New Books in Political Science

Michael Lazarus, a Lecturer in Political Theory and author of Absolute Ethical Life, explores the intersections of Marx, Aristotle, and Hegel. He argues that Marx's critique of capitalism isn't just economic but fundamentally ethical, reshaping our understanding of freedom and agency. Lazarus highlights the limitations of thinkers like Arendt and MacIntyre, advocating for a broader framework of political action connected to contemporary social issues like climate change. His insights challenge us to rethink ethics as deeply embedded in our historical and social contexts.

Taru Salmenkari, a senior researcher at the University of Helsinki, dives into the complex world of Chinese civil society and NGOs. She discusses how globalization has influenced local activism and highlights the significant role of Confucian values in NGO operations. Salmenkari contrasts examples like Shanghai Pride with grassroots gatherings, showing the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ activism in China. She also challenges Western definitions of politics, illustrating how local community actions are vital political expressions. Plus, she hints at her work on climate policy and its implications for civil society.

Kenneth Bo Nielsen, a social anthropologist, and M. Sudhir Selvaraj, a political scientist, dive into the troubling rise of anti-Christian violence in India. They discuss historical roots linked to colonial attitudes and the evolution of contemporary violence fueled by social media. The guests explore how state dynamics influence strategies, with case studies from Orissa and Karnataka. They also critique anti-conversion laws that disguise discrimination under a secular facade, emphasizing the need for further research into this pressing issue.

Nathan E. Sanders, an astrophysicist and data science expert, joins forces with renowned security technologist Bruce Schneier to unpack how AI is reshaping politics and governance. They discuss the dual nature of AI as both a tool for democracy and a risk to it, emphasizing the need for informed regulation. Sanders reveals how AI can enhance voter engagement and government efficiency while cautioning against its biases. He also highlights the geopolitical implications of AI in the U.S. and China, outlining paths for a decentralized and fair AI future.

Matthew D. Nelsen, an Assistant Professor of Political Science, dives into the intricate world of civic education in his latest book. He reveals how urban classrooms can transform historical narratives about marginalized figures, shaping students' political engagement. Nelsen's research shows that teaching inclusive history significantly increases political participation, especially among diverse racial groups. He advocates for schools as community hubs, emphasizing a discussion-based approach to empower future citizens in a multiracial democracy.

Yong-Shik Lee, a noted professor and author of "Sustainable Peace in Northeast Asia," dives into the complex dynamics of East Asia's political landscape. He explores how nations must embrace collective defense to mitigate U.S.-China rivalry, much as France and Germany did post-war. Lee tackles North Korea's nuclear ambitions linked to its regime security and contrasts Japan’s war legacy with Germany’s reconciliation efforts. He also discusses Mongolia's potential role in fostering reform and emphasizes the necessity of integrating economic, political, and military cooperation for lasting peace.

Aileen Teague, an assistant professor at Texas A&M and author of 'Policing on Drugs,' explores the origins of the U.S.-Mexico drug war. She discusses operational strategies like Nixon's Operation Intercept and how increased U.S. enforcement complicates Mexican sovereignty. Teague reveals how Cold War dynamics shaped drug policies and led to militarization, alongside the negative impacts of U.S. programs like Operation Condor. She emphasizes the need for historical awareness in current U.S.-Mexico cooperation and suggests alternatives to reduce violence and improve outcomes.

José Marichal, a Professor of Political Science at California Lutheran University, delves into the complex relationship between democracy and algorithms in his thought-provoking discussion. He argues that we are trapped in a socio-technical contract, trading autonomy for algorithmic predictability. Marichal warns against the dangers of engagement-driven algorithms, which stifle public discourse and amplify extreme content. He advocates for reshaping our interaction with technology to encourage creativity and serendipity, urging us to embrace our role as 'algorithmic problems' for a healthier democracy.

What does it mean to be a political subject? This is one of the key questions asked by Massimo Modonesi in ​The Antagonistic Principle: Marxism and Political Action (2019)​, published as part of the Historical Materialism book series from Brill and Haymarket books. The book takes on the theories of Marx and Gramsci to develop a philosophical triad of subalternity-antagonism-autonomy as a way of studying political subjectification under oppressive conditions and the potential for resistance. The book then looks at political developments in South and Latin America, trying to understand the underlying dynamics of both where it’s coming from, and what its possibilities are for anticapitalist resistance.Massimo Modonesi is professor and chair of the Political and Social Sciences Faculty at the Autonomous National University in Mexico, and is the author of numerous books on political theory and history in Latin America, his most recent in English being ​Subalternity, Antagonism, Autonomy: Constructing the Political Subject.​ He is a member of the coordinating committee of the International Gramsci Society.Maria Vignau served as a research assistant under Modonesi, and now teaches while working on her PhD at the University of Washington in Seattle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/political-science

Elisabeth R. Anker, an Associate Professor at George Washington University, delves into the complexities of freedom in her book, Ugly Freedoms. She challenges traditional definitions, arguing that many concepts of freedom are steeped in violence and exclusion. Anker connects historical injustices—including colonialism and capitalism—to contemporary struggles for freedom. She also critiques neoliberal individualism, illustrating how small acts of resistance can foster collective liberation. Ultimately, she calls for a reimagined understanding of freedom that emphasizes interdependence and ecological awareness.