key term - Patriarchy

Definition

Patriarchy is a social system in which power is primarily held by men, where men dominate in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property. It is a system that privileges masculine traits and perspectives over feminine ones, and is deeply ingrained in many societies around the world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Patriarchy shapes and reinforces gender norms, with men expected to embody traditionally 'masculine' traits like aggression, dominance, and stoicism.
2. Patriarchal systems often restrict women's access to education, economic resources, and positions of power and leadership within society.
3. Patriarchy intersects with other systems of oppression, such as racism and classism, to compound the marginalization of certain groups.
4. Patriarchal attitudes and beliefs can be internalized by both men and women, leading to the perpetuation of gender inequalities.
5. Challenging patriarchy involves dismantling the social, political, and economic structures that privilege masculine power and control.

Review Questions

• Explain how patriarchy is manifested in the context of gender identity and expression (12.1 Sex, Gender, Identity, and Expression).
  • Patriarchy shapes and reinforces rigid gender norms, with men expected to embody traditionally 'masculine' traits like aggression and dominance, and women expected to be submissive, nurturing, and focused on domestic responsibilities. This system privileges masculine identities and expressions over feminine ones, leading to the marginalization and devaluation of individuals who do not conform to these narrow gender expectations.
• Describe the relationship between patriarchy and gender inequality (12.2 Gender and Gender Inequality).
  • Patriarchy is a key driver of gender inequality, as it concentrates power, resources, and social status in the hands of men. This system restricts women's access to education, economic opportunities, and positions of leadership, while reinforcing the idea that women are inherently less capable or valuable than men. Patriarchy intersects with other systems of oppression, such as racism and classism, to compound the marginalization of certain groups of women and gender-nonconforming individuals.
• Analyze how patriarchy shapes societal attitudes and beliefs about sexuality (12.3 Sexuality).
  • Patriarchal norms and values often seek to control and regulate female sexuality, while valorizing male sexual expression. This can lead to the stigmatization of certain sexual behaviors, particularly those associated with women, and the perpetuation of double standards. Patriarchy also contributes to the objectification of women's bodies and the use of sexual violence as a means of exerting power and control. Challenging patriarchal attitudes is crucial for promoting sexual autonomy, diversity, and justice.

Related terms

Gender Roles:

The socially constructed expectations and behaviors considered appropriate for individuals based on their assigned sex.

Hegemonic Masculinity: The dominant form of masculinity in a given society that is idealized and reinforced, often at the expense of other masculinities and femininities.

Feminism:

A range of social, political, and philosophical movements and ideologies that share a common goal of achieving gender equality and challenging patriarchal structures.