As a leading feminist and renowned economist, Nacy Folbre often writes about the intersection between feminism and economics. Using the eponymous invisible heart as a device to make her argument, Nancy Folbre writes that everyone in society must confront the increasingly important problem of balancing their own self-interests with caring for others - particularly the elderly, ill, and children, all of whom are unable to care for themselves.
The Invisible Heart primarily discusses three separate, but interconnected things: feminism, history, and economics. Folbre spends much of the time talking about the history of the world and the United States. Specifically, Folbre discusses the role of women and their roles throughout history. Historically, Folbre explains, women have had little freedom and few rights. As women gained more rights and freedom, consequences for the aforementioned people that need care intensified.
If society as a whole doesn't set new rules setting mutual responsibilities for caregiving, Folbre writes that everyone will be worse off for it. To that end, she offers policy reformation proposals related to welfare reform, school finance, progressive taxation, and globalization.
Ultimately, Folbre wants to create a world that is economically successful and viable for everyone in it. She also outlines strategies that balance altruism and self-interests.
