In this enlightening podcast episode, Robert Evans and Miles Gray explore the complex and often troubling history surrounding masculinity in America, highlighting the rise of what they refer to as "masculinity grifters". This two-part series dives deep into the societal constructs shaping male identity and the cyclical crises that have prompted the emergence of various male influencers—or "manfluencers"—who capitalize on men's insecurities.
Understanding the Crisis of Masculinity
Recurrent Myths of a Masculinity Crisis
- The fear over a so-called crisis in masculinity has recurred approximately every thirty years in American society, often fueled by media outlets like The Atlantic and The New York Times.
- Each cycle seems to produce individuals eager to capitalize on male vulnerability, turning it into profit by promoting toxic versions of masculinity.
- The podcast hosts note that these crises are often spurred by societal changes, including shifts in gender roles and economic conditions.
The Role of Media and Male Influencers
- Evans identifies a notable pattern: every time masculinity appears to be under threat, a group of grifters emerges, peddling courses, products, and ideologies that promise to restore men's lost sense of manhood.
- These influencers often attract men seeking validation and guidance through intense and often demeaning workshops that use psychological and physical challenges as a means to assert dominance and masculinity.
The Evolution of Masculinity in America
Historical Context
- The historical narrative traces back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where initial panic about masculinity arose amidst changing gender roles and increased female participation in the public sphere.
- The conversation touches on the cult of the self-made man and American ideals of masculinity shaped by various societal pressures and cultural narratives.
- Notable figures from this period, like Bernard McFadden and Teddy Roosevelt, exemplified the hyper-masculine ideals that influenced societal expectations of men.
Modern Masculinity and Its Discontents
- Today's insecurities among men often manifest as financial and relational difficulties, exacerbated by economic downturns, stagnant wages, and a competitive job market.
- The hosts discuss loneliness and social isolation contributing to a sense of despair among many young men, culminating in their susceptibility to the messages propagated by manfluencers.
The Influence of Online Communities
Gamergate and Its Aftermath
- A significant point in the discussion is the impact of online communities, particularly during events like Gamergate, which exposed a fissure where misogyny and male insecurity coalesce.
- This incident indicated a larger trend where disillusioned young men could easily be mobilized into radical groups under the guise of protecting their male identities.
- The resulting phenomena highlighted how internet culture, gaming, and male-oriented spaces can foster or exacerbate toxic masculinity.
Practical Takeaways and Insights
Engaging with Masculine Issues
- Awareness: Understanding the historical context of masculinity can aid in recognizing current trends and addressing the underlying issues men face today.
- Support Systems: Emphasizing the importance of community and robust support systems can mitigate feelings of inadequacy and provide healthier outlets for male emotion.
- Rejecting Stereotypes: Encouraging men to redefine what masculinity means to them, beyond societal pressures and historical narratives, promotes healthier identities and behaviors.
Recommendations for Future Discussions
- The hosts encourage ongoing dialogue around masculinity, aiming to dismantle harmful stereotypes and embracing a more inclusive view that allows for varied expressions of masculinity.
In conclusion, this episode of "Behind the Bastards" opens a crucial conversation about the historical and ongoing crises in masculinity. By dissecting how societal trends create fertile ground for grifters to exploit male insecurities, Robert and Miles provide listeners with both context and a call to action for embracing healthier, more empowering definitions of masculinity.