Blog 2: Unmasking masculinity

Men in Western society are frequently under pressure to demonstrate their masculinity by their strength and power, which might lead them to use unnecessary violence. As demonstrated by documentaries like “Charlottesville: Race and Terror” and “Inside Incel,” this tendency for extreme behaviour is a result of a combination of factors including traditional masculinity and the media’s tendency to romanticise violence. Examining these videos and perspectives, such as Michael Kimmel’s “Masculinity as Homophobia,” helps us understand why men are more likely to engage in extreme forms of homophobia, sexism, and racism.

In “Charlottesville: Race and Terror,” some of Trump’s fans, who are often portrayed as representing traditional masculinity, were opposing the removal of a statue related to slavery. They were mostly white and felt they needed to use violence to defend their perceived white privilege or cultural heritage. Ignoring opposing views, they resorted to physical confrontation, which reflects Michael Kimmel’s idea in “Masculinity as Homophobia” that violence is seen as a sign of manhood. James Will Similarly, in “Inside Incel,” the documentary dives into the online world of ‘incels’, mainly men resentful towards women for not reciprocating romantic interest. Feeling entitled to female attention, they express misogyny and resort to violence. Influenced by toxic masculinity norms online, they believe extreme actions can help them regain their masculinity and control over women. These documentaries give us a glimpse into how traditional masculinity can lead to extreme behaviours. Throughout history, traditional masculinity has been linked to traits like dominance and aggression. Men often feel the need to conform to these norms to prove their masculinity. However, this can lead to harmful consequences, like violence and the perpetuation of discriminatory beliefs. Moreover, societal expectations play a big role in shaping masculine identities. In both documentaries, we see how societal norms influence the behaviours of the individuals portrayed. The pressure to conform to these norms, coupled with feelings of resentment and entitlement, can push people towards extreme behaviours as a way of asserting their masculinity.

The normalization of violence in the media poses a grave threat to societal values and behaviours. By romanticising violence, media platforms inadvertently attract individuals who find excitement in such content, potentially encouraging extreme behaviour. This is demonstrated in the documentary “Inside Incel,” where Toby, who feels rejected by women, uses a music video to display his violent and sexist views. Other people respond positively to the video. Being manly—but more toxically manly in front of the audience—was drawing attention to him. Furthermore, frequent exposure to violent imagery changed individuals to its consequences, blurring the line between right and wrong. Michael Kimmel’s observations highlight violence as a marker of masculinity, reinforcing harmful stereotypes and attitudes, particularly regarding gender dynamics. Research indicates that such exposure increases aggression, particularly among impressionable youth. Real-life incidents, like Alek Minissian’s revenge-seeking actions, underscore the tangible consequences of media-induced violence. He may have done this since he was teased for acting strangely in order to gain attention during his high school years. Kimmel includes a remark from an educator from 1871 that reads, “Boys among boys are ashamed to be unmanly” (cited in Rotunda, 1993, p. 264). An early age can mark the beginning of the fear of being unmanly. Instructor James Will believes that teachers have the power to inform students and contribute to a safer classroom and community for all. He supports positive and healthy manifestations of masculinity. Overall, people become less aware of the impacts of violence because it is normalized by the media, which promotes negative ideas and behaviours. 

In conclusion, films like “Inside Incel” and “Charlottesville: Race and Terror” show how extreme tendencies like homophobia, misogyny, and racism are stimulated by media of violence and societal ideals of traditional masculinity. The cultural pressure on men to demonstrate their masculinity through aggression is reflected in these images. Male domination continues to be reinforced by larger societal differences. In order to overcome this, it is essential to encourage a more inclusive and positive environment through thorough examination of media content and support for nonviolent approaches.

References:

Kimmel, Michael. Masculinity as Homophobia. 1994.

Charlottesville: Race and Terror. YouTube, Vice News, 14 Aug. 2017,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P54sP0Nlngg&t=5s. Accessed 28 Mar. 2022.

Inside Incel, CBC, The Fifth Estate, 27 Jan. 2019, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqWjCHPg9gA.
Accessed 25 Sept. 2023.

James, Will, Online Influencers, Toxic Masculinity, and the Classroom, Vanier College, March 5, 2024