PATRIARCHY
A patriarchy is a form of social organisation in which the father is the head of the family, group or ruling body and inheritance from one generation to the next is based upon the male line of descent. The origins of patriarchy are difficult to trace and likely pre-date historic times. Patriarchal values have dominated the rise of Western Civilization and most of the top decision-making positions in society are still occupied by males. This long-standing tradition has been criticised by those who seek a greater level of equality and fairness between the sexes.