Straight White American Jesus It's in the Code ep 175: “You Can’t Tell A Good Story Without Bad Guys”
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Jan 14, 2026 The discussion dives into Josh Hawley's vision of masculinity through patriarchal storytelling. It highlights how Hawley creates antagonists to frame his narrative, emphasizing an us-versus-them mentality. Critics argue that his portrayal of opponents as one-dimensional caricatures oversimplifies complex social dynamics. There’s a critique of Hawley’s six prescribed masculine roles and his strategies to foster anxiety about societal collapse. The episode concludes by examining the rhetorical tactics used to present a softened version of patriarchy.
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Masculinity Framed As Theological Narrative
- Josh Hawley frames his book as a theological narrative prescribing a God-given masculinity mandate.
- Dan Miller argues Hawley is primarily telling a story that needs villains to be persuasive.
The Two-Camp Simplification
- Hawley reduces social complexity into two camps: those who accept his masculinity vision and everyone else.
- Miller explains this simplification fuels populist and high-control religious appeal by offering certainty.
Softened Tone, Same Content
- Hawley attempts to present a 'kinder, gentler' patriarchy as an invitation rather than a demand.
- Miller contends the tone softens rhetoric but leaves the same patriarchal content intact.
