I think that masculinity is linked to violence because the media has made it this way. In the film Tough Guise, Jackson Katz showed several different examples of how violence is linked to masculinity. It has changed alot over the last 50 years. The size of their bodies, like in Batman, and Pro Wrestling. The size of the guns and the toy figures has grown considerably from 50 years ago.
The media has linked masculinity to physical strength, the threat of violence, and the ability to scare people. The fighting in sports, and that we gain respect by disrespecting another person. Pro Wrestling shows the celebration f dominance, the projection of power and links being a man to being abusive and violent.
We need to teach our children that being masculine is not all about the fighting and dominance. It's about vulnerability as well, we need to teach them that it's okay to show people how they feel. If you listen to some of the old "soul music" like Marvin Gaye, Al Greene, and the Temptations, they all show signs of their vulnerablility in their music. There are also movies out there that show this as well.
I like your comments about how we need to teach our children that toughness is not all about being dominant. I think that the greatest measure of toughness is when someone can walk away from a situation without using violence.
ReplyDeleteThe examples you provide are all men of color. Is it easier for them to show a vulnerable side than it is for white men?
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