Once the ANC came to power, KaneBerman and the Institute were no less outspoken critics; after 1994 the old lefties became the new right, but now the challenge for liberals was to explain why a defence of economic freedom, private enterprise and private property was not only for the benefit of the rich but even more important for the poor. There was always the danger that liberalism could slip sideways into libertarianism, but the South African strand has deep historical roots that go back to Cape liberalism, economic and political traditions that grew out of Adam Smith and a fundamental belief in human equality and equality of opportunity. Kane-Berman is clearly critical of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the policies of black economic empowerment, but I don’t think he has all the answers for a country that has passed through a revolution and that still grapples with race and redress, youth unemployment and the lack of economic growth. For Kane-Berman, economic success requires a return to the basics of liberal democracy. Liberal pragmatism has to trump revolutionary ideology, but perhaps this view misses the complex and fractured history of this country. WR Reviewed by Katherine Munro
The Little Black Book,
A Resource Guide For Women Across South Africa By Precious Moloi-Motsepe
Image: Annalene JH Rautenbach
began in 1947, became legendary for its detailed information and analysis. Year after year it provided a damning indictment of the apartheid government. Kane-Berman grasped that the publication of research was its unique role and bore witness to what was actually happening in the country. His Institute stood for reasoned analysis, gradualist change and liberal principles and policies.
Developed by the Motsepe Foundation’s Women’s Unit, this book is like having all your most practical friends, experienced elders and professional experts at your side to help you. “It is my hope that this guide will be a handson resource to help women make informed decisions and to take charge of various aspects of their lives,” says Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe. As clearly and simply as possible, it provides information about your rights, health, education, economic empowerment, social and legal issues. Starting with what to do in an emergency, it also has advice about a multitude of situations you might face at some time. Just a small sample: enrolling your child at school; taking care of an elderly parent; budgeting; managing debt; dealing with addiction, depression and bullying; and drawing up a will. There are useful contacts for every topic and an index at the end. Best of all, it’s free. You can download the book from the Motsepe Foundation’s website (http:// motsepefoundation.org) and share it as long as you don’t try to resell it. Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe (MBBCh 1987) was a general practitioner for 20 years. She is executive chairperson of African Fashion International and works through several organisations to educate and empower people.
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