Gender operates on three interconnected levels: individual, interactional, and institutional. At the individual level, we internalize societal expectations about masculinity and femininity, shaping our identities and behaviors. On the interactional level, gender influences our daily interactions, from how we communicate to the power dynamics we navigate. Finally, at the institutional level, gender is embedded in structures like the family, education, and the workplace, perpetuating inequalities.

This concept emphasizes that gender does not exist in isolation. Instead, it intersects with other social categories like race, class, and sexuality, creating unique experiences of privilege and oppression. Wharton highlights how a nuanced understanding of intersectionality is crucial to fully grasp the complexities of gender inequality.

Rejecting static definitions, Wharton demonstrates that gender is not fixed but constantly evolving. She explores how social movements, technological advancements, and changing cultural norms all contribute to shifting understandings of what it means to be a man or a woman. This dynamic perspective encourages readers to critically analyze the ever-changing landscape of gender relations.