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Patriarchy and matriarchy are often considered opposites. In patriarchy, men predominantly dominate, while in matriarchy it is women. From a modern perspective, matriarchy is associated with equality.
Is patriarchy the opposite of matriarchy?
One might think that patriarchy is the opposite of matriarchy. “Patriarchy” is derived from the Latin word “pater,” which means “father.” Since “matriarchy” comes from ‘mater’ for “mother,” it is only logical that it means the opposite. The terms are mainly used in sociology and anthropology to describe different forms of social power and kinship structures.
- However, matriarchy is not considered to be the complete opposite of patriarchy in modern terms, as it is not about the rule of women over men. Rather, power and rule should only play a subordinate role in this matriarchal society. The focus is on equality between the two sexes.
- Patriarchy is a form of society that is widespread in many parts of the world today, including Germany. It is about the system of society, values, and norms. The structures can vary in intensity, and not all characteristics must be present for a society to be considered patriarchal.
- There are countless examples of patriarchal structures and various studies and research projects. Matriarchal structures, on the other hand, are much less prevalent and less researched. This is partly because, historically, only a few societies can be considered matriarchal. On the other hand, research has long been influenced by patriarchal perspectives, which has meant that alternative forms of society have received less attention.
- Examples of patriarchal social structures can be found in inheritance, where men are given preference in succession, or when women take their husband’s name upon marriage. In more strongly patriarchal societies, the father and later the husband have decision-making power over their daughter or wife, whether she is allowed to work or have her own bank account, for example. A significantly higher proportion of men in career professions, stereotypical toys for children, and the idea of God as male also point to a patriarchy. In addition, in a patriarchal society, the father is seen as the head of the family who provides financially for the family.
Where is matriarchy found?
There is currently no world power that is a matriarchy. However, there are certainly some peoples who live or have lived in a matriarchy. Interest in matriarchy is growing – mainly because women are increasingly dissatisfied with patriarchy.
- The Mingangkabau are often cited as an example of a matriarchal society. They are considered to be a society in which the female line of descent is decisive. This culture comprises around three million people. It is particularly interesting because it has matriarchal structures and belongs to Islam.
- The Mosuo, an ethnic minority in the Chinese province of Yunnan, also live according to matriarchal structures. Women own and inherit property, for example. In addition, there is no marriage in the Western sense, but rather what is known as a “visiting relationship.” Women and men live in separate households and relationships are conducted without living together.
- Research shows that there were several peoples who lived in matriarchal structures. Some of them still exist today. However, matriarchy is often only present in a significantly weakened form. This is also due to the history of colonization and, not least, missionary work.
The history of patriarchy
Patriarchy is still prevalent in many cultures, as it has become deeply entrenched over time. Patriarchal structures were already prevalent in ancient times, such as exclusive voting rights for men or exclusively male leadership positions.
- Although democracy developed early on in ancient Greece, women were excluded. For example, they were not allowed to participate in assemblies and elections. Furthermore, women were not allowed to perform as actresses in the theater, which is why female roles were played by men.
- Ancient Rome is another classic example of a patriarchal society. The father was called “pater familias” and had power over the family. Women, on the other hand, had few rights. After the fall of Rome, patriarchal structures also influenced other European societies, primarily through the feudal system and Christian church hierarchies.
- These social hierarchies were particularly noticeable in the Middle Ages. Men dominated politics, the economy, and religious institutions. The strongly Catholic faith contributed to women being oppressed in many areas and, in some cases, being regarded as morally weaker.
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