I'd argue the inverse, actually. Indeed, for much of human history we have been hunter-gathers, but the idea that men were hunting solo while the women gathered in groups is inaccurate. Hunting large game is a complicated matter and requires intense team work - a lone man is not going to take down a mammoth (not to mention hauling the carcass back to camp). Hunting required coordination, and the better your coordination, the better your rewards. Gathering, while it was probably done in groups, only requires one set of hands. After all, five people can't all pick from the same bush.

I think RJ was pretty clear on the whole linking matter. The ability of female channelers to link was an intended equalizer.