How Male-Dominated Networks Lock Women Out
Men - in patriarchal societies - are uniquely encouraged to socialise, explore and provide for their families. They come to dominate economic and political networks, while simultaneously developing social skills and connections.
Fraternities are self-perpetuating. If men typically socialise and exchange favours with other men, they may feel more comfortable and maintain sexist stereotypes. Male-bonding consolidates trust and respect.
A hundred years ago, America and Europe were precisely the same. Men benefitted from fraternal capital, while locking women out.
Women remain triply disadvantaged in low and middle-income countries where
Doing business and dealing with government requires social connections;
Men dominate these networks;
The presence of unrelated men makes women feel uncomfortable, irreligious, or hurts their reputations.
