The Patriarchs

More about the book

In this essential book, award-winning science journalist Angela Saini explores the true roots of gendered oppression, revealing the complex history of how male domination became entrenched in societies worldwide. She argues that viewing gender inequality as an unchangeable aspect of human nature obscures its fragility and the ways it has been continuously reconstructed. Saini travels to some of the earliest human settlements, examines cutting-edge research in science and archaeology, and traces cultural and political histories across the Americas and Asia. Through this exploration, she challenges simplistic universal theories, demonstrating that the nature and longevity of patriarchy vary significantly by region. Despite ongoing resistance to sexism and exploitation, Saini highlights that even revolutionary movements for equality have often faced setbacks and failures. She concludes by questioning the roles we all play—women included—in perpetuating patriarchal structures and emphasizes the need to move beyond outdated narratives to fully understand the persistence of gendered oppression today.