Why Hitting Back Doesn't Heal: Revenge and Its Social Costs

Fragmented Moments: A New Podcast Journey

Big news! After years of exploring sociology on As a Matter of Interact, I’m excited to launch my new weekly podcast, Fragmented Moments. While not strictly sociology, this show shares the same curiosity about human behavior, relationships, and the small moments that shape our lives. The new podcast was inspired by my role as Regional Director of Spiritual Care at a hospice company, Fragmented Moments explores real-life stories, reflections, and observations that reveal larger truths about ourselves and the world. This episode introduces the new show, explains its focus, and invites listeners from As a Matter of Interact to join me on this next journey. You’ll hear how even seemingly disconnected moments can offer insight, connection, and understanding—making this show meaningful for anyone navigating life or working in a caring profession. Follow Fragmented Moments and stay updated on future episodes.

Why Hitting Back Doesn't Heal: Revenge and Its Social Costs

This episode was inspired by growing political and ideological polarization in America and the urgent need for sociological, nonviolent responses. Dr. Cohoon examines the human impulse for revenge and why "hitting back" often fails to resolve the problem it aims to address. He draws on sociological insights to explain why punishment exists and who has the authority to enact it. He also shows how people dehumanize their opponents, which is often used to justify violence. The episode concludes with practical solutions that are grounded in both sociological understanding and moral reflection.

Busy Being Busy: Why Our Lives Feel Both Full and Empty

Dr. Cohoon explores the social roots of our obsession with busyness. Even though it is exhausting, why do people wear busyness like a badge of honor? Drawing on Max Weber’s classic theory of the Protestant Work Ethic, Dr. Cohoon analyzes how hustle culture moralizes productivity, shapes identity, and distorts priorities. The episode first offers the historical roots of busyness and how it became connected with morality. Next, Dr. Cohoon shows that the problem does not have to do with excessive activity, but rather priorities. The episode concludes by offering practical solutions on how listeners can resist the hustle delusion and live intentionally.

Academic Freedom Under Fire: Separating Fact from Fear

Dr. Cohoon unpacks the nature of academic freedom and why the public so often misunderstands it. He explores the growing disconnect between public perception and higher education’s real purpose and practice. Through three compelling vignettes, he invites listeners to use practical sociology to reflect, not react. Listeners will gain an understanding of academic freedom, problems with public oversight, and what’s really at stake in today’s academic debates.

Sociology Beyond Bootstraps: Resilience as a Social Act

Dr. Cohoon argues against resiliency as solely an individual act and instead shows that it is a social process. He outlines this sociology of resiliency by first proving that resiliency is not based on independence. Next, he provides the social role of resiliency. The podcast ends with ways to develop and foster resiliency.