Humanities Matter by Brill

In this first half of a special double episode on Sustainability Matters, we unpack how generative AI is challenging traditional ideas of writing, learning, and originality. Are large language models truly that revolutionary, or just glorified predictive text tools? How are universities responding to this shift? And—perhaps most importantly—where does morality come into the equation?All this and more with Dr. Naomi S. Baron, author of the chapter, AI and Human Writing: Collaboration or Appropriation? which is part of The De Gruyter Handbook of Automated Futures published by De Gruyter Brill.Host: Ramzi NasirGuest: Dr. Naomi S. Baron

In this episode of Sustainability Matters, we get into the numbers behind scholarly publishing. We unpack why publishing consumption patterns vary so widely across countries, how data can inform efforts around diversity, equity, and inclusion, and how it supports progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Finally, we explore the evolving role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of data and sustainability in publishing.All this and more with Dr. Michiel Kolman and Rachel Martin, authors of the article “What Can Data Tell Us about Publishing? How data can potentially drive progress in sustainability” published in the Brill journal Logos.Host: Ramzi NasirGuests: Dr. Michiel Kolman and Rachel Martin

In this episode of Sustainability Matters, we explore what responsible research and innovation (RRI) means. How can science move beyond disciplinary siloes to embrace transdisciplinarity? What does it mean to conduct research that is truly socially responsible?  And is the commitment to sustainable research declining?All this and more with Dr. Siri Granum Carson and Dr. Matthias Kaiser, authors of the concluding chapter “A sea change in science and technology ecologies? Prospects of socially responsible research and innovation towards 2030” from the book The Fragility of Responsibility, published by De Gruyter Brill.Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com.Host: Ramzi NasirGuests: Dr. Siri Granum Carson and Dr. Matthias Kaiser 

On the first episode of Sustainability Matters (formerly Humanities Matter), we explore the complexities of diversity and inclusion in higher education. Do the frameworks in US universities today advance equity, or merely mask deeper systemic issues? How can academia move beyond optics to genuine transformation? And what does diversity and justice in higher education truly look like? All this and more with Dr. Nimisha Barton, author of “Diversity Practitioners and Institutional Whiteness”, a chapter in her book A Just Future, published by Cornell University Press—a partner of De Gruyter Brill.Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com.Host: Ramzi Nasir Guest: Dr. Nimisha Barton

This month on Humanities Matter, we discuss the variation in literacy rates among India's social strata, the importance of considering a gendered perspective in adult education policies within the country, and how such policies can empower marginalized communities and bring about social change.All this and more with Dr. Preeti Dagar, author of “Subaltern Perspectives in Adult Education”, a chapter in the book Adult Education in India, Volume 35 in the series International Issues in Adult Education, published last year by Brill.Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Ramzi NasirGuest: Dr. Preeti Dagar

In this episode of Humanities Matter, we take a closer look at the documented sightings of the so-called Gloucester Sea Serpent over the years. Are there truly monsters lurking in the deep? Or do these stories reveal a stark truth about marine sustainability and the lasting impact of human fishing practices on our oceans?All this and more with Dr. Robert France, author of Disentangled: Ethnozoology and Environmental Explanation of the Gloucester Sea Serpent, published by Brill. Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Ramzi NasirGuest: Dr. Robert L. France

In the second half of this episode on Humanities Matter, we examine when countries might deploy autonomous weapons systems, whether these weapons could better follow international human rights law than humans if properly programmed, the feasibility of a global ban, and the challenges in regulating or limiting their production.All this and more with Dr. Barry de Vries, author of Individual Criminal Responsibility for Autonomous Weapons Systems in International Criminal Law, which is volume 65 in “International Human Law Series” published by De Gruyter Brill.  Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Ramzi NasirGuest: Dr. Barry de Vries

In this special extended episode of Humanities Matter, we take a closer look at Autonomous Weapons Systems and the legal frameworks surrounding their use. What exactly defines an autonomous weapon? Can an individual be held legally responsible for the consequences of deploying such a weapon? And can international law keep pace with the rapid rise of AI-driven weaponry?We answer all these questions and more in the first half of this episode with Dr. Barry de Vries, author of Individual Criminal Responsibility for Autonomous Weapons Systems in International Criminal Law, which is volume 65 in “International Human Law Series” published by De Gruyter Brill.  Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Ramzi NasirGuest: Dr. Barry de Vries

