Hegemonic masculinity

Definition

Hegemonic masculinity refers to the dominant form of masculinity that is culturally exalted and seen as the ideal standard for male behavior. It encompasses traits such as authority, strength, and heterosexuality, while marginalizing other masculinities and femininities. This concept shapes gender relations and reinforces power dynamics in various social contexts, influencing areas like identity, politics, and international relations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hegemonic masculinity operates on a spectrum where certain masculinities are privileged over others, often leading to the oppression of those who do not conform to these ideals.
2. This concept helps to explain the relationship between gender and power, showing how cultural norms around masculinity can influence societal structures.
3. Hegemonic masculinity often intersects with other forms of dominance, such as race and class, highlighting the complexity of social hierarchies.
4. It can be challenged through feminist movements that aim to deconstruct traditional notions of masculinity and advocate for more inclusive definitions of gender.
5. In international relations, hegemonic masculinity can influence diplomatic practices and global governance structures, often sidelining women's voices and contributions.

Review Questions

• How does hegemonic masculinity relate to Judith Butler's theory of gender performativity?
  • Hegemonic masculinity aligns with Judith Butler's theory of gender performativity by illustrating how cultural expectations shape masculine identities. Butler argues that gender is performed based on societal norms rather than being innate. Hegemonic masculinity exemplifies this idea as it sets a standard that men are pressured to perform in order to be seen as 'real men,' thus reinforcing traditional gender roles through repeated behaviors.
• Discuss the implications of hegemonic masculinity in the context of feminist critiques of conservatism and nationalism.
  • Feminist critiques of conservatism and nationalism often highlight how hegemonic masculinity perpetuates traditional power structures that marginalize women and non-conforming identities. Conservative ideologies frequently promote an image of strong, authoritative men as leaders, which reinforces the idea that leadership is inherently masculine. This dynamic can suppress feminist voices and limit opportunities for women in political spheres, perpetuating a cycle of inequality.
• Evaluate the role of hegemonic masculinity in shaping women's participation in global governance and diplomacy.
  • Hegemonic masculinity plays a critical role in shaping women's participation in global governance by establishing norms that prioritize masculine traits such as assertiveness and competition. This often leads to the exclusion of women from leadership roles within diplomatic contexts. However, recognizing this dynamic allows for the development of strategies to challenge these norms, promoting more inclusive practices that value diverse perspectives and experiences in decision-making processes at both national and international levels.

Related terms

Gender Performativity: The theory that gender is not an inherent quality but rather a performance that individuals enact based on societal norms and expectations.

Patriarchy:

A social system in which men hold primary power, dominating roles in political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property.

Intersectionality:

A framework for understanding how various social identities (such as race, gender, and class) intersect and contribute to unique experiences of oppression and privilege.