matriarch/matriarchy

because patriarchy is seen as the norm, a matriarchy tends to be viewed with alarm and disapproval; it doesn't seem "natural." In fact, the opposite of a patriarchy is not a matriarchy. Both matriarchies and patriarchies involve an imbalance of power between the sexes and are called dominator societies by Riane Eisler (The Chalice and the Blade and The Power of Partnership). The true opposite of a matriarchy or a patriarchy is a partnership society. Until we reach the point where neither sex needs to dominate the other, use "matriarchy/patriarchy" terms cautiously. The word "matricentric" puts the mother at the center of the family or system without the hierarchical overtones of "matriarchal." Sex-neutral alternatives for "matriarch" include ancestor/family elder, head of the family, family head. See also patriarchy.