my thoughts might be all over the place hehe
that one time i was okay with patriarchy
I often encounter discussions about gender inequality in digital forums/websites lately. One of the main topics was whether it is good to stay with patriarchy or not. Some are pro-patriarchy—males assume as head figures of a social unit holding higher power and authority in any aspect than females—while some fight to abolish this hierarchy. And it is quite interesting in Philippine context because it is obvious that males are seen as more capable than females.
My initial thought as a female is that it was right to fight against the system because there is an obviously stark difference in the imagery and treatment of women compared to men. In work setting for instance, women are paid less than men (reasons for this deserves a separate topic though).
But in my train of thoughts, if this system is abolished, what do we replace it with? Because in order for society to work, its moving parts must assume and do their roles. There must be a system in place. A must do this, B must do that, etc. I can't say it should be matriarchal because it might just oppress the opposite gender all over again. And I couldn't agree with the notion of having no role system.
Since women are natural at taking care of other people and men are more logical and physically strong, I concluded that patriarchy might have to stay as the system of assigning or assuming roles but there must be a change in treatment of women. Let the men take the responsibility of providing and let women tend to the children but they must be compensated in some form may it be monetary or social service.
A few months past however, I realized that this system suppresses natural talents and honed skills. If only men are seen as more talented and skilled, then where do women with equal potential go? For instance, there are many intelligent female researchers like Katherine Johnson from America and medical pioneers such as the late Dr. Fe Del Mundo. It is a waste of potential if women stayed sheltered with children and house chores alone. Talent and skills do not choose a gender after all. It can occur in many individuals—men or women.
Therefore I think that there should be a shift on viewing men and women at least potential-wise for now. Look at individuals based on their weaknesses, strengths, and character. We might live in a not-so-restrictive time already but there is still much progress to catch in terms of gender equality in the Philippines. I myself will completely abandon patriarchal lens and move forward with gender-equal perspective.