PATRIARCHY AND WOMEN'S AUTONOMY: EXAMINING ITS IMPACT ON RIGHTS.

The article examines how patriarchal structures have historically subjugated women and limited their autonomy across societal spheres. It also explores the systemic impact of patriarchal ideology, which treats women as second-class citizens and dismisses them as “Others,” so denying them agency and personhood by focusing on the origins of male supremacy in various institutional contexts, drawing inspiration from feminist thinkers (e.g., Simone de Beauvoir, Kate Millett, and Judith Butler). It provides a means to see how patriarchal systems undermine women's economic independence, political involvement, and reproductive autonomy. It also explores historical erasure and rigid gender norms that continue to marginalize women. In addition, the article shows how patriarchy uses gendered expectations to rationalize the gender gap, which in turn restricts women's chances for education, leadership positions, and financial success. Also covered are the effects that are still felt today, like the continued gender pay gap and limitations on reproductive rights. Finally, the article stresses the significance of grassroots movements and legislative reforms in dismantling systemic gender disparities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]