Too often debates about social inequality focus on the accuracy of data or modelling while missing the greater point about ethics and exploitation. In the wake of growing disparity between the 1% and other classes, this seminar combines philosophical insights with social theory to offer a much-needed political economy of life chances. Indeed, luck greatly influences a person’s quality of life. Yet little of our political analysis examines how institutions can amplify good or bad luck that widens social inequality. But societies can change their fortune.

In his new book, "The political economy of fortune and misfortune", Scott Timcke advances new thought on the role luck plays in redistributive justice in 21st century capitalism. Dr. Timcke will share insights from the book at this seminar, followed by a Q&A session with participants.

About the speaker

Dr. Scott Timcke is a comparative historical sociologist who studies race, class, and technology in modernity. He is a senior research associate with Research ICT Africa where he leads the AI & Democracy team. He is also a research associate with the University of Johannesburg’s Centre for Social Change and an affiliate with the Center for Information, Technology, and Public Life, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He has held fellowships with the Centre for African Studies, University of Leeds and the Center for Advanced Internet Studies.