Patriarchy

Definition

Patriarchy is a social system in which men hold primary power and dominate in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property. This system influences gender relations and shapes societal norms, often resulting in the marginalization of women and non-binary individuals throughout history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Patriarchy has historical roots that date back to ancient civilizations, where men often assumed roles of authority and governance.
2. The Seneca Falls Convention in 1848 marked a pivotal moment in challenging patriarchy, as it called for women's rights and highlighted the need for gender equality.
3. World War I significantly altered traditional gender roles as women took on jobs previously held by men, temporarily challenging patriarchal norms.
4. The second wave feminist movement of the 1960s and 70s directly confronted patriarchy by advocating for reproductive rights, workplace equality, and against domestic violence.
5. The rise of the Religious Right in the late 20th century sought to reinforce patriarchal values, promoting 'family values' that often positioned women in submissive roles.

Review Questions

• How did the Seneca Falls Convention serve as a catalyst for challenging patriarchal structures?
  • The Seneca Falls Convention was groundbreaking because it directly addressed the inequalities faced by women under patriarchal systems. By producing the Declaration of Sentiments, it outlined grievances and demands for women's rights, including suffrage and education. This event galvanized early feminist movements and sparked further actions against systemic patriarchy across the United States.
• In what ways did World War I challenge traditional patriarchal gender roles, and what were the long-term implications of this shift?
  • During World War I, many women entered the workforce to fill jobs left vacant by men who went to fight. This shift challenged traditional patriarchal norms by demonstrating women's capabilities in roles outside of domestic spheres. The long-term implications included a gradual recognition of women's contributions to society, leading to increased advocacy for gender equality and influencing future movements aimed at dismantling patriarchal structures.
• Evaluate how Betty Friedan's 'The Feminine Mystique' addressed the issues stemming from patriarchy and influenced the second wave feminist movement.
  • 'The Feminine Mystique' highlighted the dissatisfaction many women felt with their prescribed roles as housewives within a patriarchal society. Friedan's critique of this limited identity resonated widely, prompting women to question their place in society. Her work played a crucial role in igniting the second wave feminist movement, which sought to address these grievances and push for broader social reforms aimed at dismantling patriarchy across various aspects of life.

Related terms

Matriarchy: A social system where women hold primary power, often characterized by female leadership in family and community structures.

Gender Roles: The societal norms and expectations regarding the behaviors, activities, and attributes considered appropriate for men and women.

Feminism: A movement aimed at achieving equality for women in political, economic, personal, and social realms, challenging the established patriarchal norms.