In this episode of Humanities Matter, we dive into human rights and humanitarian law development in Asia, exploring current regional challenges, persisting colonial legacies, external geopolitical pressures, and the push for greater accountability against selective enforcement.All this and more with Dr. Matthias Vanhullebusch, co-editor of volumes 7, 8, and 9 of “The Asian Yearbook of Human Rights and Humanitarian Law”, published by Brill.Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Ramzi NasirGuest: Dr. Matthias Vanhullebusch

This month on Humanities Matter, we take a closer look at a groundbreaking environmental human rights law being developed in Latin America and the Caribbean. What is it? How is it connected to the Escazú Agreement and the American Convention on Human Rights? And how could these developments shape the global conversation on indigenous rights, property laws, sustainable development, and environmental justice? All this and more with Dr. Mario Aguilera, author of the new book Environmental Human Rights: New Thinking from Latin America and the Caribbean—which is part of the series “Theory and Practice of Public International Law”, published by Brill. Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Ramzi NasirGuest: Dr. Mario Aguilera

In this episode of Humanities Matter, we look at the role of regenerative agrourbanism in creating sustainable urban living spaces. How can urban agriculture boost local economies and enhance community well-being? Is it possible to strike a balance between urban aesthetics and food supply? And can restoration design truly heal damaged landscapes and rejuvenate cities?We answer these questions and more with Dr. Robert L. France, author of Regenerative agrourbanism: Experiencing edible placemaking transforming neglected or damaged landscapes, lives, and livelihoods, published by Brill.Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Ramzi NasirGuest: Dr. Robert L. France

In this episode of Humanities Matter, we explore various aspects of adult education, including the influence of Paulo Freire's critical pedagogy, impact of environmental education on social change, and challenges and opportunities when it comes to decolonizing education. We also discuss inclusivity in educational practices, and explore what adult education for a sustainable future looks like.All this and more with Dr. Bonnie Slade, Dr. Peter Mayo, and Dr. Thi Bogossian, editors of the new book Adult Education and Difference, which is volume 36 in the series “International Issues in Adult Education” published by Brill.Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Ramzi NasirGuests: Dr. Bonnie Slade, Dr. Peter Mayo, and Dr. Thi Bogossian

It's pride month!In this episode, we discuss the importance of an intersectional approach to research, the role of adult educators in fostering inclusive learning environments, the power of pop culture in addressing gender and sexuality issues, the homogenisation of the heterogenous trans community, and the rise of rainbow capitalism. We also tackle an important question: When does diversity stop being enough?We speak with Dr. Bonnie Slade, volume editor, and Dr. Ksenija Joksimović and Lidiane Castro, chapter authors of the ‘Gender and Sexuality' section, of the new book Adult Education and Difference—which is volume 36 in the series International Issues in Adult Education published by Brill.  Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Ramzi NasirGuests: Dr. Bonnie Slade, Dr. Ksenija Joksimović, and Lidiane Castro

In this episode of Humanities Matter, we explore how partnerships among schools, communities, and higher education institutions can help disrupt inequitable social processes. We highlight the unique perspectives that Black educators bring to academic settings, talk about the power of a non-neutral stance in social justice, and understand the crucial role of rest in equity-oriented work. Listen to all this and more from Dr. Leanne M. Evans, Dr. Kelly R. Allen, and Dr. Crystasany R. Turner—volume editors of Advancing Critical Pedagogy and Praxis across Educational Settings, the 4th volume in the series Urban Education, Cultures and Communities published by Brill.Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Ramzi NasirGuests: Dr. Leanne M. Evans, Dr. Kelly R. Allen, and Dr. Crystasany R. Turner

As global crises have time and time again demonstrated, NGOs play an invaluable role in the protection and promotion of human rights. But what exactly does this role entail? How do NGOs fulfil their responsibilities while adapting to technological, commercial, and legal landscape shifts? And finally, who or what really constitutes a protector?We answer these questions and more with Dr. Bertrand Ramcharan, Volume Editor of The Protection Roles of Human Rights NGOs, which is part of Brill's “International Studies in Human Rights” series; Adrien-Claude Zoller, in whose honour the book was written; and Ms. Inès French, who was instrumental in the compilation of this book. If you like this podcast, have thoughts on the topic, or want us to address a specific theme in the future, write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Ramzi NasirGuests: Adrien-Claude Zoller, Dr. Bertrand Ramcharan, and Ms. Inès French

In another special episode on Open Access, Brill's Head of Open Research Stephanie Veldman speaks with Dr. Anthony Watkinson, author of "Open Access: A publisher's view" by Brill. Having worked in publishing for nearly five decades, Dr. Watkinson has been seen the Open Access movement unfold since its infancy. How has the movement developed since he wrote his article in 2006? What more can publishers do? How do publishers in the sciences and the humanities compare when it comes to enabling Open Access?Listen to find out. Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Stephanie VeldmanGuests: Dr. Anthony Watkinson

