Toxic behaviors associated with masculinity are not exclusive to men and can be exhibited by women as well, highlighting the need to address the specific character type engaging in these behaviors rather than labeling masculinity as inherently toxic.
The concept of toxic masculinity fails to distinguish between the behaviors themselves and the character type exhibiting them, leading to an inaccurate association of negative behaviors with masculinity, which should instead be seen as a virtuous character formed through the cultivation of cardinal virtues.
Masculinity should be understood as a virtuous character type based on the cultivation of cardinal virtues like prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance, rather than being defined by specific traits, expressions, or external factors.
Deep dives
Masculinity and Toxicity
Masculinity is not inherently toxic. The idea of toxic masculinity refers to certain behaviors exhibited by a specific character type, which is not truly masculine. Toxic behaviors such as aggression, violence against women, and lack of vulnerability are not unique to men and can be exhibited by women as well. The focus should be on addressing the character type that engages in these toxic behaviors rather than labeling masculinity as inherently toxic. Masculinity, when based on virtues such as prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance, is not toxic but rather a positive and virtuous character.
Exploring Toxic Masculinity Label
The concept of toxic masculinity labels certain behaviors as toxic but fails to distinguish between the behaviors themselves and the character type exhibiting those behaviors. It is important to recognize that toxic or vicious behaviors are not specific to masculinity but can also be exhibited by women. Behaviors like aggression, lack of vulnerability, and pursuit of someone who is not interested are not inherently masculine or feminine. Instead of labeling these behaviors as toxic masculinity, it is more accurate to identify them as indicative of a character type lacking in virtue. The term toxic masculinity incorrectly associates negative behaviors with masculinity without acknowledging the root cause: a lack of character formation.
Seeking a Positive Definition of Masculinity
The understanding of masculinity needs to shift from focusing on toxic behaviors to recognizing masculinity as a virtuous character type. Masculinity is not inherently toxic, but a character type formed through the cultivation of the four cardinal virtues: prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. Toxic behaviors do not define masculinity, as these behaviors can also be exhibited by women. By emphasizing the virtues and positive qualities associated with masculinity, such as responsibility, courage, and maturity, we can reclaim masculinity as something virtuous and positive. This reframing is essential to counter the narrative that masculinity is inherently toxic and to provide young boys with healthy role models and a positive understanding of what it means to be a man.
Understanding Virtuous Masculinity
Virtuous masculinity is not synonymous with specific traits or expressions. It is based on cardinal virtues such as courage and justice, which are manifested differently in various situations. The TV series Band of Brothers exemplifies virtuous masculinity through the heroic actions of Easy Company during World War II. However, every individual is called to be virtuous according to their unique circumstances. Masculinity should not be defined by specific careers, dress sense, or external factors, but rather by the cultivation of virtuous character.
Fine-Tuning and Virtue Ethics
The concept of fine-tuning in the universe raises interesting questions about the existence of God and the nature of reality. While the fine-tuning argument highlights the low probability of certain conditions necessary for life, it should be considered as part of a cumulative case for the existence of God. The fine-tuning argument alone may not provide a definitive proof, but it suggests the presence of a higher order and leads to questions about substance and existence. Aquinas' metaphysical approach suggests that virtues are expressed differently in different contexts, and a deeper understanding of virtues can help us navigate questions of dress code, career choice, and prudence in various situations.
