Rediscovering Stoic Masculinity: Beyond Modern Anxieties About Manhood
The past decade and a half has presented significant challenges for Canada, with declining prosperity accompanied by an erosion of the foundational elements that once made our society exceptional. Qualities such as resilience, friendship, and service—which previously united Canadians and positioned the nation as a global exemplar—have diminished. In this examination, we explore what has been lost, beginning with a crucial aspect: masculinity.
The Modern Anxiety About Men and Boys
If one were to believe contemporary discourse, men—particularly young men—are frequently portrayed as a societal problem. Numerous commentators suggest that the "manosphere" is enticing boys toward harmful ideologies, potentially transforming them into misogynistic individuals who harbor animosity toward women. Concerns abound that online incel communities might be influencing teenage boys through platforms like Discord, while video games such as Grand Theft Auto are feared to reduce empathy toward female victims in real life. Additionally, popular podcasts, including Joe Rogan's, are cited as posing "significant dangers" to how young men perceive gender dynamics, power structures, and equality.
Historical Parallels: A Recurring Concern
From a historical perspective, this contemporary apprehension about masculinity appears remarkably familiar. Anxiety regarding the development and behavior of boys is not a novel phenomenon. Many Canadians may visit their local YMCA for exercise without realizing its origins stem from a similar period of concern in the late 19th century. During that era, moralists worried about young men relocating to industrial cities, separated from familial guidance and maternal influence that was believed essential for instilling moral values. In response, the Young Men's Christian Association was established to provide lodging, physical activity, and spiritual direction for these youths.
The Shift: Masculinity as the Problem
However, a profound distinction characterizes the 2020s: it has become increasingly common to argue that boys require protection from the concept of manhood itself. This perspective is often encapsulated by terms like "toxic masculinity," suggesting that traditional masculine ideals are inherently problematic. While there is validity in critiquing past generations for tolerating men's violence against women or perpetuating sexist notions of women as property—ideas incompatible with a liberal society that upholds individual rights—this modern viewpoint often overlooks historical nuances.
Ancient Wisdom: The Stoic Ideal of Manhood
Contrary to contemporary suspicions, ancient philosophies like Stoicism envisioned an ideal man as brave and fearless, guided by reason, and accepting of life's controllable and uncontrollable aspects. This archetype emphasized compassion without naivety toward suffering. Historically, ideals of manhood frequently aimed to elevate men, encouraging them to become better versions of themselves: selfless, courageous providers who prioritized the well-being of their families and communities. The principle of "women and children first" exemplified a call to sacrifice personal safety for others' protection.
Reconciling Past and Present
To modern sensibilities, these traditional ideals may seem sexist, implying male superiority or assuming women need protection—a notion many women rightly challenge. Yet, in dismissing these differences, we risk losing sight of the enduring appeal of manhood as a call to service and sacrifice. Men, unable to bear children, historically channeled their labor, resources, time, and even lives to ensure the survival and prosperity of others. The irony lies in how contemporary progressives, who view masculinity with suspicion, often remain unaware that older conceptions of manhood were designed to curb the very behaviors they now condemn.
As Canada navigates these complex discussions, revisiting Stoic principles offers a balanced perspective: masculinity need not be toxic when rooted in reason, courage, and compassion. By understanding historical contexts, we can foster a more nuanced dialogue about gender roles, moving beyond fear toward a reinvigorated sense of purpose and unity in society.
