Prerequisite: None

Exam Type: No Exam

Debt is a powerful force in our market society. In addition to its economic significance, it implicates important social issues, including those related to entrenched race and gender discrimination and inequality. In this reading group, we will consider whether/how debt can function as a subordinating force and a limit on social mobility for historically vulnerable and disenfranchised communities. In thinking of debt in this context, we will grapple with difficult normative questions such as: (1) Who should and should not obtain and use credit in the first instance?, (2) For what purpose(s) should credit be available to economically vulnerable groups?, and (3) When/how should distressed debtors receive relief?

Note: This reading group will meet on the following dates: 9/6, 9/20, 10/4, 10/18, 11/1, 11/15