The Enduring Impact of 'The Power Broker'

The significance of Robert Caro's book 'The Power Broker' lies in its exploration of unchecked power through the life of Robert Moses, who shaped New York City without ever being elected to office. Caro emphasizes that while many assume power stems from democratic processes like voting, Moses held immense influence over the city for 44 years, demonstrating a different form of power. This dynamic raises critical questions about how power operates in government and why it often goes unrecognized by officials, even those in high office. The continued relevance of the book speaks to a broader interest in understanding the nature of power and its implications within society.