Social Inequalities - Gender and Patriarchy

Social Inequalities ANTH 2301 Gender and Patriarchy Understanding how power dynamics are skewed in favour of males while qualities associated with femininity are neglected is essential to comprehending patriarchy, a word frequently used to describe a system of societal inequality based on gender. With origins in male lineages and environments where males predominately retain political, social, and economic power, this system has a long history. The claim that patriarchy no longer exists in contemporary culture has been fiercely disputed, despite advancements in gender equality. According to some social critics, men and women in today's society have equal chances in terms of work, rights, and pay. Many anthropologists and social scientists, however, disagree with this viewpoint by emphasising the enduring—though occasionally subtle—ways patriarchy still affects women's lives. Race and class are two factors in social life that are closely linked to patriarchy. During her research in "Meadow View," a poor suburb with a large Black population, sociologist Sharon Hicks-Bartlett (2000) discovered particular types of oppression that the women in the area experienced. These women faced many structural challenges, yet they were frequently expected to keep their families together. Women in Meadow View had to deal with the difficulties of working part-time, low-paying jobs in a place where there were few public transit options, including buses. This situation demonstrates how gender and economic disadvantages combine to make it more difficult for women to sustain stable families. Furthermore, interpersonal dynamics and internalised ideas are two more ways that patriarchy influences society in addition to exterior structures. This may be seen in the way women "compete to lose," purposefully limiting their achievements in order to be accepted by society. An insightful illustration of this phenomena was found in anthropologist Signithia Fordham's (2013) research of Black teenage females attending the eponymously called "Underground Railroad High School," a mostly White high school. Fordham discovered that in an effort to blend in with their friends and prevent social rejection, these girls frequently minimised their academic accomplishments. They occasionally perceived academic achievement as a social barrier, particularly when their aims were more in line with those of their families and communities than with their own unique academic or professional achievements. The effects of patriarchy are further complicated by the interactions between gender and other axes of identity, such as race and social class. Lower socioeconomic status and women of colour frequently face many levels of prejudice and disadvantage added to one another. This intersectionality highlights how complex patriarchal oppression is. The expectations that are put on women in communities such as Meadow View, for instance, demonstrate the ways in which racial and economic settings influence the enforcement of gender norms. In addition to fulfilling the conventional tasks of carers, these women deal with additional challenges stemming from systematic neglect and unstable economies. Insidious manifestations of patriarchy exist, such as cultural norms and societal expectations that uphold gender inequality. These expectations frequently determine how men and women should behave, which feeds prejudice and closes doors. Cultural and social hurdles still prevent actual gender parity, even in settings where formal and legal equality is supposedly attained. For example, the phenomena noted by Fordham, in which Black adolescent girls' academic progress is minimised in order to meet peer expectations, is a reflection of wider cultural beliefs that diminish the accomplishments and intellectual capacity of women. Furthermore, it is impossible to ignore patriarchy's economic component. Women continue to suffer substantial salary disparities, occupational segregation, and obstacles to development in several professions, notwithstanding advancements in certain areas. This economic inequality is a glaring example of how entrenched patriarchal systems are in modern society. Women's work is frequently underappreciated in terms of pay and social respect, especially when it comes to caring and household responsibilities. Women's financial autonomy and authority are restricted by this undervaluation, which also sustains economic reliance. Policies and behaviours that harm women institutionalise patriarchy and make it more persistent. For example, women, who are frequently the primary carers, are disproportionately affected by insufficient maternity leave rules, a shortage of reasonably priced daycare, and rigid work schedules. Gender inequality is further entrenched as a result of these institutional restrictions that make it difficult for women to reconcile their domestic and professional obligations. Furthermore, patriarchal ideals are strongly reinforced by the media and popular culture. The range of acceptable behaviours and objectives for women is constrained by the way women are portrayed in the media, which frequently perpetuates old gender norms and stereotypes. These portrayals affect how society views women and girls as well as their goals and sense of self. Gender biases can affect students' experiences and learning results in educational environments. The curriculum, classroom relationships, and expectations of teachers can all reflect and perpetuate patriarchal standards. Studies have revealed, for instance, that professors may inadvertently push boys more in maths and scientific classes while steering girls towards the arts and social sciences. These prejudices might affect students' expectations for their careers and academic self-concept, which can prolong gender gaps in a number of professions. Biases towards patriarchy can also be reflected in and reinforced by the judicial system. While laws encouraging gender equality are present in many nations, there may be disparities in how these laws are applied and upheld. Legal prejudices can also be seen in sectors like family law, where preconceived notions and established gender standards may have an impact on divorce settlements, custody judgements, and domestic abuse cases. Microaggressions and gendered expectations are examples of subtle types of discrimination that can make the workplace inhospitable for women. These encounters may result in increased stress, decreased work satisfaction, and increased female turnover rates. Women frequently have less access to professional networks and mentoring, which are essential for job advancement, which further reduces their chances of success and personal development. There are many instances of tenacity and defiance of patriarchal systems in spite of these obstacles. The laws, behaviours, and cultural norms that support gender inequity are still being pushed for change by women and their allies. To advance gender justice and women's empowerment, worldwide initiatives, advocacy groups, and grassroots movements put up endless effort. Raising awareness and educating people are essential parts of these initiatives. Society may advance towards more equality by questioning established gender norms and encouraging a variety of representations of gender identities and roles. The widespread effect of patriarchy may be undermined by promoting critical thinking and creating inclusive settings in businesses, communities, and educational institutions. In conclusion, even though gender equality has come a long way, patriarchy's effects can still be seen in many facets of modern life. Patriarchy still shapes women's experiences and prospects in a variety of ways, including interpersonal interactions, cultural norms, institutional impediments, and economic inequality. A more just and equal society can only be achieved by acknowledging and resolving these persistent issues. Sociologists and anthropologists like Sharon Hicks-Bartlett and Signithia Fordham's work shed light on the intricate workings of patriarchy and emphasise the significance of ongoing attempts to realise true gender equality.