The Origins of Men's Dominance: A Deep Dive into Patriarchy

Scholars challenge the traditional caveman narrative that oversimplified gender roles in ancient societies. Research indicates that early hunter-gatherer cultures had more egalitarian structures, with decision-making being collective and women playing crucial roles as providers of food through plant gathering. The rise of settled agricultural societies, around 10,000 years ago, led to the development of male dominance, as men seized power through specialized roles and excluded women from public spaces. Scholars argue that men's desire for power, control over women's bodies, and the need to pass down property fueled the emergence of patriarchy. However, it is important to note that gender differences and the origins of patriarchy are complex topics influenced by both cultural and biological factors.