And we can extend this to a fourth point. Exactly the same
issues arise in relation to democracy. While, of course, being
included in the electorate is a great advance over being
excluded, what it will do for you in practice is another thing
altogether. It may have no influence whatsoever in the
spheres that matter in everyday life: the workplace; the family.
Taking control over one’s own life needs more than the
liberal rights, even including the right to vote. Once we have
achieved the liberal rights we cannot rest. The fight to make
them effective may be a long and difficult one. Reminding us
of this is part of Marx’s legacy, even if he would not have
wanted to put the point exactly like this himself.