Introduction
The practice of assigning a child solely the father’s family name is a deeply ingrained tradition in many cultures around the world. However, this tradition has garnered attention due to its implications regarding gender equality, identity, and the biological understanding of genetics. This articlepursues the scientific accuracy, cultural context, and feminist implications of the practice of taking only the father’s family name.

Scientific Inaccuracy of Paternal Gene Inheritance
Contrary to the historical assumption that only the father’s genes influence a child’s biology, modern science paints a more complex picture. While it’s true that the Y chromosome is inherited from the father and determines the male sex, it is oversimplified to claim that the father’s genes alone shape the child’s biology. The reproduction process involves the fusion of genetic material from both parents, including mitochondrial DNA from the mother. Thus, the child’s biology results from both parents’ contributions rather than being exclusively determined by the father’s genes.

Matrilineal to Patrilineal: Tradition in Light of Genetic Realities
The practice of giving a child only the father’s last name stems from historical and cultural traditions that have often overlooked the true complexity of human genetics and reproduction. Here are some key points that highlight the scientific inaccuracies of attributing a child’s biology solely to the father’s side:

1. Genetic Contributions from Both Parents: While the father does contribute genetic material through the sperm, it’s essential to recognise that reproduction involves the fusion of genetic material from both parents. The mother provides an egg containing her genetic information, including mitochondrial DNA, which plays a significant role in cellular energy production. Ignoring the mother’s genetic contribution oversimplifies the complex interplay of genes from both parents that shape a child’s biology.

2. Chromosomal Inheritance: A child inherits 23 chromosomes from the mother and 23 from the father for 46 chromosomes. These chromosomes carry a wealth of genetic information influencing traits, physical characteristics, and health outcomes. It is inaccurate to attribute these genetic factors solely to the father’s side.

3. Mitochondrial DNA: Mitochondria are cellular organelles responsible for energy production. Mitochondrial DNA is exclusively inherited from the mother, as the mitochondria in the sperm are generally discarded during fertilisation. This means that a child’s mitochondrial DNA, which plays a crucial role in cellular function, comes exclusively from the mother.

4. Complex Genetic Interactions: Genes interact with each other and the environment in complex ways, contributing to various traits and characteristics. Genetic expression is influenced by many factors beyond simple inheritance, including epigenetic modifications and interactions between genes from both parents.

5. Identity and Genetic Heritage: A child’s identity and genetic heritage are shaped by contributions from both parents. Disregarding the mother’s side in naming practices neglects an essential part of the child’s genetic makeup and familial heritage.
In light of these scientific inaccuracies, it becomes evident that attributing a child’s biology solely to the father’s last name is a misrepresentation of the complex genetic realities of human reproduction. Acknowledging maternal and paternal genetic contributions is scientifically accurate and contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of individual identity and heritage.
As societies evolve and progress, it’s important to consider these scientific insights when discussing naming traditions and to move towards practices that reflect the true complexity of human biology and genetics.

Cultural Context and Symbolism
Passing down only the father’s family name has deep cultural roots that often tie into notions of lineage, inheritance, and societal structure. Historically, family names signify social status, inheritance rights, and belonging to a particular clan or lineage. In many cultures, the paternal family name was seen as a symbol of continuity, with the father’s lineage taking precedence. However, as societies evolve and gender roles shift, many are reevaluating the significance of this tradition.
Feminist Critique and Gender Equality
The feminist perspective on taking only the father’s family name is multifaceted. This tradition has been criticised for perpetuating patriarchal norms by symbolising the subordination of women within marriage and family structures. By assigning only the father’s name to the child, the mother’s lineage and identity are often marginalised, reinforcing that women are mere extensions of male family lines. This unequal distribution of naming rights reflects broader gender inequalities within societies.

Rejecting the Patriarchal Norm
Choosing not to adopt the husband’s last name or giving children a hyphenated surname challenges the patriarchal norm and underscores women’s agency in defining their identities. This act symbolises a rejection of traditional gender roles and emphasises the importance of both maternal and paternal lineages. Embracing alternatives, such as both partners retaining their original surnames or creating a new family name, allows for greater autonomy and reflects the evolving dynamics of modern relationships.

Conclusion
The practice of assigning only the father’s family name to a child carries complex implications that intersect with science, culture, and feminism. While historical traditions have perpetuated the notion that a child’s biology and identity are exclusively tied to the father’s side, modern science contradicts this oversimplification. Furthermore, as societies evolve and gender norms shift, the practice’s symbolic weight comes under scrutiny from feminist perspectives, as it reinforces patriarchal norms and inequalities. As we continue to challenge and reshape traditional conventions, the choice of family name becomes not just a linguistic decision but a statement of identity, equality, and autonomy.

Nahid Aktar : St Petersburg, Russia