New Books in Political Science

Eric Hoffer, a stevedore turned philosopher, explores the psychology behind mass movements in his book. Topics include the origins of fanaticism, roles of desires and leadership, contrasting rational vs. messianic leaders, and analyzing true believers in movements.

Sumita Pahwa, an expert on the Muslim Brotherhood, discusses how the organization maintained unity after coming to power in Egypt. She explores the blending of Islamic ideals into political discourse, navigating internal debates on preaching and social reform. Pahwa highlights the movement's shift towards political engagement, emphasizing the integration of religious education with activism to advance their cause.

Historian Chris Blakely discusses how enslaved people in the British Atlantic World were dehumanized by likening them to animals, exploring resistance and complex human-animal networks. They delve into slaveholders' tactics of dehumanization, visual depictions of enslaved individuals, and the intellectual critique of mistreatment. The interconnectedness between enslaved people and animals is highlighted, showcasing the exploitation faced and strategic resistance enacted within the system.

Jonathan W. Hackett, author of 'Theory of Irregular War,' discusses dysfunctional governments, organized violence, and the lack of understanding in irregular wars. Topics include the influence of ideology, diverse actors in conflicts, intrinsic motivations, psychological aspects, contrasting approaches, and the relevance of the Westphalian system in modern warfare.

Author Annika Schmeding discusses her book 'Sufi Civilities: Religious Authority and Political Change in Afghanistan.' Topics include Sufism's role in Afghan civil society, Sufi groups' relationships with the state, the influence of Sufi poetry in Afghanistan, women's leadership in the Khadirir Sufi order, and dream-based succession in Afghan Sufi communities.

Marc Edelman, an expert on transnational agrarian movements, discusses the rise of peasant movements shaping global agriculture. Topics include protests, peasants' rights debates, alliances with various groups, and challenges like land grabbing and climate change. The interview also explores the impact of transnational farmer organizing, global trade dynamics, and collaboration between academics and activists in understanding and supporting rural movements.

Author Rina Verma Williams discusses women's changing participation in Hindu nationalist politics in India over time, highlighting the evolution from marginalization to mobilization and incorporation by parties like BJP. The podcast explores the impact of women's inclusion on electoral success and the complexities of empowerment within religious nationalism.

Dr. Matthieu Grandpierron discusses how world leaders react to status decline by going to war guided by a nostalgic, virile understanding of power. He tests this theory against realism and diversionary theory, examining case studies like the Indochina War and US invasion of Grenada. The podcast delves into the challenges of accessing Reagan administration documents and explores nostalgic virility's impact on international relations, highlighting its relevance in today's global order.

Diane Winston, author of 'Righting the American Dream', discusses Reagan's shift to a spiritual agenda, how the media embraced his message, and the impact of evangelical ideas on policy. Winston reveals how Reagan's religious rhetoric was mainstreamed by journalists, leading to a social revolution that continues today.

Yuliya Zabyelina delves into the intricacies of impunity among political elites involved in transnational crimes. The discussion covers the challenges of investigating and trying these officials, legal mechanisms for accountability, and notable case studies. It also explores the complexities of international immunities, drug trafficking cases, and future prospects for holding elite figures responsible.