Titans of Capital: How Concentrated Wealth Threatens Humanity, the upcoming book from Peter Phillips, professor of sociology at Sonoma State University, explores the influence of the “titans” — the board members of the top ten investment management firms who control nearly $50 trillion in assets. In conversation with Jacobin’s David Moscrop, Phillips explains how these 117 corporate overlords wield unparalleled economic and political power, shaping global policies and deepening economic inequalities. They exploit crises like global warming and rising food prices, using institutions like the World Economic Forum (WEF) to promote their interests.

Despite their immense power, they remain wary of mass politics and social movements, recognizing the potential for resistance from below.