Patriarchy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐จโ๐ฉโ๐ฆ
patriarchy
[หpeษช.tri.ษหr.ki ]
Definition
social structure
Patriarchy refers to a social system in which men hold primary power and dominate in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property. It often results in the systematic oppression of women and the marginalization of other genders. The term can also describe familial arrangements where fathers or elder males hold authority over women and children. Patriarchy is not only evident in specific cultures but can be seen as a global phenomenon that shapes societal norms and institutions.
Synonyms
machismo, male dominance, male supremacy.
Examples of usage
- The patriarchy has influenced cultural attitudes for centuries.
- Many feminist movements seek to dismantle the patriarchy.
- In a patriarchal society, women often face significant barriers to equality.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History
- Many ancient societies, like those in Mesopotamia and Greece, were structured around patriarchal systems.
- In medieval times, property inheritance typically passed through male lineage, limiting women's rights.
- Historically, the right to vote and participate in politics was first granted to men, showcasing power imbalances.
Cultural Impact
- Patriarchy has influenced literature, with countless stories reflecting male perspectives as the default.
- Movies and media often portray men in leadership roles, reinforcing societal norms about power dynamics.
- Feminist movements continue to challenge and critique patriarchal structures in culture and media.
Psychology
- Research shows that societies under patriarchal influence can foster gender stereotypes and biases.
- Men in patriarchal cultures are often brought up with expectations to be dominant or strong, influencing their behavior.
- Women in these societies may internalize roles that emphasize subservience or support for male authority.
Modern Discussions
- Contemporary debates highlight the need to dismantle patriarchal systems to achieve gender equality.
- Terms like 'patriarchy' are often used to analyze issues such as pay gaps, reproductive rights, and violence against women.
- Intersectional feminism critiques how patriarchy overlaps with classism and racism, affecting various groups differently.
Origin of 'patriarchy'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from Greek 'patriarkhฤs', meaning 'chief of a family' or 'father'.
- The suffix '-archy' means 'rule' or 'government', highlighting how the word represents a ruling system.
- It first came into common use in the 19th century, when feminist movements began to analyze social structures.
The word 'patriarchy' comes from the Greek 'patriarkhฤs', which means 'leader of a family'. 'Patria' refers to 'father' and ' arkhein' means 'to rule' or 'to lead'. Historically, the concept has roots in ancient societies where lineage and inheritance were determined through the male line. Throughout history, many cultures have established patriarchal systems that reinforced male authority and control, shaping the laws, religious practices, and societal norms that governed everyday life. During the feminist movements of the 19th and 20th centuries, the term gained traction as activists sought to critique and dismantle oppressive structures perpetuated by patriarchal systems. Today, discussions about patriarchy encompass a wide range of issues related to social justice, gender equality, and human rights.