Research

My Research

My research explores the relationship between globalization, economic justice, public policy, and institutional legitimacy. I am particularly interested in how global economic institutions respond to demands for fairness, representation, and democratic accountability in an increasingly interconnected world.

My work is informed by both academic inquiry and more than three decades of professional experience in global finance, providing a practical perspective on the interaction between markets, institutions, and public policy.

Current Research

World Trade Organization and Economic Justice

My current doctoral research examines how the World Trade Organization (WTO) has responded to growing concerns regarding economic justice, democratic legitimacy, and the treatment of developing countries within the global trading system.

Using a qualitative case study approach, the research explores the WTO’s evolving response to critiques of fairness, inclusion, and representation, with particular attention to Special and Differential Treatment (SDT) and broader debates concerning globalization.

Research Interests

My broader research interests include:

  • Globalization and international trade
  • Economic justice and inequality
  • International institutions and global governance
  • Democratic legitimacy and public trust
  • Trade governance and WTO reform
  • International political economy
  • Public policy and institutional design
  • Artificial intelligence and the future of work
  • Humanistic capitalism and ethical markets
  • Catholic social thought and economic policy

Theoretical Perspectives

My current work draws upon a variety of theoretical traditions, including:

  • Nancy Fraser’s framework of redistribution, recognition, and representation
  • Theories of institutional legitimacy and democratic governance
  • International political economy
  • Economic justice and social contract theory
  • Catholic social teaching and human dignity
  • Humanistic approaches to markets and economic development

Research Goal

The goal of my research is not simply to evaluate institutions, but to better understand how economic systems and public policies can promote both prosperity and human flourishing.

I am particularly interested in identifying practical reforms that can strengthen legitimacy, expand opportunity, and improve outcomes for individuals and communities affected by economic change.

Future Directions

Future research may explore:

  • WTO reform and global trade governance
  • The relationship between globalization and democratic legitimacy
  • Artificial intelligence and economic transformation
  • Humanistic capitalism and stakeholder-centered models of enterprise
  • Comparative approaches to economic justice and public policy