Myths of Male Dominance

This classic anthropological study debunks the many myths behind the idea of “natural” male superiority. Drawing on extensive ethnographic research across cultures, Leacock demonstrates that claims of inherent male dominance and female subordination are based on carefully constructed falsehoods with no historical, factual basis.

Instead, Leacock argues for the material roots of women’s oppression as part of a historic process within the development of human societies. She documents numerous historical examples of egalitarian gender relations, and shows that, far from simply accepting their lot, women across cultures challenged attempts to denigrate and isolate their labor and roles in society. Finally, Leacock’s analysis proves that just as women’s subjugation has not always existed as a facet of human relations, it can also be overcome.