Book review

Reviews

Who Rules America? by G. William Domhoff
Reviewed by Matthew Weidmann

As I’ve moved through my years as a student studying the field of sociology I, as many others, have faced the reoccurring challenge of marrying the dense, abstract theory laden principles of the field with contemporary, tangible, “real world” situations. No doubt such application is possible and intrinsic to my fascination with the discipline of sociology, however, as any student or lay person reading out of self interest can attest to; sometimes the valuable information is buried beneath lofty jargon. Thus, when a publication that applies the foundation of theory to a social issue in such a manner that all readers can appreciate and in fact, act upon it, it’s worth noting.

I am bringing to your attention G. William Domhoff’s, “Who Rules America?: Power, Politics, & Social Change”. I have found it to be one of the most important pieces of contemporary sociological literature to cross my desk in all my years as a student. Domhoff uses a brilliant application of empirical research, which includes case studies and up-to-date statistics, to provide his case for “who rules America”. Many important concepts are developed throughout the book such as the power elite, class awareness, the role of government, the corporate community, and policy planning. Knowledge of these concepts provides the reader with and important power! As Warren Goldstein from the University of Central Florida said, “this is the most important thing they [sociology students] need to know: who rules America”. This book is important because it provides the reader with information that helps to lift the veil of Marx’s “false consciousness”, and provides him/her with knowledge and resources that, if mobilized, can lead to significant social change.

Why should everyone care about who rules America? Knowledge into the inner workings of the upper class, the social networks they have established, and how they impact government is crucial in understanding a myriad of issues. It has implications when dealing with class conflict, socioeconomic stratification, and democracy in general. A brief trip down theory lane provides support for this. Conflict theorists and functionalists alike have recognized the existence of an upper class, an elite group of individuals at the top of the social order. Here in the United States many feel that the power held by this niche of society has far over stepped its bounds.

Important social change is needed in our country. Whether dealing with poverty, job-loss, health care, or environmental sustainability (to name a few) the role of the corporate community and their impact on government policy is deeply relevant. This book provides an inside look into the corporate interlocks that fuel the monopoly over policy planning in our country. As the cliché goes, Knowledge is power. As more and more citizens become aware of the intricacies of our democracy and how those in power exploit it, the more pressure that will rise for change. Domhoff’s book is an important piece in starting this process. “Who rules America” is must read for any individual seeking social change and a better America.

mwalsh @ April 10, 2008