New Books in Sociology

How did the Algerian war of independence shape contemporary sociology? In Bourdieu and Sayad Against Empire: Forging Sociology in Anticolonial Struggle (Polity Press, 2023), Amin Perez, an Assistant Professor of Sociology at University of Quebec in Montreal, explores the sociological practice and friendship of Pierre Bourdieu and Abdelmalek Sayad. Using a range of archival and contemporary methods, the book shows the impact of anticolonialism on these key figures in sociology and demonstrates the ongoing importance of their work today. Theoretically and historically rich, as well as being accessible, the book is essential reading across the social sciences and humanities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/sociology

In 1966 Benedict Anderson published 'The Languages of Indonesian Politics', a seminal paper exploring the development of Indonesian as a new language for talking about national politics. In that paper Anderson underlined the contrast between the formal/official style of Indonesian news reports and the colloquial, playful speech style of ordinary Jakartans as depicted through comics. Nearly six decades on, how do we understand the 'languages' of Indonesian politics? How are figures of politics constituted through language? Associate Professor in Indonesian Studies at The University of Sydney, Dwi Noverini Djenar, expands on these issues. She has worked on the stylistics of adolescent literature, focusing on the production and circulation of styles and their relationship to sociolinguistic change. Her current research focuses on language and relations among social actors in public spheres, particularly in broadcast settings. Novi is co-author of Style and Intersubjectivity in Youth Interaction (2018) and co-editor of Signs of Deference, Signs of Demeanour: Interlocutor Reference and Self-Other Relations across Southeast Asian Communities (NUS Press, 2023). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/sociology

Ethel Tungohan, Canada Research Chair in Migration Policy, shares insights on care activism among migrant domestic workers. She challenges stereotypes by showcasing the unique ways these workers care for themselves and their communities. The conversation explores the significance of 'dissident friendships' in activism, the emotional side of caregiving, and the historical struggles for rights in Canada. Tungohan emphasizes the need for integrating academia with grassroots activism, fostering hope and solidarity even during systemic challenges.

Mara Kardas-Nelson, an independent journalist focused on international development and health policy, delves into the world of microfinance with her latest book. She sheds light on the darker realities faced by women borrowers in Sierra Leone, revealing how high-interest loans have ensnared many in cycles of debt. Kardas-Nelson critiques the initial idealism of microfinance, exploring its colonial legacies and the often-overlooked local economic contexts. Through powerful narratives and sharp analysis, she challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding this controversial practice.

Join Joanne Rosenthal, a freelance curator and expert in Jewish art, as she explores sexuality within Judaism in her new book and related exhibition. Delve into the diverse experiences of ultra-Orthodox Jews and the evolving attitudes toward intimacy. Discover the intersection of radical feminism and Jewish identity through art, and how contemporary female artists bring ancient texts to life. Rosenthal also discusses the complexities of defining 'kosher sex' and integrating LGBTQ themes in Jewish culture, making for an eye-opening conversation.

Douglas J. Engelman, a sociology lecturer at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, shares his heartfelt journey in "A Boy Broken." He candidly discusses the moment his son revealed his mental illness and the subsequent challenges they faced together. Engelman emphasizes the stigma surrounding mental health and the crucial role of community support in advocacy. The podcast also reflects on healing, familial bonds, and the transformative power of sharing personal narratives, ultimately highlighting resilience in the face of profound loss.

Sanaullah Khan, author of "Carceral Recovery," dives into the gritty intersections of prisons and substance use in Baltimore. He discusses how housing, medicalization, and incarceration influence addiction and recovery. Khan unpacks the relationships between drug markets and treatment environments, exposing the cycle of violence and vulnerability faced by marginalized communities. He highlights personal narratives that reveal the societal biases affecting recovery and emphasizes the need to separate punishment from healing, challenging conventional views on addiction.

Anne M. Whitesell, an assistant professor of political science at Miami University, dives into the complexity of welfare policies in her new book. She discusses who is deemed deserving of public assistance and how racial and gender stereotypes shape public perception. Whitesell analyzes the varied welfare rules across states, focusing on the systemic inadequacies that fail to serve low-income Americans effectively. She highlights the impact of harmful stereotypes and calls for a re-evaluation of a system that often prioritizes special interests over those in need.

Dr. Kristina Kolbe, a sociologist with expertise in cultural inequalities, discusses her book on diversity in classical music. She examines the challenges faced by the industry in addressing race and class disparities. Kolbe highlights the historical privileges influencing contemporary practices and the need for meaningful change. She also explores how the COVID-19 pandemic intensified existing inequalities for freelance musicians, advocating for systemic reforms and grassroots initiatives to foster genuine inclusivity in music.

Allison Pugh, a Professor of Sociology at Johns Hopkins University and the 2024-25 Vice President of the American Sociological Association, discusses the essence of human connection in her research. She introduces the concept of 'connective labor' and the risks posed by data-driven workplace cultures. Pugh shares insights from various professionals about the emotional labor inherent in their roles. The conversation highlights the need for empathy and genuine interaction in fields like healthcare, urging us to value humane work in an increasingly automated society.