It's open access week. So, this episode, we break down the concept of open access to research. Is it a basic human right? What's its role in shaping global development? And how are technologies—both new and old—influencing a movement for it.We speak with Professor John Willinsky, author of “Development and Open Access,” a chapter in Brill's Critical Perspectives on International Education, and Professor Michael A. Peters, author of “Degrees of Freedom: Open Source, Open Access and Free Science,” a chapter in Knowledge Economy, Development and the Future of Higher Education published by Brill. Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Ramzi NasirGuests: John Willinsky and Michael A. Peters

This month on Humanities Matter, we talk about Music! We wonder why apocalyptic soundtracks have captivated people since Medieval times, we re-discover the beauty and cultural significance of court music, and we explore the ways in which music brings stories to life in Western radio drama.All this featuring the co-editors of Brill's Music in the Apocalyptic Mode and Word, Sound and Music in Radio Drama, and author of Mutʿat al-asmāʿ fīʿilm al-samāʿ, The Ears' Pleasure and the Science of Listening to Music by Aḥmad b. Yūsuf al-Tīfāshī al-Qafṣī. Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Ramzi NasirGuests: Colin McAllister, George Dimitri Sawa, Jarmila Mildorf

This month on Humanities Matter, we talk about the need for space laws to include laws governing cybersecurity, data privacy, and war; role of capitalism in the West's Covid-19 fatalities; and the precarity of certain types of labour in the Global South.All this and more with the Volume Editors of Brill's Space Law in a Networked World and Global Rupture: Neoliberal Capitalism and the Rise of Informal Labour in the Global South, along with the author of F/Ailing Capitalism and the Challenge of Covid-19—which is part of our long-standing series on Studies in Critical Social Sciences.Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Ramzi NasirGuests: Mahulena Hofmann, P.J. Blount, Noel Chellan, and Anita Hammer

This month, we talk about the ancient world going digital, pedagogy through virtual reality, how open access is changing scholarly publishing, and whether digital tools could make non-Western scholarship more mainstream. Also, is AI the greatest disruption yet to the humanities?All this and more with editors of Brill's Journal of Digital Islamicate Research, The Ancient World Goes Digital and Ancient Egypt, New Technology. Liked this podcast? Have thoughts on the topic? Want us to address a specific theme in the future? Write to us at podcast@brill.com. Host: Ramzi NasirGuests: Eid Ahmed Mohamed, Mai Zaki, Vanessa Bigot Juloux, Alessandro Di Ludovico, Rita Lucarelli, Joshua A. Roberson, and Steve Vinson

Global Health, Human Rights and Social Justice—Brill's upcoming book series—provides multi-disciplinary perspectives on legal strategies across different fields and movements. The series addresses the gaps in writing about specific domains of law and hopes to foster transformative thinking in addressing global challenges of socio-economic inequality, health governance, restricted access to medicines, the climate crisis, and more. It aims to maintain a unified focus on the effectiveness of international law and global institutions, with respect to population health and social justice. It also focuses on normative development in the post-pandemic world.In this new episode of Humanities Matter by Brill, Series Editor Alicia Ely Yamin discusses key topics addressed in the book series, focusing on advances and backlash relating to reproductive justice and human rights, ethical implications of biotechnological innovations, and resurgent calls for a ‘right to development.' Guest: Alicia Ely YaminHost: Leigh Giangreco

Wie wurde die bescheidene Tomate zum Symbol der kulinarischen Globalisierung? Die komplexen Interessen und Machtstrukturen, die das Welternährungssystem prägen, sind ein deutlicher Hinweis auf den politischen Charakter von Lebensmitteln. Anhand zahlreicher Fallbeispiele aus Europa, Asien und Afrika stellen die Redakteure Cornelia Reiher und Sarah Ruth Sippel in ihrem Buch "Umkämpftes Essen" fest, dass privatwirtschaftlich finanzierte Unternehmen das globale Ernährungssystem maßgeblich beeinflussen. In dieser Folge der Sonderreihe „Mahlzeit“ des Humanities Matter Podcasts von Brill sprechen die Redakteure über die komplexen Machtverhältnisse in der globalen Lebensmittelindustrie und die Interessen der Hauptakteure. Sie betonen die Bedeutung einer öffentlichen und demokratischen Debatte über die Bedingungen von Produktion, Handel und den Konsum von Lebensmitteln.---------------------How did the humble tomato become a symbol of culinary globalization? The complex interests and power structures that shape the world food system are clear indications of the political nature of food. Using a number of case studies from Europe, Asia, and Africa, in their book Umkämpftes Essen, editors Cornelia Reiher and Sarah Ruth Sippel determine that privately financed companies are the major influencers of the global food system. In this episode of the special series, Mahlzeit, of the Humanities Matter podcast brought to you by Brill, the editors discuss the complex power relations of the global food industry and the vested interests of the key players. They stress the importance of public and democratic debate around the conditions behind the production, trade, and consumption of food.Guest: Cornelia Reiher and Sarah Ruth Sippel Host: Ursula Stalmann

