Big Think

The disappearance of men | Christine Emba

Jun 3, 2025
Christine Emba, author of *Rethinking Sex: A Provocation*, discusses the hidden struggles of modern masculinity. She reveals how many men are grappling with identity crises amid a shifting economic landscape and rising dropout rates. Emba highlights the phenomenon of young men finding solace online, sometimes under the influence of questionable 'manfluencers.' Most importantly, she advocates for a redefinition of masculinity that emphasizes responsibility, strength, and a complementary partnership with femininity to foster a healthier society.
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INSIGHT

Majority of Men Are Struggling

  • Most men are struggling despite visible examples of male success like presidents and CEOs.
  • The shift to a credentialed economy has left many men behind especially in labor market participation.
INSIGHT

Men Lag in Education and Relationships

  • Education and relationship roles have shifted, with men now lagging in college attainment and more men remaining single.
  • Nearly 63% of young men say they are single compared to about 34% of young women.
INSIGHT

Disconnected Men Seek Online Community

  • Many disconnected young men, called NEETs, turn to the internet for community through gaming and discussion forums.
  • Gaming offers achievable success and virtual brotherhood not found in their offline lives.
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