In her newly released book, “What Is Wrong with Men: Patriarchy, the Crisis of Masculinity, and How (Of Course) Michael Douglas Films Explain Everything,” author Jessa Crispin delves into the modern challenges facing men in a rapidly changing society. Crispin cites alarming statistics that show men lagging behind in education and employment, as well as rising rates of drug overdoses and suicides among young men. Podcast host Seth Illing points out the urgency of addressing the disconnection and loneliness plaguing many men today.
Crispin proposes that dismantling patriarchy and reevaluating societal values could aid in alleviating this crisis. She argues for a shift from winner-takes-all competition to a more communal approach focused on supporting education, the underprivileged, and working-class citizens.
Interestingly, Crispin uses the lens of iconic actor Michael Douglas’ films from the 1980s and 1990s to illustrate her points. According to her, these movies encapsulate male anxiety and confusion during a time of significant social upheaval. In films like “Fatal Attraction,” “Wall Street,” and “Basic Instinct,” Douglas’s characters represent various facets of masculinity, serving as reflections of the societal changes that challenged traditional male roles and the pressures they brought.
While some may find common ground in Crispin’s examination of masculinity and her critique of patriarchal norms, her views on gender as a social performance raise the question of how the Left can simultaneously appeal to traditional notions of masculinity amid ongoing debates about gender identity. She emphasizes that discussions around masculinity remain sensitive and complex in today’s political landscape.
Crispin contrasts the portrayal of masculinity in Douglas’s roles with that of Rick Deckard from the sci-fi classic “Blade Runner,” suggesting that Deckard embodies a more authentic representation of the emotional struggles and yearnings of modern men. She argues that replicants in the film, despite being creations designed for service, display deeper humanity than their human counterparts, hinting at the evolving definitions of what it means to be masculine in contemporary society.
Crispin’s exploration invites readers to consider the shifting dynamics of gender and identity, and though it poses many questions, it also opens the door for a constructive dialogue about how society can better support men’s mental health and well-being. There is a growing acknowledgment of the need to understand men as individuals facing unique challenges, which could lead to more holistic solutions moving forward.