Der Wert der globalen Fleischindustrie beträgt aktuell ungefähr eine Billiarde Dollar. Fleisch ist überall leicht erhältlich und diese permanente Verfügbarkeit als Konsumartikel ist ein einzigartiges Merkmal des modernen Zeitalters. In seinem Buch: Fleisch: Die Geschichte einer Industrialisierung beschreibt Prof. Dr. Christian Kassung kulturelle Techniken industrieller Schweinefleisch-Produktion, von der Zucht, Haltung und Schlachtung bis zum Vertrieb und zur Zubereitung des Fleisches. In dieser Folge von „Mahlzeit“ des Humanities Matter Podcasts von Brill, geht er auf die Ursprünge des Fleischessens im Berlin des 19. Jahrhunderts ein und zeigt die Zusammenhänge zwischen Industrialisierung und Schweinefleischkonsum. Außerdem spricht er darüber, wie kulinarische Systeme und Esskultur durch den Fleischkonsum geprägt wurden. ------------The meat industry stands at a value of over one trillion dollars globally. Meat is easily available everywhere, and its availability as a consumer good is a unique feature of the modern age. In his book Fleisch: Die Geschichte einer Industrialisierung, Prof. Dr. Christian Kassung describes the cultural techniques of industrial pork production from breeding, husbandry, and slaughtering pigs to the meat's distribution and preparation. In this episode of “Mahlzeit” by the Humanities Matter podcast from Brill, he discusses the origins of meat-eating from 19th century Berlin and unpacks the connections between industrialization and the consumption of pork. He also talks about how culinary systems and food culture have been shaped by meat consumption.Guest: Prof. Dr. Christian KassungHost: Ursula Stalmann

Food science is a vast field that encompasses subjects ranging from microbiology to marketing. Considering the present global scenario, with factors such as climate change, war, and recession affecting supply chains worldwide, understanding the different aspects of food science and its connection with other fields is crucial for professionals, researchers, and the community at large. Edited by Bart Wernaart (Professor, Moral Design Strategy at Fontys University of Applied Sciences) and Bernd van der Meulen (Director, European Institute for Food Law), Applied Food Science is a comprehensive look at the scope, terminology, methods, and content around the different food sciences. The editors discuss the importance of mutual understanding and communication between the various branches of food science in this episode of Mahlzeit, the Humanities Matter special series brought to you by Brill.Guests: Bart Wernaart and Bernd van der MeulenHost: Ursula Stalmann

Esskultur und Essgewohnheiten sind ein prägnanter Teil von Kultur und entwickeln sich permanent weiter. Die Art, wie wir essen, ist nicht biologisch vorgegeben, sondern Ergebnis unserer sozialen und kulturellen Prägung. Warum haben sich bestimmte Gewohnheiten und Verhaltensweisen beim Essen im Laufe der Zeit durchsetzen können? Welche Entstehungsgeschichte steckt etwa hinter Esswerkzeugen und Geschirr? Martin Hablesreiter und Sonja Stummerer zeigen in ihrem Buch „wie wir essen“ viele Facetten der Nahrungsaufnahme. Sie werfen einen detaillierten Blick auf Besteck und Werkzeuge und auf Tischgewohnheiten und die kulturellen Unterschiede rund um Essen und Esskultur. Was sie zu diesem Buch inspiriert hat und was sie über Tischkultur und Nachhaltigkeit denken, hören Sie in dieser Sonderfolge des„ Humanities Matter“ Podcasts von Brill.----------Food culture and eating habits are a constantly evolving aspect of cultural design. The way we eat is not a biological trait but a result of our social and cultural conditioning. How have certain habits and behaviors while eating been able to assert themselves over time? What is the origin story of certain eating utensils?Artist duo Martin Hablesreiter and Sonja Stummerer document the nuances of cutlery, utensils, table habits, and the cultural differences surrounding food and eating culture in their book, “How We Eat”. Listen to what inspired them to write this book, as well as their views on sustainability in table culture, in this special series of the Humanities Matter podcast by Brill.  Guests: Martin Hablesreiter and Sonja StummererHost: Ursula Stalmann

