Melissa Jacoby

Melissa B. Jacoby, a Law Professor at UNC Chapel Hill and author of 'Unjust Debts', explores the complexities of the U.S. bankruptcy system. She discusses how specialized courts affect both personal and corporate bankruptcies, often entrenching existing inequalities. The conversation highlights disparities faced by low-income communities, the influence of the consumer credit industry, and the ethical concerns surrounding how wealthy families navigate bankruptcy. Greg and Melissa also examine the long-lasting impacts of these laws on justice and fairness.

Melissa B. Jacoby, Graham Kenan Professor of Law, dives into the complexities of America's bankruptcy system. She explains how it serves the wealthy while leaving marginalized communities more vulnerable. The discussion reveals how racial disparities in bankruptcy impact Black Americans and exacerbate economic inequality. Jacoby also highlights the preferential treatment corporations receive and the need for reforms to ensure fairness. Her insights illuminate the connections between bankruptcy and broader social justice issues, making a compelling case for systemic change.

Deepa Fernandes, a journalist known for her insightful interviews, talks with Melissa Jacoby, a law professor who critiques the U.S. bankruptcy system's racial and economic biases. They discuss how bankruptcy often overrides individual needs to favor corporations. Mara Kardas-Nelson, a journalist focusing on women’s experiences in Sierra Leone, shares her findings on the pitfalls of microcredit, revealing how it has trapped borrowers in a cycle of debt rather than providing relief. Together, they explore essential reforms needed in both systems.