With the American Psychological Association labeling conventional masculinity as “harmful” and publicly disdaining it, “masculinity” has become a pejorative term in certain circles. A third of Americans (36%) and one-third (31%), respectively, think the Democratic Party is “hostile” to masculine ideals, according to a recent Politico/Ipsos survey. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Missouri) has been outspoken, arguing that media portrayals of males in films like “Barbie” are divisive and harmful.
Former NCAA swimmer and current OutKick presenter Riley Gaines has seen this trend personally in the male-dominated world of athletics and claims that many contemporary men view masculinity as an “undesirable trait” due to their fear of social rejection. She thinks weak men have brought about these challenging times and hopes that attracting them would bring back the strong men society needs.
This transformation in culture is mirrored in the labor market and the economy. There has been a long-term trend in the U.S. economy of fewer men in “prime working age” (25-54) actively participating in the labor force, as shown by data from the U.S.
Department of Labor in recent years. Hawley said the federal government’s neglect of manufacturing and construction employment contributed.
Men’s suicide rates, imprisonment rates, and levels of hopelessness have all risen as the male labor force has shrunk. Finding dads, spouses, and ideal companions has become more difficult for women because of the absence of fathers and male role models.
The media and entertainment industry are on a crusade to eradicate traditional notions of being male and female. Femininity is related to the unconscious mind and its qualities like creativity, nurturing, and emotional drive, whereas masculinity is often taught in classes on goal setting and business. Success and fulfillment in life need the use of both brain hemispheres.
However, today’s culture of technology, materialism, and screen time has led males to become lazy and apathetic. The leftist worldview emphasizes passivity and the elimination of gender roles. Hawley argues that genuine strength lies in providing for others and taking on duty, and he urges men to embrace responsibility and fight back against lethargy and complacency.
