Media

Without prosperity, health, and liberty, how long can state violence justify US authority?

My June 2026 article on Medium considers on what basis we can celebrate our government and justify its continued rule as the country turns 250. Drawing from social theory and research, I explain how the government's recent use of violence—from immigration enforcement to the war on Iran—resembles mob-type "protection" from manufactured threats, used to justify its authority amidst growing inequality, a troubled healthcare system, and rollbacks on civil liberties. I consider how this strategy is flawed and point to research that suggests democratic justice offers a more promising path forward.

My 23-Feb-2026 op-ed in the Baltimore Sun considers how recent aggressive immigration enforcement by ICE potentially undermines crime control efforts contrary to its stated purpose. I draw on my expertise in the study of neighborhoods, crime, and legal cynicism to explain why ICE's heavy handed approach likely harms beneficial social organization and trust within communities.

I organized the 2025 Eckert Lecture on Health and Inequality, which centers on the multifaceted nature of the opioid epidemic with an emphasis on recovery efforts in Baltimore City and other Maryland communities. Our panelists weigh in on the nature and impact of the local opioid crisis, understanding and treating opioid addiction, and efforts to prevent opioid misuse.

Check out my research presented for the 2024 Workshop on "Families in Perilous Times Policy Panel: Abortion in the Post-Dobbs Era"  hosted by the Council on Contemporary Families