the lasting impacts of their beliefs on American politics. The conversation paints a vivid picture of their rivalry and its relevance to today's political landscape.

Carl Benedikt Frey, Dieter Schwarz Associate Professor of AI and Work at the Oxford Internet Institute, dives into the complexities of technological progress in his latest book. He reveals why historical powers like Song China and Victorian Britain faltered despite initial strength. Frey discusses the duality of decentralization and bureaucracy in fostering innovation and warns of potential stagnation in the U.S. and China. He argues that AI's future depends on competition and exploration, not just scale, offering a thought-provoking view on the fate of nations.

Today I’m speaking with Hélène Landemore, Professor of Political Science at Yale University, about Democracy and Bullshit, with a special focus on her 2020 book, Open Democracy: Reinventing Popular Rule for the Twenty-First Century (Princeton University Press, 2020). Bullshit is a feature of both democracies and dictatorships alike, but it takes different forms. In democracies, while citizens enjoy the freedom of speech and the right to vote, a range of forces often conspire to limit their real power in favor of competing elites. The political and economic elite’s toolkit includes the art of bullshit—the persuasive use of language without regard for truth. Whether meritocratic or populist, elites alike have mastered this form of manipulation, amplified by modern tools of dissemination and authority. To help us understand the challenges that bullshit poses to democratic citizens, I’m pleased to welcome Hélène Landemore. Hélène Landemore is a professor of political science at Yale University. Caleb Zakarin is editor of the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/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.