New Books in Psychology

Derek Hook, an associate professor at Duquesne University and a Lacanian scholar, delves into the intersection of language and the unconscious. He creatively uses Bill Clinton's infamous denial to illustrate Lacan's theories. The conversation spans Nixon’s apology post-Watergate, exploring themes of responsibility and identity within political contexts. Hook emphasizes the significance of the 'big other' in shaping communication and the challenges in bridging academic and clinical worlds, offering insights into psychoanalysis and individual repression.

Conspiracy theories spread more widely and faster than ever before. Fear and uncertainty prompt people to believe false narratives of danger and hidden plots, but are not sufficient without considering the role and ideological bias of the media. Creating Conspiracy Beliefs: How Our Thoughts Are Shaped (Cambridge UP, 2021) focuses on making sense of how and why some people respond to their fear of a threat by creating or believing conspiracy stories. It integrates insights from psychology, political science, communication, and information sciences to provide a complete overview and theory of how conspiracy beliefs manifest. Through this multi-disciplinary perspective, rigorous research develops and tests a practical, simple way to frame and understand conspiracy theories. The book supplies unprecedented amounts of new data from six empirical studies and unpicks the complexity of the process that leads to the empowerment of conspiracy beliefs.Roberto Mazza is currently a visiting scholar at the Buffett Institute for Global Affairs at Northwestern University. He is the host of the Jerusalem Unplugged Podcast and to discuss and propose a book for interview can be reached at robbymazza@gmail.com. Twitter and IG: @robbyref Website: www.robertomazza.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/psychology

In this conversation, Meryl Alper, an expert in communication studies and educational research, shares insights from her new book on the experiences of autistic youth in the digital era. They discuss the impact of technology on social interactions, emphasizing both challenges and opportunities. Alper highlights the importance of inclusive media representation and listening to the voices from disability studies. She also offers empirical insights on communication preferences among autistic children and advocates for a deeper understanding of their emotional expressions.

Dr. Lauren Tober, a clinical psychologist and veteran yoga teacher, discusses her new book on integrating mental health into yoga practice. She emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive atmosphere for students experiencing mental health challenges. The conversation explores the therapeutic benefits of yoga and the urgent need for mental health training among teachers. Ethical considerations around touch in therapeutic yoga are also covered, alongside the profound connection between calming the mind and accessing inner wisdom.

Francisco Aboitiz, a prominent professor and director at the Interdisciplinary Center for Neuroscience, delves into the intricate history of life and consciousness. He discusses how the first cells emerged and traces the evolution of complex organisms. Fascinating insights on the hippocampus highlight its role in memory, while the evolution of hearing and language reveals how communication adapted over time. Aboitiz also uncovers the link between cognitive abilities and environmental changes, and examines the implications of technology on our communication and societal structures.

Jennifer Chudy, a political science professor at Wellesley College, dives into her new book exploring white racial sympathy toward Black suffering. She discusses how this emotional response shapes opinions on crucial issues like social welfare and criminal justice. Chudy illuminates the complexities of racial sympathy, questioning its impact on political action and broader liberal ideologies. Her insights reveal the limitations of sympathy in driving tangible change and highlight the intricate relationship between race and political engagement.

Beth Blum, Assistant Professor of English at Harvard and author of "The Self-Help Compulsion," dives into the fascinating evolution of self-help literature. She traces its journey from Victorian ideals and Dale Carnegie's charm to today's neo-stoics advocating empowerment. The conversation uncovers the tension between personal agency and societal expectations. Blum also highlights how modern stoicism resonates particularly with women navigating emotional labor, and contrasts it with Carnegie’s principles, presenting a fresh perspective on self-improvement.

The podcast delves into James Baldwin's profound insights on racism, emphasizing the need for truth over simplistic solutions. It explores individual and societal denial, particularly highlighting the struggles of characters like Leo Proudhammer. Baldwin's call for love and freedom as pathways to transformation challenges both Black and white Americans to confront uncomfortable realities. The discussion connects Baldwin's legacy to modern racial issues and the vital role of literature in addressing systemic racism and fostering open communication.

Daniel J. Levitin, a cognitive psychologist and bestselling author, shares transformative insights on aging. He debunks the myth that memory always declines with age, emphasizing the importance of 'health span.' Levitin redefines aging as a unique developmental stage, ripe with opportunities for cognitive enhancement. He discusses how personality traits can change and advocates for maintaining a vibrant life through new experiences. His approach encourages listeners to embrace joy and social connectivity as keys to thriving in later years.

Sandra Buechler, a recently retired psychoanalyst and author, discusses her book on the role of values in psychoanalysis. She delves into patients' common struggles, including loss, guilt, and the quest for meaning, illustrating how an analyst's values shape treatment. Buechler intertwines poetry with psychoanalysis to enrich understanding and shares insights from her experiences with her former supervisee, Christopher Bandini. She reflects on the complexities of retirement, emotional health, and the interplay of love and hate in personal growth.