Patriarchy
A summary written by: Lindsay Brookshier
What does patriarchy mean?
Patriarchy is defined as a social structure that is centered and controlled by men. The author Allan Johnson has a few basic concepts that make up the central concepts of a male powered society.
Male Dominated
Only the most powerful roles of society are reserved for men. This does not necessarily mean that women cannot integrate themselves into these roles but that they are primarily reserved for men and women being in these roles are the exception rather than the norm.
Obsession with Control
Men are elevated in the social structure with their obsession with control and women are devalued in the society due to their lack of control. Women are assumed to need men's protection, supervision and guidance to have control.
Male Identified
Aspects of society and personal attributes are highly associated with masculine qualities. Personal attributes and social activities associated with women are devalued in the societal structure.
Male Centered
That the society's attention is focused on men and that women take the sidelines in our culture. Public attention is focused on men's lives, experiences and traits that are valued in society.
Questions about patriarchy? Fire away in the comments!
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