In Strangers in Their Own Land by Arlie Russell Hochschild, the author ventures to Louisiana bayou country to understand why conservative residents, despite being adversely affected by the political policies they support, remain loyal to the Republican Party and Tea Party movements. Through personal narratives, Hochschild discovers shared American concerns and seeks to explain the "great paradox," where economically disadvantaged people oppose government aid. The book includes themes of environmental destruction, economic hardship, and the cultural and demographic changes impacting white men, leading to their support for policies that seemingly go against their interests.

Arlie Russell Hochschild's Strangers in Their Own Land offers a revealing exploration of America's political divide, delving into the emotional lives of Tea Party supporters in Louisiana. Praised for its empathetic approach and thorough research, critiques highlight occasional oversimplification of complex issues. A compelling, albeit sometimes one-sided, glimpse into contrasting worldviews.

Readers who would enjoy Strangers in Their Own Land by Arlie Russell Hochschild typically have an interest in sociology, political divides, and cultural empathy. Those who appreciate Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance or What's the Matter with Kansas? by Thomas Frank will find Hochschild's exploration of American conservatism compelling.

Informative / Contemplative / Emotional / Challenging / Mysterious

- Strangers in Their Own Land by Arlie Russell Hochschild was a finalist for the National Book Award for Nonfiction in 2016, underscoring its critical impact and relevance.
- Arlie Russell Hochschild's work on Strangers in Their Own Land stemmed from her long-standing interest in emotional sociology, often exploring the dichotomy between cultural identity and socio-political beliefs.
- The author spent five years researching for Strangers in Their Own Land, primarily in Louisiana, to understand the "empathy wall" separating conservative and liberal Americans.

**Harold Areno**  
A "gentle Cajun pipefitter" whose family, deeply connected to Bayou D'Inde, has faced severe pollution due to industrial activities, affecting both their livelihoods and health.

**Janice Areno**  
Harold's niece, a devout Pentecostal and proud Republican, who derives her values from her faith and family, and works in various fields including managing land leases and running a hunting lodge.

**Bob Hardey**  
The mayor of Westlake and a self-described moderate Republican, who supports the expansion of a petrochemical plant in his community due to its economic benefits despite potential environmental concerns.

**Madonna Massey**  
A gospel singer who prefers church-based over state-based charity, firmly believes in the free market, and aligns with Republican views against government overreach in business regulation.

**Mike Schaff**  
A lifelong resident of rural Louisiana who experienced a devastating sinkhole due to insufficiently regulated drilling, yet remains a Tea Party Republican, valuing small government and personal responsibility.

**Lee Sherman**  
An 82-year-old former PPG worker, known for his openness about the need for environmental regulation while actively participating in Tea Party politics, driven by his own experiences in a polluting industry.

**Jackie Tabor**  
A homemaker and ardent Tea Party supporter from a suburb of Lake Charles, who bases her views on theological determinism, believing her role is to serve her family according to God's will.

Arlie Russell Hochschild

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Part 1: “The Great Paradox”

Preface-Part 1

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Part 2: “The Social Terrain”

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Part 3: “The Deep Story and the People In It”

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Part 4: “Going National”

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Strangers in Their Own Land: Anger and Mourning on the American Right

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