The world has entered an age of widening economic inequality. And a prominent feature of that inequality is the rise of private power. Billionaires command the resources that were once monopolized by states. We see this played out as Jeff Bezos and Richard Branson race each other into space.

The rise of private power, however, has grave implications for the democratic process. How is that power to be held accountable? Major donors gain private access to politicians. Lobbying firms draft statutes. The principle of free choice – fundamental to areas of law like contracts and employment relations – looks increasingly fictitious and unreal.

The University of St. Thomas Law Journal is hosting a conference intended to examine a series of issues associated with the emergence of private power on unparalleled scale.

Keynote speakers: Michael Every, global strategist, Rabobank Singapore; Zephyr Teachout, associate professor, Fordham University School of Law

This event will be offered on campus and online. The event is free and open to the public. Click on the link above to register. CLE credits applied for.

In the interests of protecting our community, we strongly urge all guests of the university to be fully vaccinated before visiting our campus. Further, face coverings are required in all indoor, public spaces regardless of vaccination status. If you feel sick, please stay home.