Rethinking masculinity: Unveiling societal fractures

In an era marked by social upheavals and cultural transformations, documentaries serve as a mirror reflecting the complexities of our society. “Charlottesville: Race and Terror” and “Inside Incel” delve into two distinct yet interconnected contemporary themes: racial tensions and the rise of involuntary celibates (Incels). By drawing Michael Kimmel’s insights on masculinity and Will James’s exploration of male identity in digital spaces, this analysis will demonstrate how toxic masculinity manifests differently in the context depicted in those documentaries, ultimately contributing to broader discussions on gender, power and social dynamics.

Michael Kimmel’s concept that homophobia is a central organizing principle of manhood and is more than the fear of gay men is exemplified in the documentary “Charlottesville: Race and Terror”. The white supremacist ideology perpetuated by the people featured in the video represents an extreme manifestation of hegemonic masculinity in which power, dominance and control are central beliefs. They feel superior to the LGBTQ2+ community as if they are “normal” compare to them, because they considered themselves as straight masculine males but Kimmel’s analysis helps us understand how this toxic form of masculinity not only fuel racial violence but also serves as a mechanism for maintaining societal hierarchies based on gender and race.

Will James’ exploration of male identity in digital spaces offers valuable insights into the world of involuntary celibates, as depicted in the documentary “Inside Incel.” People are on Internet more than ever before and men are not exempted of that. Generally, this type of men doesn’t have a lot of social interactions and isolate themselves so they go online to release their anger on strangers, notably women who seem out of reach to them. It also highlights how online communities provide a platform for men to express their frustrations and grievances, often amplifying toxic beliefs and reinforcing harmful stereotypes about masculinity. Through this perspective, we can analyze ourselves how the anonymity and accessibility of digital platform facilitate the proliferation of toxic masculinity, contributing to the radicalization of individuals who feel marginalized.

In conclusion, the documentaries, “Charlottesville: Race and Terror” and “Inside Incel” offer thought-provoking narratives that highlights the multifaceted nature of toxic masculinity in today’s society. By applying the insights of Michael Kimmel and Will James, we gain a deeper understanding of how masculinity works in different social and cultural contexts and how digital spaces influence the construction of male identity. These analyses underscore the urgent need for addressing toxic masculinity as a societal issue, as its consequences resound through various aspects of our lives, from racial tension to online radicalization. Only through continued efforts to challenge gender norms can we hope to foster healthier, more inclusive environment for all individuals.