A sociologist’s perspective on the Jason Arday story
A sociologist’s perspective on the Jason Arday story  
Podcast: Reasonably Optimistic
Published On: Fri Aug 21 2026
Description: The controversy surrounding Cambridge professor Jason Arday began with questions about his academic record and extraordinary personal story. It ended in tragedy. What can sociology tell us about how a scandal like this escalates once it's forced into public view?Host Megan McArdle talks with UCLA sociologist Gabriel Rossman about scandal, status and public shaming.Content warning: This episode includes discussion of sexual assault and suicide.Subscribe to The Washington Post here.