If you look at capitalism and patriarchy, they're both…
![“If you look at capitalism and patriarchy, they're both such hierarchical, competitive, oneupmanship systems. They've trained us all [to think] that power means having all the goods or having the most money or having the most attention or having the most fame. That's not the power that interests…” quote by Eve Ensler](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/60b/eve-ensler-1402_attention_if-you-look-at-capitalism-and-patriarchy_1377185.jpg)
“If you look at capitalism and patriarchy, they're both such hierarchical, competitive, oneupmanship systems. They've trained us all [to think] that power means having all the goods or having the most money or having the most attention or having the most fame. That's not the power that interests me. Actually, the deconstruction of that power is what interests me.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote critiques hierarchical, competitive systems like capitalism and patriarchy, urging a redefinition of power away from material dominance toward more inclusive, relational influence.
In simple terms: Power should be about connection, not control.
Key Takeaway
Seek power that lifts others.
Themes
power
hierarchy
gender
economics
social critique
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- activism
- organizational leadership
- community building
- education reform
Key Concepts
feminist theory
critical theory
social constructionism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we measure power beyond wealth?
- What alternatives to hierarchical models exist?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook cooperative structures that still involve competition.