New Books in Critical Theory

Shelly Kagan, a prominent philosopher in contemporary ethical discussions, discusses his book 'How to Count Animals, More Or Less' and explores the moral status of animals. He introduces a hierarchical approach to morality, examines different perspectives on animal ethics, explores the concept of speciesism, and delves into the distinctions between humans and animals. The episode also touches on objections to the hierarchical view, rule-based approaches in moral philosophy, and the moral treatment of animals.

Dr. Simon Joyce, an expert on nineteenth-century archives, explores the rethinking of Victorian sexuality and gender identity. The podcast focuses on topics such as the lives of lesbians in the nineteenth century, the advocacy for tolerance and gender identity by Ulrichs, historical instances of transgender identity, cultural anxiety surrounding male effeminacy, a Victorian man's struggle with homosexuality, and the contrasting perspectives on gender and sexuality debates in England and Ireland. This podcast provides a fresh understanding of the Victorian period and its relevance to LGBTQ+ issues today.

The podcast explores the relationship between photography, property, and racial capitalism in the late 19th century. It delves into the concept of the legal unconscious and the optical unconscious in photography. It also discusses the influence of American del Sartism on photography and the connection between trans luminosity and the soul. The podcast reflects on the disconnect between politics, life, and individual rights, and the use of memory and images to reconnect with the past.

Chhaya Kolavalli, author of 'Well-Intentioned Whiteness: Green Urban Development and Black Resistance in Kansas City', discusses how whiteness occupies urban spaces. The podcast explores topics such as the impact of green urbanism on marginalized communities, historical perspectives on local food production, displacement and violence in green spaces, and the concept of white public space and its effects on historically black neighborhoods.

"Practical Radicals: Seven Strategies to Change the World" features winning strategies, history, and theory for activists. The book explores strategies used by successful organizations and movements and offers insights on adapting to new challenges. The podcast covers topics like base building, disruptive movements, collective care in social movements, the lasting impact of the AIDS movement, and the need for strategy hubs in social change movements.

Russ Castronovo, Author of American Insecurity and the Origins of Vulnerability, examines the origins of American ideas regarding surveillance, terrorism, and white supremacy. Castronovo challenges conventional approaches to security, turning to literature, philosophy, and political theory to reveal how security both enhances and limits freedom. He explores the racial dynamics shaping the American obsession with security, while also discussing the contradictions and impact of security on democracy. The podcast also delves into the influence of the black population on American power, the role of population counting, and the overwhelming impact of information influx on security and vulnerability.

Jürgen Zimmerer, editor of a provocative volume on German memory, discusses the diverse landscape of German memory, the shift in Germany's historical consciousness after unification, the need for a new German historical consciousness that includes migrant experiences, the concept of Stadts-Rison and its impact on public discourse, and the tensions surrounding historical consciousness and anti-Semitism in Germany.

Vid Simoniti, author of 'Artists Remake the World: A Contemporary Art Manifesto,' discusses the political ambitions and potential of contemporary art. The podcast covers topics such as evidence-driven art, socially engaged art, and ecological art as solutions to global issues. Simoniti explores the intersection of art and politics, the changing perception of beauty, and the influence of institutions on art.

Astra Taylor, author and activist, discusses her book 'The Age of Insecurity' and explores the challenges of navigating a complex and uncertain world. They delve into topics such as democracy, inequality, education, climate crisis, legal systems, and solidarity as a political ideal.

Samuel Clowes Huneke, historian, discusses his book 'A Queer Theory of the State' and explores the intersection of queer theory and politics, challenging the negative view of the state in queer theory. He delves into the tension between normativity and queer theory, the role of pragmatism in queer politics, and the importance of joy and reimagining democracy. He also shares insights from his research on queer women in Nazi Germany.