Basically title, I participated in an interesting exchange over the past day or so, and it made me wonder what some of the more useful resources are for men to learn about their bodies, hormones, brains, emotions, support networks, etc.
So I’m interested in websites, forums, video series, books, whatever. Links would be great if you’ve got them.
(Disclaimer: I am not male myself, which is why I’ve no idea, and am curious, but if this gains traction, I’d also just like to have this post be a resource. It’s good to periodically take stock of what’s out there.)
I appreciate your voice of caution.
To the second half of your comment, I think I’d propose we do not necessarily always need an asterisk on a male-specific support space. Yes, we should all support each other, but I think modern feminism and the good of the feminist movement has shown us that many, many decent men are quietly suffering just to get by, and not necessarily a part of the reactive toxic masculinity sphere. Perhaps finding the maturity for that balanced space where anyone can generally support any other still needs an interim step, slowly working towards a more centered place of generalised acceptance, and, dare I ask for it, calm.
It is also possible we’re talking past each other, but I felt it worth saying :)
modern feminist thinking regard men’s suffering as progress for women. because it seems to think women’s progress must come at the expense of men. it’s largely antagonistic.
non-antagonistic feminist or gender theorizing doesn’t get much social traction because human beings want to root for their group and boo the opposite group. people can’t get behind rooting for everyone. they can get behind rooting for men vs women though, just like any other group vs group oppositional dynamic.
I would suggest that the reason some men may need safe male spaces, is similar to the reason some women need safe female-only spaces. Not only does toxic masculinity exist, toxic femininity also exists, even if it is less pervasive. We live in a highly narcissistic culture where people who don’t understand the experiences of those different from themselves feel entitled to shit on them.
That said, we should be highly suspicious of those with an axe to grind making prescriptions about what it means to be male.
toxic femininity is socially normalized in a way that toxic masculinity is not. this has changed from say two generations ago when toxic masculinity was more normalized.
a woman flying into a rage about how men are all awful evil rapists… would mostly find agreement with her sentiments from both sexes. a man flying into a rage about how women are awful and evil… would get almost universally condemned.