The Misconception of the Benefits of Male Domination and Its Creep Back

The Misconception of the Benefits of Male Domination and Its Creep Back

Introduction: The Return of Male Domination

Male dominance isn’t a new concept, but its resurgence in certain social and political movements reveals a belief among some men that reclaiming power is both logical and necessary. From economic insecurity to changing gender roles, many see a return to patriarchal systems as a solution to perceived instability. But what might feel like a rational response comes at a societal cost that impacts everyone.

Why Reclaiming Power Feels Logical

For some men, reclaiming traditional roles is rooted in the belief that male leadership creates order and stability. This perspective often arises in times of societal change, where shifting norms feel threatening to established power structures. Key reasons include:

• Economic Uncertainty: Economic shifts often hit men in traditionally male-dominated industries harder, leading to a desire to reassert dominance as a coping mechanism.
• Changing Gender Roles: As women achieve more in education and the workforce, some men feel displaced, struggling to find their identity outside of breadwinner roles.
• Cultural Nostalgia: The "good old days" are often idealized, ignoring the systemic inequalities that existed during those times.

The Cost of Male Domination

While reclaiming power might seem like a way to restore stability, the cost is steep—for both men and women. Patriarchal systems not only perpetuate gender inequality but also stifle societal growth:

• Economic Stagnation: Gender equality has been shown to boost economic productivity, while male-dominated systems often limit contributions from half the population.
• Mental Health Struggles: Toxic masculinity discourages men from seeking help, contributing to higher rates of suicide and substance abuse.
• Perpetuation of Violence: Male dominance often reinforces systems of control and abuse, perpetuating cycles of domestic and societal violence.

The Role of Otherism

At the heart of this issue is "otherism"—the belief that someone else’s struggles don’t matter or are inherently separate from one’s own. For men clinging to power, this manifests as a dismissal of women’s rights and equality. By seeing women’s progress as a threat rather than an opportunity, they reinforce divisions that ultimately harm everyone.

Otherism isn’t limited to gender; it applies to race, class, and other divides. Breaking this illusion requires acknowledging that progress for one group benefits society as a whole.

Building a Better Future

True stability doesn’t come from reclaiming outdated power structures. It comes from creating systems of equality and collaboration, where everyone—regardless of gender—has the opportunity to thrive. This requires dismantling patriarchal norms, promoting empathy, and embracing the idea that solidarity, not dominance, leads to progress.

Conclusion: The Illusion of Stability

Reclaiming male domination might feel logical to some, but it’s an illusion of stability that comes at too high a cost. By rejecting otherism and working toward inclusive systems, we can build a society that values progress over power and unity over division. The question isn’t who should hold the reins of power—it’s how we create a world where power is shared.