Matriliny is formed with regard to the rules of inheritance. In matrilineal societies pass on property from mother to daughter. Matriarchy on the other hand is formed with regard to the exercise of authority and domination. A matriarchal family structure is where the women exercise authority and dominance. Matriarchy is a theoretical rather than an empirical concept. There is no historical or anthropological evidence of matriarchy – i.e., societies where women exercise dominance. However, there do exist matrilineal societies, i.e., societies where women inherit property from their mothers but do not exercise control over it, nor are they the decision makers in public affairs.