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Seminar on the State and Capitalism Since 1800

Incidental Representation: How Special Interests Can Advance the Public Good


March 13, 2026
1:30pm - 3:00pm
Hoffmann Room, Adolphus Busch Hall Directions

Seminar on the State and Capitalism Since 1800

Incidental Representation: How Special Interests Can Advance the Public Good


March 13, 2026
1:30pm - 3:00pm
Hoffmann Room, Adolphus Busch Hall Directions
March 13, 2026
1:30pm - 3:00pm
Hoffmann Room, Adolphus Busch Hall Directions

Special interest groups are widely distrusted and often reviled: parochial, self-serving, and corrosive to democracy and the common good. In his book, Gautam Nair argues the opposite. He contends that concentrated interests can serve a vital function in democratic politics, helping to advance not only their own purposes but also that of a broader public through what he terms "incidental representation." Join us to discuss these ideas and what they mean for democracy today.

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** Please note: Events in this series do not include a presentation. Attendees of this seminar are expected to read a paper in advance and enter into a discussion. This is an in-person event. To receive a copy of the paper, please contact Kate Searle at ksearle@mit.edu. **

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