•The relationship between men and women has almost always been unequal and oppressive.
–The extent of inequality and oppressiveness has varied greatly.
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•All known societies have been patriarchal.
–Patriarchy is a system in which males dominate females.
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•All major social institutions have been characterized by male dominance:
–Economy
–Political system
–Family
–Religion.
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•Women have usually accepted their subordination to men.
–They have been socialized to believe ideologies that justify male domination.