A recent discussion on “The View” explored the concept of masculinity, challenging the notion of “toxic masculinity” as a societal ill. The conversation stemmed from NYU business professor Scott Galloway’s new book, “Notes on Being a Man,” which advocates for a renewed and positive understanding of manhood.
Galloway highlighted concerning trends affecting young men, noting their disproportionate rates of suicide, addiction, and incarceration. He argued that providing them with a constructive model of masculinity is crucial to navigate these challenges effectively.
“For young men, I like the idea of restoring an aspirational vision of masculinity that can serve as a code,” Galloway stated.
He outlined what he believes are three fundamental pillars of healthy masculinity:
* Providing for others
* Taking initiative in romantic relationships
* Protecting and safeguarding those around you.
Galloway pointed to statistics demonstrating a concerning trend – over half of young men have never asked a woman out in person, despite most women desiring that a man initiate courtship. Furthermore, he emphasized the responsibility men bear in protecting society.
“From an early age we have to teach our boys that the transition to manhood means your default operating system is protection,” Galloway asserted.
His vision of masculinity extends beyond traditional notions, including standing up for marginalized groups. “There is nothing wrong with masculinity. It is a wonderful guidepost. Lean in, we just need to redefine what it means to be a man,” he urged.
He elaborated further: “You add surplus value. You create more tax revenue than you absorb. You protect people. You witness their lives. You register more complaints than you actually complain. And if you leave this Earth having given more than you’ve taken, then you leave this world as a man. That is what it means to be a man.”
Whoopi Goldberg echoed this sentiment, summarizing Galloway’s perspective with concise clarity: “You don’t have to be Popeye, you know, but you got to be present.”
Galloway emphasized that masculinity isn’t exclusive to men. “Masculinity is not sequestered to people born as men. There are wonderful women who demonstrate wonderful masculinity.” He noted his own attraction to men who embody nurturing and caring qualities.
“These are wonderful attributes, they’re not sequestered to anyone born as a specific gender,” he added.
While acknowledging the importance of celebrating femininity, Galloway argued that society has neglected to acknowledge the value and contributions of men. “But let’s also celebrate our young men and recognize that being risk-aggressive, being a provider, being strong, wanting to be fit such that you can protect and provide, those are wonderful things. Let’s stop pathologizing it.”
Galloway firmly refuted the idea of “toxic masculinity,” stating: “There is no such thing as toxic masculinity. There is cruelty, there is criminal behavior, there’s abuse of power. But if you do any of those things, you are not masculine. That is anti-masculine.” He criticized attempts to equate masculinity with negativity, particularly by those on the far right.