Power, Philosophy and Egalitarianism - Philosophical

In this review of Power, Philosophy and Egalitarianism, Robert C. Smith offers a measured, scholarly examination of the political roots of racial and sexual subordination in the United States. The book is for readers who want a rigorous blend of political theory and empirical insight rather than a polemic; its single biggest reason to buy is Smith's central claim that equalitarianism is primarily a matter of politics and power, explored through comparative analyses of social contract liberalism and Marxism. This review highlights how Smith maps power resources and proposes practical bases for advancing substantive equality.

Key Features

• Comparative analysis: Smith compares major strands of liberal thought and Marxism to clarify differing explanations for the subordination of blacks and women, helping readers understand theoretical stakes.
• Focus on power: The book frames sexual and racial equalitarianism as political struggles over power, which gives activists and scholars a practical lens for strategy.
• Nine power bases: Smith identifies and analyzes nine specific power bases, such as money and knowledge, which readers can view as levers for advancing equalitarian goals.
• Interdisciplinary approach: By combining philosophical argument with empirical concern, the book bridges abstract theory and real-world social conditions for deeper insight.
• Moral and substantive emphasis: Smith stresses both moral reasoning and substantive outcomes, offering a framework for thinking about justice that goes beyond formal equality.

Who It's For

This book is aimed at graduate students, scholars of political philosophy, and policymakers interested in the intersections of race, gender, and political power. It will be particularly useful to readers who already have some familiarity with social contract theory or Marxist critiques and who want a focused account of how power operates in struggles for equalitarianism.

Those looking for a quick overview, a popular history, or detailed empirical case studies should look elsewhere; Smith's work is analytic and theoretical rather than a how-to manual or a broad narrative history.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Clear comparative framework that distinguishes liberal and Marxist accounts of subordination.
• Practical orientation in naming nine power bases that can inform strategy and policy.
• Thoughtful blend of moral theory and empirical concern that deepens the discussion of equality.

Cons

• Theoretical density may be challenging for casual readers seeking accessible prose or narrative examples.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Robert C. Smith's book is a valuable, well-argued resource for readers who want a theoretically robust account of how power shapes racial and gender inequality. Its comparative approach and specific list of power bases make it a useful reference for scholars and strategists, and it offers strong value for anyone committed to understanding the political mechanics of equalitarian change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the book propose practical steps for activists?
The book identifies nine power bases to be acquired and manipulated, which provides conceptual tools activists can adapt into practical strategies.

Is prior knowledge of political theory required?
Some familiarity with social contract theory or Marxist critique helps, as the analysis engages theoretical comparisons rather than introductory overviews.

Does the book focus equally on race and gender?
Yes; Smith examines the subordination of both women and blacks and discusses them within a shared framework of political power and equalitarianism.