A New Breed of American Oligarch

How has private wealth accumulation by a select few undermined both U.S. democracy and global security? Author and journalist Casey Michel joins Values & Interests to discuss his book, United States of Oligarchy. Drawing on Aristotle’s definition of oligarchy and the legacy of the Gilded Age, Michel argues that a small number of wealthy Americans are not only reshaping domestic politics but effectively privatizing U.S. foreign policy.

From technology leaders’ ties to authoritarian governments to the intersection of private investment and diplomacy, the conversation examines what happens when personal ambitions displace public responsibilities. What distinguishes today’s billionaires from earlier generations of American industrialists? And how might reforms to campaign finance, taxation, and financial transparency help restore democratic accountability?

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Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs is an independent and nonpartisan nonprofit. The views expressed within this podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Carnegie Council.