More on CULTURAL STUDIES IN THE DIGITAL AGE — Edited by Fede Aldama, Memo Nericcio, and Antonio Rafele

 

Beyond Borders: Sergio Gomez Montero's The Border of Postmodernity and the Fight to Reimagine Power, Identity, and Culture

In an age where borders seem both more defined and increasingly blurred, Sergio Gomez Montero’s The Border: The Future of Postmodernity invites readers to step into a world of profound intellectual exploration. This collection of essays isn’t just a critique of contemporary culture; it’s an invitation to delve deep into the heart of what shapes our modern world– identity, power, and the very boundaries that we often take for granted.

Montero’s work is an intellectual mosaic, weaving together diverse fields like cultural anthropology, linguistics, political economy, and cultural criticism. His exploration is not limited to theoretical musings but extends into the real-world implications of power dynamics, particularly focusing on the relationship between Mexico and the United States. With meticulous attention to detail, Montero presents a compelling argument about the tensions between regional and national identities, urging readers to reconsider the ways in which these forces influence our understanding of self and others.

The crux of Montero’s exploration revolves around the intersection of worldview, discourse, and literary practice. He challenges the notion of boundaries– both literal and metaphorical– by focusing not just on economic exploitation but on the subtler, more insidious forms of domination that underpin our global system. Montero’s work is not for the faint of heart; it demands that we question not only how we define cultural values but also who controls the narratives that define us.

“I want to go beyond the purely economic, that is, the field of exploitation, in order more adequately to enter upon the still obscure and slippery terrain of domination and power, where territorial limits are erased, from the moment in which sovereignty and nationalism are established as values in and of themselves of the dominant hegemonies.” - Sergio Gomez Montero

The Border is more than just an academic exploration– it’s a call to rethink the narratives we live by and to recognize that the borders we face are often more than just lines on a map. They are the very frameworks that shape our identities and our place in the world. If you’re ready to question the boundaries of power, culture, and self, Montero’s work is essential reading.

For those familiar with the intellectual rigor of thinkers like Roland Barthes or Edward Said, The Border will feel like a natural extension of that critical tradition. Montero’s nuanced, multifaceted approach to understanding power and identity provides readers with a fresh lens through which to view contemporary cultural and political struggles. Whether you are drawn to the complexities of postmodern thought or simply seeking a deeper understanding of the forces shaping our world, this book offers valuable insights that will resonate long after the final page is turned.

Sergio Gomez Montero is widely recognized as one of the most important thinkers in northern Mexico. His contributions to cultural criticism, public administration, and pedagogy span several decades of activity. Sergio Gomez Montero is Director of the National University of Education in Mexicali, where he resides. 

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Publisher: ‎San Diego State University Press; First Edition (January 1, 1994)

Language: English

Paperback: 174 pages

ISBN-10: 1879691256

ISBN-13: 978-1879691254

Exploring the Future of Cultural Studies in the Digital Age

What does cultural studies look like in a world fundamentally altered by AI, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the rapid advancements across the sciences, social sciences, and humanities? Cultural Studies in the Digital Age offers a compelling exploration of these pressing questions, bringing together a diverse range of interdisciplinary inquiries and critical perspectives that examine how digital culture shapes contemporary society. 

This anthology features contributions from a distinguished group of scholars, including Federico Tarquini, Antonio Rafele, Tito Vagni, Gwendolyn Spring Kurtz, Kristal Bivona, Luca Acquarelli, and many others. Their work spans topics as varied as Disney, fashion photography, video games, social media influencers, memes, Instagram, virtual reality, and social justice. Edited by Antonio Rafele, an esteemed cultural critic; Frederick Luis Aldama, a leader in cognitive studies and Latinx diasporas; and William A. Nericcio, a pioneering figure semiotics and literature, this volume promises to be a critical resource for anyone engaged with the rapidly evolving intersection of culture and technology. 

Cultural Studies in the Digital Age does more than revisit long-standing questions--it initiates bold new conversations that challenge our understanding of media studies, political culture, image analysis, and social justice, among many other topics. Whether you're an academic, a student, or someone interested in the impact of digital technologies on modern society, this collection is essential reading. 

Michael P. Ryan, Professor Emeritus at Temple University, writes: "Cultural Studies in the Digital Age is a remarkable collection that defines the cutting edge of Cultural Studies. With essays that range from photography to emotion, from digitally to architecture, it should be required reading for all students of culture. The editors have assembled an impressive team of scholars who are insightful, creative, and committed. They don’t let you down. And the book as a whole leaves one with the sense that Cultural Studies have established itself successfully in the modern academy. Cultural Studies in the Digital Age contains great work, and it suggests great work lies ahead." 

