Is Patriarchy Inevitable: Rethinking the Freudian Myth

Abstract

The Oedipal myth favored in Freud’s theorizing asserts a developmental outcome that affirms male/female difference and patriarchal authority. Despite much evidence to the contrary, these assumptions persist. This paper examines clinical, anthropological, and scientific evidence that helps us better understand gender and the triangular phase of development.

Keywords:

• Oedipus
• desire
• gender identity
• male development