"Who Cooked Adam Smith's Dinner?: A Story About Women and Economics" by Katrine Marcal explores the often overlooked contributions of women in economic history. Marcal examines how traditional economic theories, like those proposed by Adam Smith, have largely ignored female labor and the complexities of household dynamics. By investigating the historical context, the book highlights the pivotal role women play in the economy, particularly in domestic work that supports broader economic functions.
Marcal contends that the traditional narrative surrounding economics is male-centric, which overlooks the value of unpaid work, often performed by women. She argues that this omission skews our understanding of economic systems and leads to flawed policies. By bringing women's contributions into focus, the author invites a rethinking of economic principles, urging recognition of the vital contributions made outside of formal labor markets.
The book serves as both a critique of conventional economics and a call to acknowledge the importance of women's invisible labor. It encourages readers to reconsider how societal value is assigned and who benefits from economic theories. In doing so, Marcal aims to inspire new conversations about gender, economics, and the need for a more inclusive understanding of economic value.