In my time reading submissions here, and following the links provided, I've noticed something fairly significant. Many misandrists use a very ill-defined definition of manhood to launch its assaults, making it difficult to properly assert a defense. Heresay and anecdotes abound, but very little is put forward (from either side, it seems) as an appropriate definition.

Having a clear thesis on the expectations of ourselves will not only allow for a more robust stance against detractors, but also provide a place from which to assert ourselves as a group and individuals when advocating for change and reform.

With that in mind, here's an essay I put together, with my thoughts on the subject.

HONORABLE, RESPONSIBLE, DEDICATED.

This essay is meant to be read and discussed in its entirety, rather than piecemeal. Though it contradicts itself in places, it should be noted that life is often agreed to be fairly inconsistent. To be honorable is to hold yourself to an internal, moral code of thought and behaviour of compassion, honesty and respect; and then acting in accordance with that code. Compassion is more than simply acknowledging another's distress. Empathy is integral to this ideal - identifying another's needs for company, support and/or assistance, and then meeting those as best you can.

At its core, honesty is truthfulness, but encompasses much more, as well. Honesty is a lack of disingeniousness, dissembling, and omission. This should not be mistaken for simple bluntness - honesty should be a part of constructive and forthright discussion and action. Any person - not only men - should have respect for all individuals, including and especially themselves. Respect is characterized by courtesy and knowledge - you cannot treat a person (even yourself) without understanding them. Active and passive observation can show you where their boundaries are, and their priorities. Disagreements and personal conflicts should be resolved with these in mind.

Know your own worth - as a person, you are entitled to trust, courtesy and the integrity of your physical and emotional space. Give those to others, and only tolerate the company of those who don't as strictly necessary.

Being responsible means acquitting your moral and financial obligations to yourself and your dependents. Financial acquittal should come by either working to support yourself, or supporting the person or people who work to support you. Moral responsibility is fulfilled by making rational, informed decisions and accepting the results of those decisions.

It should go without saying that mistakes are inevitable. Rather than seeing this as a failure, it should be acknowledged as an opportunity to learn from the experience, and to forward and do better.

Asking for help, advice, or wisdom from your elders and peers is not acting irresponsibly. Determining your needs, and taking steps to fulfill them is the core of responsibility. Corollary to this is remembering your debts and repaying, either personally or by "paying it forward" - that is, acting in the same role for another in need.

Dedication can also be called steadfastness - hold to your convictions, and stand by those who act with honor and responsibility. Act with loyalty to your friends, with compassion and honesty.

To be dedicated to yourself means to understand your principles, and know how they should and do influence your decisions and actions. Equally as important is to understand where and how they contradict, and resolving those contradictions without comprising yourself.

At its most basic, the nature of manhood is one of strength - the strength to understand the world we live in, and to meet the obligations of living in it. More importantly, it is the strength to treat everyone with kindness, and to leave the world better than you found it.

(Minor edits for formatting and spelling fixes.)