How does the concept of patriarchy contribute to economic inequality among genders in a feminist context?

Patriarchy is a social system where men hold more power and authority than women, which can lead to economic inequality between genders. In a patriarchal society, men often have better access to high-paying jobs and leadership positions, while women may be limited to lower-paying roles or unpaid work, like caregiving. This unequal access to opportunities means that women can earn less over their lifetimes, making it harder for them to achieve financial independence. For example, if a woman takes time off work to raise children, she may miss out on promotions and salary increases, further widening the economic gap. Overall, patriarchy reinforces stereotypes and barriers that keep women from reaching their full economic potential.