The main distinction between patriarchy and feminism lies in their treatment of women; in a patriarchal system, women experience oppression and discrimination, while in a feminist worldview, women have equal rights to men. Patriarchy is a societal or governmental structure in which men hold power and women are largely excluded. In contrast, feminism is the belief in the social, political, and economic equality of the sexes, making these two concepts highly opposed.
Key Takeaways
- Patriarchy is a social structure where men hold power over women, whereas feminism advocates for the social, political, and economic equality of the sexes.
- In a patriarchal society, women are disadvantaged and suppressed, while feminism seeks to change the position of women and create and protect their rights.
- The primary difference between patriarchy and feminism is the position of women, with patriarchy oppressing and discriminating against women, and feminism aiming for equal rights between men and women.
What is Patriarchy?
Patriarchy primarily refers to a general social structure in which men possess power over women. In a patriarchal society, there is a male-dominated power structure, with men holding supreme power and predominating in roles of political leadership, social privilege, moral authority, and property control. Patriarchy can be considered a result of historically unequal power relations between men and women.
In a patriarchal society, women are disadvantaged and suppressed, with a noticeable under-representation of women in employment, industry, and mainstream institutions, particularly in decision-making policies. Male violence against women is another key indication of patriarchy. Women in a patriarchal society are often associated with qualities such as obedience, submission, and humility.
The literal meaning of the word patriarchy is ‘the rule of the father.’ In a patriarchal family, the father holds the authority to make all economic, moral, or social decisions, even those decisions involving other family members.
What is Feminism?
Feminism is primarily the advocacy of women’s rights on the grounds of the equality of the sexes. Feminists believe in the social, political, and economic equality of the sexes. In other words, feminism is a battle against sexism and discrimination against women. The concept of feminism is built on the belief that women should be allowed to have the same rights, opportunities, and power as men and be treated in the same way.
Though some people view feminism as a negative concept, it is one of the main causes of social changes regarding women’s rights. Feminist movements campaign for women’s rights, including the right to receive education, work, own property, earn fair wages, have equal rights in marriage, and hold public office. Feminist movements also work to protect girls and women from domestic abuse, sexual abuse, and harassment.
What is the Difference Between Patriarchy and Feminism?
Patriarchy is a general social structure where men hold power over women, whereas feminism is the belief in the social, political, and economic equality of the sexes. The main difference between patriarchy and feminism is the position of women. Women in patriarchy are under the control of men; they face oppression and are systemically disadvantaged, whereas feminism attempts to change the place of women in traditional societies by creating and protecting women’s rights.
In a patriarchal society, males are considered superior to females, and they have supreme power in political, social, and economic spheres. However, feminism advocates that both males and females are equal.
Summary – Patriarchy vs Feminism
Patriarchy and feminism are two entirely opposing concepts. The main difference between patriarchy and feminism is the position of women; in patriarchy, women face oppression and discrimination, whereas, in feminism, women have equal rights to men.
