Online I always see a lot of these stupid ass “alpha male” edits that talk about embracing masculinity and rejecting weakness and whatnot. While I agree that just being violent and aggressive is wrong, there is merit to the idea if you contextualize it properly. For the sake of context, my definition of “weakness” is giving in to temptations of the flesh, refusing to improve oneself (complacency), and lack of self discipline. My definition of “masculinity” in this context is striving to protect loved ones, constantly improving, self discipline, and being the kind of person someone can rely on as opposed to the type of person that always needs to rely on others.

Now I agree that in today’s society, men should not be required to reject any kind of weaknesses they have and they shouldn’t be required to embody masculinity. I believe that men should be able to do what they want to do as long as it isn’t hurting themselves or other people. But often, when you talk about embracing masculinity, it seems that the people who speak out against these ideas WANT men to be “weak” or “not masculine” as opposed to wanting us to have the choice.

In my opinion it SHOULD be a choice. If I want to embrace what would be considered a “gender norm” for masculinity (see my definition above) then I should be allowed to do that. As long as I’m not forcing that idea on other people.

I could be completely mistaken about this but I feel like a lot of men these days are feeling pressured into NOT being masculine as opposed to being pressured into masculinity. The problem of “internalized misandry” (toxic masculinity) as many of you like to call it has been flipped on it’s head. If I want to be masculine and express more masculine traits, if I want to reject my weaknesses and improve myself, I should be allowed to. Without people assuming I’m some alpha male top g idiot. I shouldn’t be called “toxic” for that.

What do you guys think about this line of thought? I’d like to hear your opinions and your critiques.