This course provides an in-depth examination of U.S. antitrust law, including the statutory, judicial, and economic foundations of competition policy. Students will explore how antitrust law protects market competition, regulates monopolistic behavior, and responds to mergers, cartels, and exclusionary conduct.
Through analysis of the Sherman Act, Clayton Act, and FTC Act, as well as critical Supreme Court and agency decisions, the course addresses foundational antitrust principles, evolving economic theories, and enforcement practices. Special attention will be given to the tension between market efficiency, consumer welfare, corporate power, and innovation, especially in the context of digital platforms, labor markets, and global trade.
Course Objectives
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
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Understand the key statutory and doctrinal foundations of federal antitrust law.
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Apply antitrust principles to assess market structure, firm conduct, and competitive harm.
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Analyze the differences between per se illegal and rule-of-reason approaches.
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Evaluate the economic logic behind price fixing, monopolization, vertical restraints, and merger control.
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Navigate enforcement authority and guidance from the DOJ Antitrust Division, FTC, and courts.
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Critically assess the role of antitrust in modern sectors including technology, healthcare, and labor.
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Articulate competing views of antitrust’s proper role in society—from Chicago School efficiency models to Neo-Brandeisian approaches advocating for broader structural and political values.