Prepare to engage with a groundbreaking examination of digital culture. Cultural Studies in the Digital Age is now available from Hyperbole Books--your guide to understanding the dynamic cultural landscape of the 21st century.

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From the Borderlands to the Bookshelves: Why Border Citizen Is the Story We All Need Right Now

Border Citizen by Ralph Inzunza is a groundbreaking young adult fiction novel and the debut publication of Xopan Books, a new imprint of SDSU Press. Set against the backdrop of the 1980s civil rights movement, the story follows Carlos Reyes, a determined teen growing up in Santa Ysabel, a small town in the United States-Mexico borderlands. Carlos comes from a family deeply involved in Chicanos en la Frontera, witnessing firsthand the discrimination and challenges faced by his community.

When a close family friend, Jesus “Chucho” Davila—his best friend’s older cousin—is unjustly murdered by local police, Carlos realizes that traditional methods of picketing and protesting aren’t enough. Fueled by anger and a desire for justice, he takes bold action. His determination inspires his father to run for City Council, and despite the challenges of high school life, Carlos throws himself into the campaign. Balancing local politics, personal struggles, and his fight for justice, Carlos embarks on a journey of resilience and hope.

Author Ralph Inzunza brings authenticity and passion to Border Citizen, drawing from his own life experiences. Born and raised along the United States-Mexico border, Inzunza grew up in a politically active family and was deeply influenced by the Chicano Movement. While pursuing his undergraduate degree in Political Science at San Diego State University, he became a prominent member of MEChA, a student organization dedicated to cultural awareness and political activism. Later, he earned a Master’s degree in Latin American Studies and served as a City Council member in 2001, representing a district with a significant Latino population.

After leaving his political career, Inzunza discovered a love for writing. His deep commitment to justice and advocacy for underserved Latino communities continues to inspire his work. With Border Citizen, he delivers a powerful and poignant story that resonates with readers of all ages.

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Published December 2023

San Diego State University Press

Paperback: 200 pages

ISBN-10 : 1938537629

ISBN-13 ‏: ‎ 978-1938537622

The Art and Science of Humor: What Sickness, Suffering, and Death Walk into a Bar Teaches Us

 

“Laughter is powerless over death, that much is true, but maybe it has some power over life.”

     — Ricardo Araújo Pereira

In Sickness, Suffering, and Death Walk into a Bar, Ricardo Araújo Pereira explores the essence of humor—what makes it work, why it matters, and how it transcends boundaries. Drawing from sources like the Bible, political science, rhetoric, and the history and philosophy of humor, Pereira dissects comedic strategies with brilliance and wit. He connects figures such as Charlie Chaplin and Jacques Tati, Machado de Assis and Franz Kafka, Fernando Pessoa and Mark Twain, and even the Bible and Greek mythology, demonstrating that humor is a universal art form understood across linguistic, regional, and political divides.

Taking a humanistic approach, Pereira showcases his vast knowledge of humor through deep analysis and insightful theories. While Sickness, Suffering, and Death Walk into a Bar won’t teach you to write Pereira-level jokes, it offers a fascinating look at comedy's anatomy, leaving readers with a profound appreciation for its power and complexity.

Since the early 2000s, Pereira has been a beloved humorist in Portugal, amassing a loyal fanbase. His career evolved from communication and media to journalism and scriptwriting for renowned comedians. He became a household name with Gato Fedorento (Smelly Cat), a comedy show that gained a cult following and solidified Pereira as its standout star.

After Gato Fedorento ended its five-year run, Pereira continued to expand his comedic influence. He wrote humorous columns for Brazilian and Portuguese newspapers, created social media content, and participated in political debates—all while maintaining his absurdist, satirical, and playful style of humor. His dedication to finding outlets for his creativity has made him one of the most versatile voices in comedy today.

"This is my hypothesis: humor, or a sense of humor, is, in truth, a special way of looking at things and thinking about them. It’s rare, not because it is the gift offered only to a chosen few, but because this way of seeing and reasoning is quite different from what is conventional—sometimes it's just the opposite. Most people are not interested in relating to the world that way, or they can’t afford that luxury. We are trained to know what things are, not to waste time investigating what they seem to be, or what they could be."

— Ricardo Araújo Pereira 

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Published August 8, 2024

San Diego State University Press

Paperback: 102 pages

ISBN-10 : 1938537696

ISBN-13 : 978-1938537691