Central Asia—the Eurasian heartland—is home to multiple culturally rich countries such as China, Iran, Mongolia, and Turkey. Naturally, with the advent of trade and globalization, multiple cultural exchanges occurred among these countries along the Silk Route, of which food was an essential aspect.In this episode of Brill's new Humanities Matter Podcast special series Mahlzeit, Dr. Eugene Anderson—a retired professor of Anthropology at the University of California, Riverside, talks about the various nuances and implications of these food exchanges, while discussing the book he has co-authored: “Crossroads of Cuisine: The Eurasian Heartland, the Silk Roads and Food: Crossroads – History of Interactions across the Silk Route, Volume 2.” His book delves deep into the history of foods, food exchanges and cultures, and the role they played in fostering a relationship between the East and the West.  Guest: Dr. Eugene AndersonHost: Leigh Giangreco

Food security is threatened the world over, with the number of chronically undernourished people increasing from 775 million in 2014 to 821 million in 2017. This situation is likely to worsen by the effects of climate change, which is exacerbating problems in agricultural food supply, particularly in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa. Under these conditions, will the world community be able to meet its target of ending hunger and malnutrition by 2030? We discuss this crucial humanitarian crisis with Ivo Wallimann-Helmer, Professor for Environmental Humanities at the University of Fribourg Environmental Sciences and Humanities Institute, in this very first episode of our special series, Mahlzeit, brought to you by Brill as part of the Humanities Matter podcast. Join us to learn more about Prof. Wallimann-Helmer's views on ethics, food security, and climate change as he discusses his edited book, Justice and Food Security in a Changing Climate.Guests: Ivo Wallimann-HelmerHost: Leigh Giangreco

The European Journal of Jewish Studies (EJJS) is a prominent voice in global Jewish studies, having delivered entirely new directions for research in the field. Recently, a new editorial team took charge of this prestigious journal. With the changing of the guard, the EJJS is all set for a major revamp.In this episode, the editors of EJJS—Marcin Wodziński, a professor of Jewish History & Literature at University of Wroclaw, and Katja Smid, a distinguished researcher in Sephardic Studies at the Spanish National Research Council in Madrid, discuss exciting new plans and future directions for the journal, as well as their motivation to revamp it. Among other issues, they discuss how upcoming issues will renew focus on thematic sections, starting with the first such section on Jewish history and culture in the Balkans, which is slated to appear in Spring 2023.  Guests: Marcin Wodziński and Katja SmidHost: Leigh Giangreco

The intricacies of imperialism and colonialism within the context of the Bible are nuanced and varied. Understanding the legacy of European Imperialism requires careful reflection of the Bible's affinity with the empire and concentration of power. In this episode of Humanities Matter, Dr. Steed Vernyl Davidson, author of “Writing/Reading the Bible in Postcolonial Perspective”, elaborates on the ambiguities of the Bible as an anti-imperial tool and his work in tracing the evolution of the Bible from its production in ancient empires to its role in the development of modern imperialism.The book sets the context within which further exploration of postcolonial biblical critical work can take place and lays out the challenges of intersectional work with queer studies, terrorism studies, technology, and ecological studies as future tasks. Guest: Dr. Steed Vernyl DavidsonHost: Leigh Giangreco

There has been no greater surge in global fashion trends and expressions of personal style than in the contemporary era of social media fashion influencers. But what constitutes “being in fashion” amongst this multiplicity of interpretations? In this episode of Humanities Matter, Dr. Laura Petican, Associate Professor and Director of University Galleries at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, and Dr. Jacque Lynn Foltyn, Professor of Sociology, Program Director BA Sociology, National University, San Diego, explore various disciplinary, professional, and creative perspectives to expand their proposition that fashion is about self-presentation. In Fashion: Culture, Commerce, Craft, and Identity, published by Brill and edited by Drs. Petican and Foltyn, is a deep exploration of fashion representations; being fashionable, shopping, luxury, and vintage; fashion materials, craft, industry, and innovation; museum-worthy fashion; and fashioning cultural identities.Guest: Dr. Laura Petican and Dr. Jacque Lynn FoltynHost: Leigh Giangreco

The NATO rules of engagement (ROE) are highly important political and strategic laws that determine the circumstances surrounding the use of armed conflict. However, these laws are often ambiguous and confusing. It requires a great deal of situational awareness to assess a hostile act or intent, and to know when it is lawful to participate in direct hostilities.Join us as we talk to Camilla Guldahl Cooper, Associate Professor at the Norwegian Defense Command & Staff College, whose book ‘NATO Rules of Engagement: On ROE, Self-Defence and the Use of Force during Armed Conflict' provides clarity about the nature of military laws, especially in contexts where they risk being detrimental for the people involved and for mission accomplishment. Guests: Dr. Camilla Guldahl CooperHost: Leigh Giangreco

