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Women Leadership in Patriarchy Society
Growing up in Indonesia, a country rich in culture yet deeply rooted in its patriarchal traditions, I’ve witnessed both the strides and the struggles women face in achieving leadership positions, especially in tech. Indonesia has modernized in many ways, and I see companies embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Yet, the pervasive influence of patriarchy still looms, creating barriers that feel unbreakable at times.
The Emotion vs. Logic Debate
One argument I often hear in patriarchal settings is that,
women can’t lead because they’re “too emotional,” while men lead with “logic and reason.”
This myth has been perpetuated for generations, shaping how society views women in leadership. It suggests that emotions are a weakness and that logic is exclusive to men.
But let’s break this down. Emotions are not a weakness; they are a strength. Emotional intelligence, which includes empathy, self-awareness, and communication skills, is a critical component of effective leadership. Research shows that leaders who can connect with their teams on an emotional level inspire trust, foster collaboration, and drive innovation. By this measure, women are often uniquely equipped for leadership.