Patriarchal dominance as a structural issue
What is patriarchy?
"Patriarchy is a kind of society organized around certain kinds of social relationships and ideas. As individuals we participate in it... patriarchy can exist without men having "oppressive personalities" or actively conspiring with one another to defend male privileges" (Johnson, 333)
How do boys typically learn about masculinity from their families and communities?
Boys typically learn about masculinity from their families and communities through the behaviors and attitudes they observe in male role models like fathers, brothers, and other men. They see what is considered "manly" through activities, expectations, and comments about what boys should or shouldn't do. Communities also help shape ideas about being a man through social norms, media, and everyday interactions.
what is white privilege?
White privilege refers to the unearned advantages and benefits that white people receive in society simply because of their race. As McIntosh explains, while her racial group was made confident and comfortable, "other groups were made unconfident and uncomfortable. Whiteness protected her from many kinds of hostility and distress, which she was subtly trained to inflict upon people of color." (McIntosh 6)
How might being a Muslim teenage girl affect your experiences in a predominantly non-Muslim society?
Being a Muslim teenage girl in a predominantly non Muslim society might mean facing misunderstandings or stereotypes about my religion and culture. I might feel different because of how I dress or because of my religious practices such as praying or fasting during Ramadan. This can sometimes lead to feeling excluded or having to explain my beliefs more often. However, it can also provide opportunities to teach others about my culture and create understanding.
What is ableism?
Ableism is when people with disabilities are treated unfairly or seen as less capable just because of their disabilities. It includes attitudes, actions, or policies that discriminate against them and make it harder for them to live their lives fully and equally. "Both disabled and nondisabled people can perpetuate or work to ameliorate the objectification of disabled people, the lack of subjectivity, the absence of voice, and the absence of self-definition and self-determination. Nondisabled people, though, have a particular responsibility to engage consciously and deliberately with these issues in their scholarship and teaching to avoid contributing to the problem" (Rohrer 39).
How does patriarchal dominance show up in workplace hierarchies?
Patriarchal dominance in the workplace means men usually have more power and higher positions. Women often get paid less for the same work and might not get promoted as easily. Workplaces might also favor traits like being tough and competitive which can disadvantage those who don't fit that mold. In many work places leadership positions are almost always occupied by men which can limit career advancement opportunities for women. This all adds up to men having more control and influence at work.
What are some common traits or behaviors that are often associated with traditional masculinity?
Traditional masculinity often means being tough, not showing emotions, being competitive, and focusing on physical strength. Men and boys are usually taught to be self reliant, dominant, and to avoid showing vulnerability. Family, media, and society reinforce these traits shaping how boys learn about being men.
what is male privilege?
Male privilege means that men often have advantages in society just because they are men. According to McIntosh, "Those men who do grant that male privilege takes institutionalized and embedded forms are still likely to deny that male hegemony has opened doors for them personally. Virtually all men deny that male over reward alone can explain men's centrality in all the inner sanctums of our most powerful institutions"(McIntosh 2). This means that even when men acknowledge that society is set up to favor them they often don't believe it has personally helped them get ahead.
When did you start to understand your own personality and identity?
I started to understand my own personality and identity during my teenage years. It's a time when I began to reflect on my likes, dislikes, values, and how I relate to others. This self awareness grew stronger as I experienced different situations and learned more about myself. "This new sense of possibility fuels the need for thought and action leaders to fashion new and effective strategies to deliver equitable opportunity, security, and well-being to those who have been historically marginalized and underserved." (African American Policy Forum, 2)
How can ableism affect women with disabilities differently than men?
Ableism can affect women with disabilities differently than men because women often face additional challenges like gender discrimination and body politics. This means they might experience more barriers in areas like healthcare, employment, and social acceptance, making it harder for them to access the same opportunities and support as men with disabilities.
In what ways does patriarchal dominance influence family dynamics?
Patriarchal dominance in family dynamics often means that men especially fathers have more authority and decision making power. This can result in traditional gender roles where men are seen as the breadwinners and women take on more caregiving and household responsibilities. It can also limit the opportunities and freedoms of women and girls within the family reinforcing unequal power dynamics.
How can traditional views of masculinity negatively impact men and boys?
Traditional views of masculinity can negatively impact men and boys by putting pressure on them to always appear strong, tough, and unemotional. This can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression because they might feel they can't express their true feelings or ask for help. It can also create unhealthy behaviors, like aggression or avoiding activities seen as "unmanly" limiting their personal growth and relationships.
How does male privilege affect job opportunities?
