Maculinity, says R.W.Connell.
is not just one this, and instead we should be talking about “masculinities” in
the plural, and here are some examples:
1. Hegemonic Masculinity: At its core, this concept refers to the configuration of
gender practice which embodies the currently accepted answer to the problem of
the legitimacy of patriarchy, which guarantees (or is taken to guarantee) the
dominant position of men and the subordination of women. It is not necessarily
the most common form of masculinity, but rather the form that sustains the
dominant social position of men and the subordinate social position of women.
2. Complicit Masculinity: Refers to men who may not themselves enact dominant forms
of masculinity but benefit from the hegemony of men over women. These
individuals do not challenge the status quo of gender relations and thus
indirectly support the structure of hegemonic masculinity.
3. Subordinated Masculinity: Masculinities that exist in opposition to or at a lower
rank than hegemonic masculinity within the social hierarchy. This often
includes masculinities associated with homosexuality, certain racial and ethnic
identities, and other non-normative gender expressions, which are marginalized
because they do not fit the hegemonic ideal.
4. Marginalized Masculinity: Focuses on the intersections of gender with race, class,
and ethnicity, highlighting how certain groups of men are marginalized within
the gender order. This concept emphasizes that while these men may be
privileged by gender, they are disadvantaged by other social factors.
5. Protest Masculinity: A form of masculinity adopted by those who feel
disenfranchised or disempowered by the socio-economic system. It is characterized
by the exaggeration of traditional masculine norms and behaviors (such as
toughness and aggression) as a form of resistance against perceived
marginalization.
6. Toxic Masculinity: Although not coined by Connell, this term has been used
in discussions about hegemonic masculinity to describe cultural norms that can
be harmful to men, women, and society overall. It characterizes manhood as
defined by violence, sex, status, and aggression, emphasizing the destructive
aspects of failing to conform to hegemonic masculinity.
7. Masculinity and Capitalism: Connell has also explored the relationship
between masculinity and the economic structure, particularly capitalism.
Hegemonic masculinity is seen as supporting and being supported by capitalist
economic relations, reinforcing gender inequality through the division of labor
and the valorization of certain types of work over others.
8. Global Hegemonic Masculinity: The concept has been expanded to consider the
global dimension, where certain forms of masculinity (often those associated
with Western, white, middle-class men) are privileged over others on a global
scale, influencing international politics, economics, and culture.
9. Hybrid Masculinities: This concept refers to the ways in which some men adopt
elements of identity traditionally associated with marginalized or subordinated
masculinities, while still maintaining overall positions of gender privilege.
It highlights the fluidity and complexity of gender identities and the
strategic negotiation of masculinity in contemporary societies.
10. Precarious Masculinity: The idea that masculinity is not an innate attribute but
rather a status that must be continually earned and demonstrated through
performance. This precariousness can lead to overcompensation through
aggressive or dominant behavior.
11. Masculinity and Emotion: Challenges the traditional association of masculinity
with stoicism and emotional restraint. It explores how emotional expression and
vulnerability are integral to redefining and understanding masculinities in a
more nuanced way.
12. The Crisis of Masculinity: Refers to the perceived crisis in traditional male roles
and identities resulting from social changes, including the feminist movement,
economic shifts, and the changing nature of work. This concept examines how
these changes challenge traditional notions of what it means to be a man.