Masculinity Research Paper

Words: 1202
Pages: 5

Throughout recorded history, nothing has been able to hamper the growth and development of the most dominant reproductive life form on this planet (mankind) other than…well mankind itself. In every era, mankind has created it’s own notions of what is right and wrong which according to a group of “enlightened” minds would inevitably lead to the cliché Disney special happily ever after ending. However, the actual results of these ideals were far from the prophesized perfect fairy tale ending and in fact did more harm than good. Among these ideals, a prominent one was that of masculinity. Also referred to as manhood, boyhood, or manliness, masculinity is the set of attributes, behaviors or rules relating to men. This concept gradually evolved …show more content…
Well, masculinity is basically a plethora of rules and regulations that every ideal man should abide by in order to become a fully functional member of society. Now these attributes range from physical strength (Superman) to financial success (Bill Gates) to sexual prowess (Charlie Sheen). However, despite everyone’s desire to embody all of these amazing qualities, the harsh reality is that only a minute percentage of the masculine population actually can acclaim to do so. Regardless of what society says of men, the actual picture is that most men not always being strong, brilliant or well-endowed are just simple average human beings’ trying to make the best of the hand fate has dealt them. Therein arises the first and foremost problem that this cult of masculinity poses; its lack of universality. Despite popular belief that these characteristics are actually what make up a perfect man the simple truth is that setting such high standards for men to prove their masculinity actually results in the major part of the male population failing to meet these standards. This in turn leads to a wide variety of “solutions” men come up with to cope with these demands which might not always be parallel to their best interests i.e. drugs, cosmetic surgeries …show more content…
This proves especially problematic due to the high unemployment rate and since a high percentage of working men possess average jobs which provide a moderate income and require time consuming labor. So, men are mostly engrossed in their work and after all their hard labor are only able to procure enough income to keep the family going. This is far from what society demands and issues such as unsatisfied wives and unhappy children arise. Even after working so hard when a man faces with disapproval one’s own family and social circle on a daily basis, it sometimes proves to be too much and tips him over the edge. The results can range from self-imposed unemployment to insanity and once again in some cases (growing every year) leading to death by