The right to self-determination is, in some respects, the supreme right of rights, without which it is impossible to recognize a host of other human rights. The 2014–2015 crisis of Ukraine that continues with Russia's invasion in 2022 calls into question whether the case of the secession of Crimea can be justified by the rules of international law on self-determination.Joining us today on Humanities Matter are Dr. Majid Nikouei, SJD candidate at the University of Toronto, and Dr. Masoud Zamani, Assistant Professor of International Law and Law and Political Sciences Faculty at Shiraz University. Their paper, “The Secession of Crimea: Where Does International Law Stand?” published by Brill, delves into the controversial nuances of this issue.Guests: Dr. Majid Nikouei and Dr. Masoud ZamaniHost: Leigh Giangreco

The post-World War 2 period saw the emergence of several peace-keeping institutions. The Council of Europe is one such international organization tasked with the responsibility to uphold democracy, human rights, and the rule of law throughout Europe. In times of war, the world bears witness to an overwhelming breach of human rights–Russia's recent war against Ukraine is a case in point. During these difficult times, how does this organization–where expulsion of member states as punishment also means removing them from its purview of justice–maintain its integrity and fulfil its role?In the latest episode of War and Peace, Kanstantsin Dzehtsiarou, Professor in Human Rights Law at the University of Liverpool, and Vassilis P Tzevelekos, Senior Lecturer in Law at the University of Liverpool and a Member of the UN Human Rights Council Advisory Committee, put forth the suggestion that with the change in international law over the years, stricter sanctions should be in place to prevent human rights atrocities. They discuss this in context of their work “The Aggression Against Ukraine and the Effectiveness of Inter-state Cases in Case of War”, published by Brill.Guests: Kanstantsin Dzehtsiarou and Vassilis P TzevelekosHost: Leigh Giangreco

In the advanced capitalist nations, a new form of economic hierarchy is emerging, that of the professional class. While the managerial class thrives, the non-managerial workforce is plagued with decreasing job security, overqualified professionals, lesser role in organizational decision making, and increasing underemployment. And to bridge this gap, education is no longer the saving grace.  In this new episode, Dr. D. W. Livingstone, Professor Emeritus at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto, presents a novel research on the class structure on the professional front, based on his work, “Professional Power and Skill Use in the 'Knowledge Economy'. A Class Analysis.” The book delves deeper into the employment structure of economies, which is failing to accommodate even skilled labor in its economic fabric. Guest: Dr. D. W. Livingstone Host: Leigh Giangreco

The sudden Russian aggression on Ukraine, besides wreaking havoc on the latter, has created a ripple effect impacting the socio-economic conditions of the rest of Europe and the world. The carefully built security order has been dismantled, necessitating the forging of new trade ties and alliances. In the second episode of our new themed series War and Peace, Dr. Wolfgang Ischinger, former German ambassador and professor at the Hertie School in Berlin, focuses on Germany's reaction to Russian aggression on Ukraine. He talks about the stringent measures that Germany has had to take as an outcome, driven by a sense of moral duty toward Ukraine in this humanitarian crisis, in the context of his work “International Security in the 21st Century. Chapter: The Ukraine Crisis and the European Security Order." Guest: Dr. Wolfgang IschingerHost: Leigh Giangreco

Access to adequate food and nutrition is an essential human right. But ensuring food security has become a real challenge today. Climate change, natural disasters, and inefficient political systems are roadblocks in fortifying this basic need of human existence. In this new episode, Dr. Olga Śniadach, Assistant Professor of European law at the University of Gdańsk, talks about the changing definition of food security over time and the evolving policies to tackle the same, based on her co-authored work, “Towards a Redefinition of the Food Security Concept in the Light of Climate Change.” The article provides a legal perspective to food security with emphasis on European laws that now focus on sustainability as a basic principle to achieve the objective. Guest: Dr. Olga ŚniadachHost: Leigh Giangreco

