It should be equal. However, it never truly is imho. Every relationship is different.. some work better with the woman wearing the pants and vice versa.
I did have an interesting discussion with my wife about this not too long ago. I foolishly posed the question: “If women want to be treated equally, than why should we open doors for them and worry if the toilet seat is in the correct position?” It went on from there for several minutes until we concluded that there never really is an equality. Women are simply different from men. Men are simply different from women. Each have their roles to play in a relationship.
IMO, men (generally speaking) are best equipped to be protectors and providers…biologically and otherwise. They should work, hunt, fight off the bad guys, be the more stern of the two parents, stand up for their wives and their family and be the leader. (Don’t confuse leader with “in charge”. Good leaders know when to be followers as well)
IMO, women (generally speaking) are best equipped to be the nurturer, the support element, the comforter, the voice of reason when the man isn’t thinking straight… they are an equal partner in the relationship yet have their own specific role to play.
Now, of course, I’m bound to have the liberals, the uber-progressives, and the feminists after me about this opinion but.. so be it.. that’s my opinion.. take it or leave it.