Exploiting Patterns

A Critique of Hegemonic Masculinity

Bibliographic Data

ID3658819
AuthorsMichael Moller (0000-0001-8713-4420, Schlumberger (Ireland), corresponding author)
Year2007
Volume16
Issue3
Pages263-276
Publication date2007-11-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Gender Studies (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0958-9236 • E-ISSN: 1465-3869
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/09589230701562970
OpenAlexW2017750230
LanguageEN
Citations received77
References cited17

The work of R. W. Connell has been extremely influential within the field of masculinity studies for at least the past decade. In particular, his concept of hegemonic masculinity has been used as a means of interrogating the practices, attitudes and meanings of both masculinities and men. In this article the author problematises Connell's tendency to map out an entire conceptual system for theorising masculinity/ies and power. This is done in two ways. First, he argues that Connell's critical review of the different ways in which masculinity has been theorised tries to lay claim to an objective position from which the patterns of masculinity will become obvious. This reduces the complexity and nuances of what the subjects of masculinity (often, men) actually do. Second, he illustrates how Connell's determination of masculinity as dominating overdetermines what men actually do, say and feel. Drawing on an example from Connell's work on masculinity and education, he argues that men's practices and motivations are often more complex than the concept of hegemonic masculinity allows

Hegemonic masculinity · Hegemony · Masculinity · Political science · Politics · Sociology · Gender Roles and Identity Studies · Gender Studies · Gender, Feminism, and Media · Historical Gender and Feminism Studies · Law

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