Male privilege affects job opportunities by often giving men an advantage in hiring, promotions, and pay. Men might be seen as more suitable for leadership roles or certain jobs even if women have the same or better qualifications. This can result in women being overlooked or not given the same opportunities to advance in their careers leading to gender inequality in the workplace.
Can you share an instance where you felt oppressed because of your gender or religion?
An instance where I might have felt oppressed because of my gender or religion could be when people assume I can't play a sport just because I'm a girl or when they think I'm not fun to hang out with because I'm a Muslim girl. These stereotypes can make me feel excluded and misunderstood and it's unfair to be judged based on such assumptions rather than who I really am.
What are some challenges women with disabilities face in terms of body politics?
Women with disabilities face challenges with body image because society often has narrow standards of beauty and physical ability. They might feel excluded and have low self esteem for not fitting these standards. To continue, they may struggle to get the right healthcare and support for their needs making it even harder to feel good about their bodies.
How does patriarchal dominance affect how media shows gender roles?
Patriarchal dominance in media often means that men get more screen time and are shown in powerful active roles while women are often portrayed in supportive or stereotypical roles. This can reinforce traditional gender roles making it seem like men are the leaders and women are not as important.
What are some actions people and communities can do to challenge harmful masculinity norms?
Individuals and communities can challenge harmful masculinity norms by creating open conversations about emotions and encouraging boys and men to express their feelings. Support diverse role models who break traditional stereotypes and showing that it's okay to be vulnerable can also help. Communities can make safe spaces for men to share their experiences and create activities that value empathy instead of competition and toughness.
Can you give an example of white privilege in everyday life?
An example of white privilege in everyday life is when a white person goes shopping and isn't followed or watched closely by store employees while a person of color might be. This happens because of stereotypes and biases that unfairly assume people of color are more likely to steal giving white people an unearned sense of trust and freedom in such situations.
What moments in your life have made you aware of the privileges you hold as part of a middle-class family?
Moments in my life that might make me aware of the privileges I hold as part of a middle class family could include having access to good education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities. For example, being able to attend a good university or having the opportunity to participate in sports and hobbies without worrying about the cost can highlight the advantages I have. These experiences can make me realize that not everyone has the same opportunities and resources which is a significant aspect of my middle class privilege.
How can understanding disability change our views on interdependence?
Understanding disability can change our views on interdependence by showing us that everyone relies on others at different times in their lives. It highlights the importance of community support and teamwork making us realize that needing help is a normal part of being human. This way of thinking can help us be more understanding and motivate us to create more welcoming and helpful places for everyone.
How does patriarchal dominance shape the narratives around historical events and figures?
Patriarchal dominance shapes the narratives around historical events and figures by often highlighting the achievements and perspectives of men while minimizing or ignoring the contributions of women. This can lead to a biased understanding of history where mens actions and viewpoints are seen as more important or central. Therefore, the stories of women and their roles in history are often overlooked or forgotten affecting how we learn and understand the past.
What are some characteristics of a healthier more inclusive form of masculinity?
To improve how we understand masculinity researchers need to rethink the idea that masculinity is just about what men or boys do. As Pascoe says, "This definition conflates masculinity with the actions of those who have male bodies. Defining masculinity as 'what men do' reifies biologized categories of male and female that are problematic and not necessarily discrete categories to begin with"(Pascoe 9). A healthier more inclusive masculinity means being open about emotions, showing empathy, valuing relationships, embracing vulnerability, seeking help, supporting equality, respecting boundaries, and rejecting harmful stereotypes. This allows men to be themselves without pressure.
What role does economic disparity play in reinforcing white and male privilege?
Economic disparity reinforces white and male privilege by making it easier for white men to access better education, job opportunities, and resources. This creates a cycle where they can continue to get wealth and power while people of color and women often face more barriers and have fewer opportunities to advance. This gap in money and opportunities keeps the advantages for some people in place and makes it harder for disadvantaged groups to be equal.
How has your journey of self discovery influenced your views on feminist issues and social justice?
My journey of self discovery has likely deepened my understanding of feminist issues and social justice by highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion. Thinking about my own experiences and how ableism and body politics affect women with disabilities has made me more aware of the need for overlapping issues in these movements.
What are some misconceptions about the abilities and needs of women with disabilities?
Some misconceptions about the abilities and needs of women with disabilities include thinking they are completely dependent and unable to contribute meaningfully to society. People might also wrongly assume that their needs are the same as those of men with disabilities ignoring the unique challenges they face. Also, there's often a belief that they don't desire or need romantic relationships, family life, or careers, which isn't true. These misconceptions can lead to unfair treatment and lack of proper support.