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Beyond The Hegemonic: In The Study Of Militaries Masculinities And War

Jeremy Mitchell

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Published in Masculinities At The Margins: Beyond The Hegemonic In The Study Of Militaries Masculinities And War

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The study of military masculinities has traditionally focused on the hegemonic model of masculinity, which valorizes strength, aggression, and dominance. This model has been criticized for being narrow and exclusionary, and for failing to account for the diversity of masculinities that exist within the military. In recent years, there has been a growing body of scholarship that seeks to move beyond the hegemonic model and explore the ways in which military masculinities are shaped by and contribute to war.

This article provides an overview of the key themes and debates in the study of military masculinities and war. We begin by discussing the hegemonic model of masculinity and its implications for war. We then explore the ways in which military masculinities are shaped by and contribute to war. Finally, we discuss the implications of this research for understanding war and for developing more just and equitable military policies.

The hegemonic model of masculinity is a set of culturally dominant beliefs about what it means to be a man. This model valorizes strength, aggression, and dominance, and it defines masculinity in opposition to femininity. The hegemonic model of masculinity has been shown to have a number of negative consequences, including increased rates of violence, crime, and substance abuse.

Masculinities at the Margins: Beyond the Hegemonic in the Study of Militaries, Masculinities and War

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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The hegemonic model of masculinity is particularly salient in the military, where it is often used to justify the use of violence and to maintain the status quo. For example, the military often portrays its members as strong, aggressive, and dominant, and it emphasizes the importance of loyalty and obedience. This portrayal of masculinity serves to reinforce the idea that men are naturally suited for war and that they are willing to sacrifice their lives for their country.

Military masculinities have a significant impact on war. First, they help to create a culture of violence and aggression that makes it more likely that war will occur. Second, they make it more difficult for men to express emotions other than anger and aggression, which can lead to mental health problems and relationship difficulties. Third, they reinforce the idea that men are superior to women, which can lead to discrimination and violence against women.

The impact of military masculinities on war is evident in a number of ways. For example, research has shown that soldiers who score high on measures of hegemonic masculinity are more likely to support the use of violence, to engage in risky behavior, and to suffer from mental health problems. Additionally, research has shown that units with high levels of hegemonic masculinity are more likely to experience sexual harassment and assault.

The hegemonic model of masculinity is a harmful and outdated ideal that has no place in the military. In Free Download to create a more just and equitable military, we need to move beyond this model and embrace a more inclusive and diverse understanding of masculinity.

There are a number of ways to move beyond the hegemonic model of masculinity. One way is to challenge the idea that strength, aggression, and dominance are the only qualities that define masculinity. Another way is to promote the expression of a wider range of emotions, including love, compassion, and empathy. Finally, we need to challenge the idea that men are superior to women and promote gender equality.

Moving beyond the hegemonic model of masculinity will not be easy, but it is essential for creating a more just and equitable military. By embracing a more inclusive and diverse understanding of masculinity, we can create a military that is more representative of our society and that is better equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

The study of military masculinities and war is a complex and challenging field of research. However, it is essential for understanding the ways in which gender shapes war and for developing more just and equitable military policies. By moving beyond the hegemonic model of masculinity, we can create a military that is more representative of our society and that is better equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

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A group of soldiers standing in formation. The soldiers are all wearing camouflage uniforms and carrying weapons.

Masculinities at the Margins: Beyond the Hegemonic in the Study of Militaries, Masculinities and War

5 out of 5