The Bible For Normal People [Faith] Episode 68: Kristin Kobes Du Mez - A Modern Church History of Toxic Masculinity (REISSUE)
Nov 17, 2025
In this engaging conversation, historian Kristin Kobes Du Mez delves into the troubling history of toxic masculinity within the church and American culture. She unpacks how ideals of manhood have evolved, from 19th-century gentility to Cold War militarism, shaped by figures like Billy Graham and Hollywood icons such as John Wayne. Kristin addresses the consolidation of power through fear tactics and explores the complexities of masculinity's role in modern evangelicalism, urging a reflection on how these harmful patterns can be challenged.
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Militant Manhood Shaped Political Choices
- Kristin Kobes Du Mez traced militant Christian masculinity from popular books like Wild at Heart to political support for aggressive foreign policy.
- She connected early-2000s evangelical manhood rhetoric to white evangelical support for the Iraq War and later Trump.
Patriarchy Versus Cultural Weaponization
- Du Mez distinguishes patriarchy as male power and the cultural layers that make masculinity harmful.
- She shows ‘toxic’ traits frame aggression, sexual entitlement, and power as divinely sanctioned and destructive.
Cold War Cemented The Fusion
- The Cold War crystallized a rugged Christian masculinity tied to defending America and traditional gender roles.
- Institutions like the National Association of Evangelicals helped fuse militarism, nationalism, and male headship.
