By Jim Heffernan
Finding truth is difficult. Contrasting messages swirl about continuously. Inspired by the book, “The Scout Mindset” by Julia Galef, I’ve volunteered to be a scout for the community. I am looking for truth. I have some qualifications, but I’m not infallible. If you think I’ve been decieved, please let me know. Maybe it takes more than one scout to ferret out the truth. The threats that face us can only be dealt with if we know the truth.
I see compelling evidence that our crazy times are rooted in our current definition of masculinity. Our current definition produces a condition accurately described as toxic masculinity.
I was introduced to this concept by Bill McKibben when he talked about “petro masculinity.” Petro masculinity explains the drive to preserve our dependence on fossil fuels and cast doubt on replacing fossil fuels with wind, solar, and nuclear power. Fossil fuels appeal to toxic masculinity’s urge for dominance. Through geography or force, you can own fossil fuels. Wind and solar are available to all. The United States is committing itself to the losing proposition of propping up fossil fuel empires. The smart move would be to emulate our chief rival, China, and move on to renewables.
The effects of toxic masculinity go far beyond “petro masculinity.”
Mass shootings, abuse of women and children, and an epidemic of male suicide and murder are all fueled by toxic masculinity.
My education on the topic comes from two books — For the Love of Men: From Toxic to a More Mindful Masculinity by Liz Plank and The Will to Change: Men, Masculinity, and Love by bell hooks.
I’ve given this a lot of thought and believe this to be an accurate assessment.
As always, discussion is welcome at codger817@gmail.com