The UN has established a legal framework for marine and maritime activities called the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). It is a convention that allows fishing, shipping, and exploration rights, among others, to countries over waters owned by them. However, with wars and annexations of territories, the rights of ownership become ambiguous. In such cases, how far is the UNCLOS competent in solving sovereignty issues?In the first episode of our new themed series War and Peace, Dr. Valentin Schatz, a postdoctoral researcher at the Chair for International Law of the Sea and Environmental Law at the University of Hamburg, talks about the issues of arbitration concerning territorial domination, citing examples of Chagos Archipelago and the South China Sea, while emphasizing the need for a reasoned and balanced argument when it comes to territorial sovereignty, in the context of his work “The Status of Crimea and the Sea of Azov as a Jurisdictional Hurdle in Ukraine v. Russia”, published by Brill.Guest: Dr. Valentin SchatzHost: Leigh Giangreco

The climate crisis is here; its impacts are tangible. But surviving heat waves and hurricanes doesn't mean we get through the crisis safe. What we need are systemic changes to the way we live and think. If science tells us about the climate crisis and its consequences, the humanities tell us how to navigate the crisis through systems' changes. So, in this episode, we stitch together our conversations with five experts from various fields of the humanities. We speak about moral duties and the ‘collective' nature of the climate problem, the trap of fossil capitalism, a historic litigation holding a corporate giant responsible for its global carbon footprint, the need to include gender in policy discussions on climate action, and the wisdom in starting young when attempting to effect a mindset change. We've come together to solve climate crises before (see here); we can do it again.

Amid recent debates on racial injustice in the U.S.A, it is important to acknowledge the brutal historical roots of modern-day racism. To truly understand this problem and stimulate more meaningful societal change, one cannot disconnect the present from the past.In this episode of Humanities Matter, Dr. Christine Sleeter, Professor Emerita at California State University Monterey Bay, discusses her new thought-provoking novel, “Family History in Black and White”. The book looks at contemporary racial dynamics, through the individual journeys of two competitors—white male and black female, vying for the same opportunity.With this book, Dr. Sleeter hopes to inspire her readers to confront their own (uncomfortable) familial histories so as to effectively engage with the issue of racism today and become better allies. Guest: Dr. Christine Sleeter Host: Leigh Giangreco

One of the outcomes of globalization is the growth of diasporic communities worldwide. This population has continued to face a lot of complexities due to differences in ethnicities. However, these communities have the potential to contribute immensely to a nation's development through their knowledge and skills. What is needed is to shed the ethnocentric lens for an inclusive one. In the third episode of our new themed series Migration, Dr. Sarah Peck, a Leverhulme Early Career Research Fellow at the Centre for International Development in Northumbria University, examines the role of diaspora in the development of a state, in the context of her work “Re-orienting the Diaspora–Development Nexus”, published by Brill.Guest: Dr. Sarah PeckHost: Leigh Giangreco

The Soviet Republic once held tremendous sway over the politics of Central Asia as the grand hegemon of the region. But now, in the post-Soviet world, geopolitics in this region is influenced by other powers, including the European Union (EU), and Central Asia's own tilt towards China. In this changed environment, is the EU adjusting its policies to foster strong democracies in the region free from authoritarian influences, both foreign and domestic? Will these changes be enough to ensure regional stability and human security and focus on good governance and development?In the second episode of our new themed series Migration, Dr. André W.M. Gerrits, professor of International Studies and Global Politics at Leiden University, talks about the changing political players in the Central Asian region and its implications and way forward for the EU and Russia, in the context of his work “Central Asia Under Brussels' and Moscow's Eyes”, published by Brill.Guest: Dr. André W.M. GerritsHost: Leigh Giangreco

Yiddish is part of the family of Germanic languages with influences of Hebrew and Aramaic and encompasses many dialects spoken in several parts of Europe. This renders a diversity to the language, the development of which merits exploration through a close scrutiny of its history. In this new episode, Dr. Bart Wallet, Professor of Jewish History at the Universiteit van Amsterdam, and Dr. Laura Almagor, Lecturer in Twentieth Century European History at the University of Sheffield, discuss the diversity in Yiddish language, its origins, and challenges, based on the recently published collection of articles titled “Yiddish in Europe” in the European Journal of Jewish Studies. The authors argue the merits of delving deeper into the intricacies of the Yiddish language as an integral part of Jewish studies and bringing it to the public eye. Guest: Dr. Bart Wallet and Dr. Laura AlmagorHost: Leigh Giangreco

The Schengen area consists of 26 European states, most members of the EU but some not, and consists of two main features: the absence of intra-Schengen state border controls on persons and a common external border control on entry into the Schengen area. However, this inclusivity has been threatened over time by events like refugee crises, terrorism, and a global pandemic. In light of the present refugee influx from Ukraine, the issue of border control in Europe merits closer inspection. In the first episode of our new themed series Migration, Dr. Elspeth Guild, Jean Monnet Professor ad personam at Queen Mary, University of London, takes us through the trajectory of abolition and re-introduction of border control in the Schengen states from its formation in 1985 to the present day, in the context of her work “Schengen Borders and Multiple National States of Emergency: From Refugees to Terrorism to COVID-19”, published by Brill.Guest: Dr. Elspeth GuildHost: Leigh Giangreco

