Gender Equity in Addressing the Multiplicity Within “Masculinity” Through Popular Culture

Abstract

Abstract“Gender equity” implies being fair to all humans, irrespective of their gender, and it is often measured in opposition to the privileges and opportunities which are said to be available for “men”. But most times, this term fails to acknowledge that the implied idea of masculinity, in the larger understanding of “men”, is a construct just like gender. This constructs the notion of “men” as an umbrella term, rather than as a diverse spectrum, which sidelines certain sections and expressions within this spectrum. Therefore, gender equity becomes pivotal in addressing a singular narrative of toxic masculinity, that sidelines a multiplicity of masculine expressions and lifestyle choices. And current trends in the music industry and their fashion choices—specifically Korean Pop and music in the English language—are contributing to challenge this dominant narrative of masculinity. Divergence from the societally approved, single narrative of masculinity begins to have implications on the way they are referred to by the public, their portrayal in the media as well as societal surveillance and scrutiny regarding how they present themselves. This research will cover the aforementioned aspects while addressing dualities like the “Ideal Macho Man” versus “Flower boys”. It will touch upon the implications of terms like “soft masculinity” and the “metrosexual man” along with selected instances from the field of fashion and music emerging from K-Pop and English language along with their media representations depicting masculinity, that symbiotically influences, while simultaneously being shaped, by society’s attitude towards the same. By employing a qualitative analysis of the topic, this research will elaborate on the necessity of extending the reach of gender equity to include numerous male masculinities that are overpowered by a single, prescribed toxic masculinity that is internalized by society. It also extends to understand how public consumption of material such as fashion, music and media bears resonances in shifting societal attitudes towards masculinity while paving the way for diversity and freedom in expression enjoyed by all, regardless of gender.KeywordsMasculinityMultiple masculinitiesk-PopMusic industryFashion industryGender equityPopular culture