Why patriarchy is bad for men

By Aditi Paranjpe


While one might argue that patriarchy is set up in a way that it benefits 'men,' the toxicity that comes around the concept brings out the gravity of its harmful nature. The more so-called power and privilege is given to men, the more it harms them more than benefiting them. It creates a false sense of reality and self which becomes difficult for men to address since the influence of patriarchal norms is so strong. Equality and male well-being have been directly related based on factors like better mental health, communication, introspection, compassion, and thus the overall betterment that follows, not just for men.

This belief that men have the upper hand, the superiority also makes it difficult for them to open up and deal with certain issues, for example, heinous crimes like rape and harassment. Coping becomes difficult since these crimes are largely associated with women.

Even in terms of companionships and relationships, the most basic idea we all understand to maintain good relations is that of communication. When open understanding and equality is present, more transparent and safer relationships bloom. Even if one tries to bring in these changes, to completely get rid of this sense is extremely difficult. And this is what carries forward from generation to generation.

Actions speak louder than words. Even if one believes against patriarchy, in practicality, these expectations and notions invariably do pop up, at least in a country like India.

In an effort to compete with the standards that patriarchy has embedded, there is more scope for insecurity, instability, and a much higher possibility of the emergence of other similar issues. The meaning of ‘masculinity,' which ideally should be based on the biological characteristics of men as part of the human race, is becoming more rigid by the day according to societal standards. It is this rigidity that makes the entire concept toxic. Where lies the point when something like patriarchy, which supposedly gives men authority, the power, the ultimate superiority, is harming them in the bigger picture?