Towards a definition of patriarchy

Heidi Hartman

This reading revolves primarily around the common portrayal of the traditional American family. More specifically, it addresses the idea that men are the sole money earners while women remain at home doing household chores. There are several reasons for these beliefs, including facts like men earn more money than women do on average and in turn, hold a higher status in society. Due to this, men also hold more power and control over the less dominant group (women). The reading has somewhat of a feminist approach and it also fails to introduce the potential benefits of a patriarchal society, but it gives the reader a better understanding of how both men and women function in society and how they are portrayed by others. My initial reaction involves disappointment because it is apparent that women are treated unfairly and not always given equal opportunities at work simply because of their gender stereotypes which label them as weak and incapable. I feel that while living in a patriarchal society has it’s benefits, it has developed into an unfortunate situation because it has interrupted the equality between men and women.