Edited by Ewald Frie, Thomas Kohl and Mischa Meier

Why do things change at certain times and not at others? The contributions collected in this volume approach this question from the perspective of threat. Defined as the self-alerting which goes on within societies and social groups, threats open up windows of opportunity for change – though not always the ones hoped for by those who raised the alarm in the first place. But once threatened, social orders previously taken for granted become visible, debateable and therefore changeable. Looking at the relationship between threat and social change with thematic, spatial and temporal foci, the contributions of this five-section volume treat topics ranging from systems of belief in Ancient Europe to droughts in twentieth century Australia, from medieval urban riots to organized crime and peaceful protest nowadays.

Mohr Siebeck, 2024. 261p.

MAY CONTAIN MARKUP

By PAUL GINSBORG

Italy and Its Discontents: Family, Civil Society, State 1980-2001 by Paul Ginsborg delves into the intricate dynamics that shaped Italy during a pivotal period in its history. Ginsborg meticulously analyzes the relationships between family, civil society, and the state, offering a comprehensive exploration of the challenges and transformations that defined Italy from 1980 to 2001. Drawing on his expertise in Italian history, Ginsborg provides valuable insights into the complexities of Italian society, politics, and culture during these tumultuous years. A thought-provoking and informative read for anyone interested in Italian history and society.

NY. London. Penguin. 2001.. 538p.

MAY CONTAIN MARKUP

By R. H. Tawney

"Religion and the Rise of Capitalism" by R. H. Tawney delves into the intricate relationship between religion and economic systems, exploring the role of Christian ethics in shaping the emergence of capitalism. Published in 1926, Tawney's seminal work challenges conventional beliefs by examining how religious doctrines influenced the development of economic structures in Western societies. Through a critical historical analysis, Tawney presents compelling arguments on the impact of Protestant values on the rise of capitalism, shedding light on the moral and ethical dimensions of economic progress. Thought-provoking and meticulously researched, this book remains a classic in the field of economic history, inviting readers to reconsider the profound connections between religion, morality, and economic pursuits."

NY. Mentor. 1947. 289p.

Edited by Patricia G. Steinhoff

"Going to Court to Change Japan takes us inside movements dealing with causes as disparate as death by overwork, the rights of the deaf, access to prisoners on death row, consumer product safety, workers whose companies go bankrupt, and persons convicted of crimes they did not commit. Each of the six fascinating case studies stands on its own as a detailed account of how a social movement has persisted against heavy odds to pursue a cause through the use of the courts. The studies pay particular attention to the relationship between the social movement and the lawyers who handle their cases, usually pro bono or for minimal fees. Through these case studies we learn much about how the law operates in Japan as well as how social movements mobilize and innovate to pursue their goals using legal channels. The book also provides a general introduction to the Japanese legal system and a look at how recent legal reforms are working.

Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press, 2014. 196p.