Can Gender-Equal Societies Survive? A Speculative Essay

Abstract

Using demographic data drawn primarily from European North African and Middle Eastern countries this paper investigates whether gender-equal societies will survive in competition with patriarchal societies since statistical evidence demonstrates a strong correlation between gender equality and a below-replacement birth rate. Looking at the demographic implications of patriarchalism and gender equality it is noted that in strongly patriarchal societies fertility rates remain high even if women enjoy a high level of education. This situation demonstrates male dominance which requires women to put their roles of wives and mothers above the demands of rival occupations. Conversely in countries where patriarchal pressure is less intense fertility is somewhat lower. In Europe North America and Australia the future of gender equality as a way of life is threatened. This is because the birth rate is below replacement level and the population level is either falling or being maintained only by immigration from the more fertile patriarchal countries. Migrants bring much of their culture with them including their commitment to patriarchalism and a high birth rate.