When you say the downfall of men, sorry did you mean from your explanation that women are the downfall of men's. I will say yes and no, because it all depends on the subject matter that is on hands and also how everyone understand and relate it, some part of the countries and also in olden days, which you have mentioned earlier, women are less given priority than men, yes because they feels women's can't make things up for themselves without the assistance of men's. Also when it comes to an employment part in a given institution or organisation women always comes first, I don't know why but I think, it is because of their personality and attraction that the lady might have showcase to win the heart of the principle head or the recruitment officer in the organisation. But for me it is best to consider the both side, and give an adequate fair hearing to the parties, which they should be gender equality, if not someone might end up bringing the downfall of is company or another person company if he only work with one part of gender and their are means for the both gender. Which I believe there are certain rules and regulations guiding every institution and should be respected and follow for the betterment of the company.
Also when you talk about women's demanding from men when they still earn more than the man,  in the case of couples men are always the master of the house and it is their duty to stand for themself and also shelter for is wife and kids if their are any, and adhering to your responsibility as the master of the house, it will earn you more respect from your family, so I don't think the man has any business about is wife's property, if he needs help he can ask for it or otherwise maintain his status core and move on with is life but when the wife really love and care for is wellbeing she will assist him without waiting for him to ask.