Final answer:
Western society is primarily considered patriarchal by scholars, characterized by male-dominated structures both in the family and broader society. Despite historical examples of matrilineal societies, true matriarchal control is not evident in current world cultures.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is generally agreed among scholars that the structure of Western society is primarily patriarchal. This is evidenced by historical perspectives and anthropological studies that suggest a transition from early matriarchal societies to those dominated by patriarchal structures. Influential scholars like Friedrich Engels and Marija Gimbutas have discussed the evolution of social structures from matrilineal to patrilineal systems, where albeit even in matrilineal settings, authority often rests with senior men.
While some societies observed matrilineal descent, where children belong to their mother's kin group, this did not equate to a matriarchal society where women exert broad societal control. The prevalence of patriarchy can be attributed to various factors, including the marginalization of women due to responsibilities of pregnancy and childcare, and perhaps men’s reactions to women's reproductive powers. Gender roles and ideology were further compounded through practices and legal norms that upheld male leadership in both private and public spheres.
Reforms throughout history, such as those in 19th century India, aimed to dismantle patriarchal customs and promote gender equality, but patriarchal values persist. Although concepts of matriarchy were revisited by feminist scholars in the 20th century, patriarchy remains a dominant social structure in contemporary Western society and cultures worldwide.