Masculinity and its discontents

Abstract

The emergence of sexual politics and women's movements is generally viewed in terms of the problems of women—or of women as problems. However, while it is women who experience sexual oppression, it is the system of gender relations that is the problem, and masculinity in its contemporary forms is a major contributor to this system. Masculinity is challenged by the new movements, and in this article it is argued that it is in crisis due to these and to changes in social structures. This crisis is reflected in the backlash against what are often labelled ‘1960s’ demands for women's and gay rights. But it creates opportunities for men to recognize that masculinity limits their humanity too, and to begin to examine ways in which they can contribute to defining new sex roles.