Patri-whaaat?

Patriarchy is a system of domination entailing the systemic gendered organization of all areas of social life such that more social resources, power, and value accrue to men. Patriarchy is a system of entitlement which rewards behavior that is anti-woman, anti-queer, anti-body, anti-nature, and anti-color. It interacts with other forms of oppression and affects people differently based on their social locations.

Patriarchal values are embodied in interpersonal relationships and everyday life. Anyone, whether they occupy a socially subordinated category or not, can gain degrees of power and privilege by advocating patriarchal values. There is no one or singular form of patriarchy. It manifests itself differently in different social and historical contexts.

Resources

Essays

• “Against Patriarchy: Tools for Men to Further Feminist Revolution” by Chris Crass
• “Understanding Patriarchy” by bell hooks
• “Shut the Fuck Up, or How to Act Better in Meetings“

zines for printing

• Said the Pot to the Kettle: Feminist Theory for Anarchist Men (screen)
• Learning Good Consent
• Gender Roles in Conversation
• Men Can Stop Rape

For a basic introduction to where we are coming from as anarchists/radicals, check out the zine “Life Without Law: An Introduction To Anarchist Politics.”

For additional reading ideas, feel free to browse our list of past readings.