In this episode, we host a special guest: Michèle Lamont (professor of Sociology at Harvard). We discuss her new book Seeing Others: How Recognition Works--And How It Can Heal a Divided World, which centers on the role of recognition and dignity in countering inequality after decades of neoliberalism. Based on interviews with cultural change agents in the American cultural industries and Gen Z college students, we unpack how new narratives of hope may lead to a more equal and inclusive future. We also discuss the role of sociology in taking part in a the conversation on inequality, dignity and recognition, nuancing the work of psychologists and economists.

Guest: Michèle Lamont (professor of Sociology and of African and African American Studies at Harvard University)

Host: Giselinde Kuipers (professor of Sociology at KU Leuven university)

Editing: Luuc Brans (PhD student at KU Leuven University)

Book links

EU + UK: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/319027/seeing-others-by-lamont-michele/9780241454633

USA: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Seeing-Others/Michele-Lamont/9781982153786