#MeToo, Now What? Season 1 Episode 5 Is Patriarchy on Its Way Out?

#MeToo, Now What? is a documentary series that delves into the aftermath of the #MeToo movement and explores the ways in which we can create a safer and more equitable society. In season 1, episode 5 titled "Is Patriarchy on Its Way Out?", host Zainab Salbi tackles the complex question of whether patriarchy—the social system in which men hold primary power over women— is slowly on the decline.

The episode opens with Salbi discussing the concept of patriarchy with renowned feminist scholar bell hooks. Hooks argues that patriarchy is still very much alive and well, pointing to the fact that women still make up the majority of low-wage workers and are disproportionately affected by issues like poverty and domestic violence. She believes that true gender equality can only be achieved by uprooting the patriarchal system and creating a more just society.

Next, Salbi sits down with Gloria Steinem, a feminist icon who has been at the forefront of women's rights activism for over half a century. Steinem describes the ways in which patriarchy is ingrained in our culture, from the way we raise our children to the media we consume. Despite this, she remains hopeful that progress can be made, pointing to the fact that women's rights issues have become a more mainstream topic in recent years.

The episode also features interviews with a variety of other experts and activists, including musician Ani DiFranco, who discusses the ways in which the music industry perpetuates patriarchal norms, and writer Rebecca Solnit, who argues that the #MeToo movement has brought issues of gender equality to the forefront of public discourse.

Throughout the episode, Salbi poses the question to a variety of people from different walks of life: is patriarchy on its way out? While there is no easy answer, the episode highlights the many ways in which people are fighting against patriarchal norms and working towards a more just society. From the women's marches that have taken place around the world to the growing number of women running for political office, there are signs that progress is being made.

Ultimately, "Is Patriarchy on Its Way Out?" is a thought-provoking exploration of a complex and deeply entrenched issue. While there is much work to be done, the episode provides hope that by continuing to have these conversations and push for change, we can create a world in which gender equality is truly a reality.