Activity #6

I agree with Kimmel in his argument that masculinity is socially constructed and historically shifts because I believe that masculinity is defined by our society and is passed down in history. There wouldn’t be a defined “who is more man than another” unless society so names what it means to be a man. Masculinity is also somewhat of a competition between men to see who is stronger and tougher. I believe that every man is afraid of being a sissy in front of other men, yet when in the presence of only women sometimes they show their “softer” side. Due to this fact homophobia is very prevalent among men because they do not want to be seen or be friends with someone who is considered a “fag” or “sissy.”
According to Jackson Katz, the “tough guise” is the front that men put on in front of large groups as being a real man: tough, strong, wise, and powerful. It is the front that makes them masculint. He believes that men should shop putting this front on and loosen up a bit, show some of their softer side and even look down upon men who do put on the tough guy attitude. He believes that by hiding all this emotion, they are messing with their true personality and mental wellness. They should let those emotions out, instead of letting them get bottled up inside.