The power of patriarchy has been to make maleness feared and to make men feel that it is better to be feared that to be loved. Whether they can confess this or not, men know that just is not true.

Summary

This quote suggests that patriarchy has wielded its power by perpetuating fear surrounding masculine qualities and traits. It claims that men have been made to believe that it is preferable for others to fear them rather than to be loved by them. However, the quote argues that deep down, men are aware that this notion is untrue. It implies that men desire genuine connection, understanding, and love rather than enforcing fear through patriarchal dynamics.

Topics