Striving for power is a natural human tendency. Government institutions are in place to make this drive towards power somewhat fair and democratic. But they fall short when it comes to internet platforms.

Over the last 20 years, internet platforms gained more power than many governments. They are now both creators and governors of commercial activity across continents. Democratic institutions in modern governments have been evolving for centuries to facilitate fair trade, but platforms like Amazon resemble earlier forms of predatory tactics towards merchants and exploitation of workers.

Let’s discuss governing digital commerce in a way that balances profit + organizational decision-making expediency with fairness + dignity of all parties involved, focusing on Amazon’s case.

Thanks to Roman for recommending this topic + the readings!

Readings

• Cloud Empires book review

Additional optional readings

• Amazon’s Antitrust Paradox by Lina M. Khan, which is long, but the abstract is good

• Understanding the Tradeoffs of the Amazon Antitrust Case

• Amazon workers’ unionization difficulties

Location

Enter the Mars Atrium via University Avenue entrance. We’ll meet at the food court in the basement. I’ll be wearing a bright neon yellow jacket.

Detailed Directions to the Food Court

Enter from University Avenue and walk east until you see escalators. Take the escalators down. The food court is to the east of the escalators. If you are lost/​confused, ask a security guard to direct you to the food court.