New Books in Political Science

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.

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.

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, 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.

Raymond J. McKoski, a retired Illinois circuit judge and adjunct professor, shares insights from his new book on David Davis, one of Abraham Lincoln's key allies. They discuss the crucial role Davis played in Lincoln's 1860 presidential nomination and his close personal relationship with the future president. McKoski highlights Davis's remarkable impartiality as a judge, his bipartisan reputation, and the strategic decisions that influenced important Civil War-era rulings. Their deep friendship and shared commitment to integrity shaped both their careers in extraordinary ways.

Luis L. Schenoni, an associate professor at University College London and expert on Latin American political history, dives into how wars shaped state formation in 19th-century Latin America. He discusses the coercion-extraction cycle, illustrating how taxation and conscription strengthened bureaucratic capacity. Schenoni critiques the anti-Bellicist tradition and presents a nuanced view of how individual battles influenced legitimacy and tax morale. He draws compelling comparisons between Argentina's rise and Paraguay's collapse, revealing the profound long-term impacts of warfare on state development.

Sasha Davis, a Professor of environmental studies and author, dives deep into activism with her book discussing how to effect social change when traditional methods fall short. She explores the limitations of current institutions and the power of grassroots movements. Notably, she shares strategies from Indigenous resistance against environmental degradation and military occupations. Davis emphasizes the importance of direct governance, offering practical steps for local organizing and fostering a sense of community empowerment. This insightful conversation is a rallying cry for activism.