**TL; DR - In a society where men dominate the possession of power, it is undeniable that we live in a patriarchal system of inequality. Issues of gender, race and class are commonplace in discussions around the patriarchy, and consequently can’t be ignored.** • When looking back at Britain’s political history, it is immediately apparent that men have held the power. This is clear from the very simple fact that this country has only ever seen two [female Prime Ministers](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RAWk1Tx2qa8). Not only is this evident of the _parliamentary gendered imbalance_ that exists, but also demonstrates just how reluctant we are to elect women to positions of political authority. • The [gender pay gap](https://ig.ft.com/gender-pay-gap-UK/) exists. There is no denying the fact that financially, women earn less than their male counterparts for doing the same job. Whilst the gap is closing in a lot of sectors, its existence promotes the notion that women are not as good as men, and they are therefore not afforded the same opportunities. • Culturally, women are told that they are subordinate to men. Our society continues to emphasise the importance and the value of [marriage](https://theswaddle.com/marriage-is-an-inherently-unfeminist-institution/) by teaching young girls and women that this is what we must strive for. From the tradition of fathers giving away their daughters, to the expectation for women to dress a certain way, _the institution of marriage_ is structured in such a way that men remain powerful and dominant. We are told that we show too much emotion and therefore must be weak. Until this changes and until women achieve equality, we will always live in the patriarchy.

**What is the patriarchy and does it affect everyone?** • A patriarchy is a social system structured around male power and dominance (which subsequently suppresses women and non-binary people). • Many argue that the patriarchy pervades [every society in the modern world](https://theowp.org/reports/global-patriarchy-women-of-the-world/) and its past. Historically, men have occupied most positions of influence, such as political leaders, scientists, artists, writers, and scholars – men have shaped the way we think, whilst women have mostly been [excluded from this narrative](https://www.forbes.com/sites/kathycaprino/2018/01/25/renowned-therapist-explains-the-crushing-effects-of-patriarchy-on-men-and-women-today/?sh=62c0d8b82161). • Patriarchal ideas are thought to affect both [men and women](https://www.bustle.com/articles/124983-6-ways-the-patriarchy-is-harmful-to-men-because-feminism-isnt-just-for-women) negatively. Because of societal bias, women face more discrimination in their careers, leadership positions, healthcare, family dynamics, and sexual relationships. In turn, many men feel compelled to live up to certain standards of masculinity which can be harmful to wellbeing and mental health. This is often called [toxic masculinity](https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-toxic-masculinity-5075107). • Some argue that [a singular Patriarchy does not exist](https://patrickjuli.us/2020/06/22/the-patriarchy-is-not-a-thing/), as many patriarchal societies conflict with each other. They may believe that these patriarchal societies stem from different causes and principles, and enact their power over women in different ways and to different degrees. • Others argue that [the patriarchy no longer exists](https://www.stylist.co.uk/people/boris-johnson-says-we-dont-live-in-a-patriachy-on-international-womens-day/365166) because in many countries women have achieved equal rights to men and men do not have complete dominance.