Patent Races and Racism

Lisa D. Cook, an economics professor known for her research on discrimination's economic impact, discusses the entrenched racism in patenting and its consequences for innovation. She highlights how systemic racism diminishes patenting among African Americans, linking violence to decreased economic growth. The conversation also delves into the urgent questions surrounding vaccine intellectual property during health crises. Additionally, Cook tackles gender disparities in the workforce, especially exacerbated by the pandemic, and the vital role diversity plays in fostering innovation.