The Samaritans have been around since biblical times. They share history with the Jews, Christians, and Muslims; yet their identity is at odds with the people who trace their roots to ancient Israel. Who actually are Samaritans? And why did these biblical people turn into a micronation in this age? In this new episode, Steven Fine, Dean Pinkhos Churgin Professor of Jewish History at Yeshiva University, and Director of the YU Center for Israel Studies and of the Israelite Samaritans Project, traces the history of the Samaritans from the ancient times to the present, while discussing his work, The Samaritans: A Biblical People. The book collates the memories preserved by the Samaritans and others, from the time of Moses to the modern day, and makes them mainstream for our understanding of an insider race, now rendered outsider. Guest: Prof Steven FineHost: Leigh Giangreco

Populism has been at the center of academic and non-academic discussions over the past century and one may argue that there has been an upsurge in populist movements in recent times, often with prominent religious ideals determining the course of political thought. Is populism, then, the source of politics in religion, or does political theology beat at the heart of populism? In this episode, Dr. Ulrich Schmiedel, Lecturer in Theology, Politics and Ethics at the University of Edinburgh, and Dr. Joshua Ralston, Reader in Christian-Muslim Relations at the School of Divinity, University of Edinburgh, help listeners find answers to these questions with respect to Europe and America through a discussion of their book "The Spirit of Populism: Political Theologies in Polarized Times."Guest: Dr. Joshua Ralston and Dr. Ulrich Schmiedel Host: Leigh Giangreco 

The emergence of self-government in the Jewish community in Eastern Europe has been a slow process, often encouraged by invitations of existing regimes and sometimes to escape state persecution. Nonetheless, the Jewish community has succeeded in establishing its autonomy as well as maintain a certain degree of control over its traditions. In this new episode, François Guesnet, Professor of Modern Jewish History in the Department of Hebrew and Jewish Studies at University College London, traces the travails and triumphs of the Jewish community in Eastern Europe from the Middle Ages to the present, based on his edited volume, “Sources on Jewish Self-Government in the Polish Lands from Its Inception to the Present.” The book offers insights into different aspects of Jewish sociopolitical life through expert translation of narrative sources in Hebrew, Latin, Yiddish, Polish, Russian, German, and other languages into English.Guest: Dr François Guesnet Host: Leigh Giangreco

The Pandemic led to a massive shift in the course of education as the world was forced to switch to distance learning. And with a new model comes new barriers, whether institutional, pedagogical, technical, or personal. These need to be solved through inclusive and strategic planning, comprehensive support infrastructure, collaboration among stakeholders, modern digital tools, and the creation of an environment of empathy and motivation both for the students as well as the instructors. In this podcast, Dr. Lauren Cifuentes discusses her book A Guide to Administering Distance Learning, published by Brill, and talks about how she was preparing for a shift to the online model of education even before the pandemic. She believes that with the right infrastructure and resources it can be better than traditional learning. Guests: Dr. Lauren CifuentesHost: Leigh Giangreco

The pandemic has rapidly changed the world, making it one rife with online activity and information abundance. Education systems must be modified to match this new world. It must cater to the entrepreneurial, competitive, and independent generation that thrives in this world.In this podcast, Susana Gonçalves and Suzanne Majhanovich discuss their book Pandemic, Disruption and Adjustment in Higher Education and talk about the changing needs of students today, the challenges of tailoring higher education to be in tandem with the growing world of technology, and how to maintain integrity and mental health in the face of it all. Guests: Susana Gonçalves and Suzanne Majhanovich Host: Leigh Giangreco

Formal education became widespread only as recently as the end of the 19th century, as a way to train people for jobs created by the boom in industrialization. Today, with most of those jobs phasing out, world politics radically changing at both the individual and macro levels, diverse cultures and disciplines increasingly coming together as communities, and the pandemic catalyzing a global move to predominantly e-learning, it may be time for us to rethink formal education. In this podcast, Dr. Rosemary Sage and Dr. Riccarda Matteucci discuss their book How World Events are Changing Education and talk about education in their day, what it has become for Gen Z, and lessons from pockets of the world where robots, online learning, and the science of human interest have been accounted for in education programs. Guests: Dr. Rosemary Sage and Dr. Riccarda MatteucciHost: Leigh Giangreco