Manhood 2. 0: The Battle for a New Definition of Masculinity

The 2020 US presidential election has been marked by a peculiar focus on manhood. Political insiders have dubbed it the "boys versus girls election," with the Republican Party emphasizing a hypermasculine, testosterone-fueled message, while the Democratic Party has countered with a message of inclusivity and reproductive rights. This dichotomy has sparked a conversation about what it means to be a man in today's society. What if we're asking the wrong questions? Instead of pitting traditional masculinity against feminist ideals, what if we redefined manhood altogether? What if we celebrated qualities like empathy, compassion, and vulnerability as essential components of masculinity? The Democratic Party's vice presidential nominee, Kamala Harris, has chosen a running mate who embodies this redefined notion of manhood. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, a former Army National Guard member, has been praised for his "positive masculinity. " He has spoken out on issues like gun violence and reproductive rights, and has even served as the faculty adviser for his high school's first gay-straight alliance club.Walz's journey is a powerful example of what positive masculinity looks like. Instead of relying on aggressive, dominant behavior, he has found ways to channel his strength and leadership skills into positive, life-affirming actions. But what about the Republican Party's message? Is it really necessary to rip off one's shirt to demonstrate masculinity? Can we not celebrate strength and courage without resorting to machismo? The battle for a new definition of masculinity is ongoing, and it's a conversation that affects us all. Whether we're men or women, we're all shaped by our experiences of what it means to be a man. By embracing a more inclusive, compassionate definition of masculinity, we can create a more just and equitable society for everyone.