Waller Newell Lecture

Waller Newell’s lecture on “The Crisis of Manliness” addressed the important and alarming shift in our culture’s perception of masculinity. I thought it was interesting how he traced the meaning of “manliness” to its roots in classical Greek literature and suggested we try to instill young men with a sense of chivalry and courage instead of macho aggression. It is astounding how positive qualities like courage and chivalry have morphed into violence and aggression. It is clear the main problem is how society defines manliness today. It allows men to use their gender to justify barbaric behavior. Newell’s reference to “Fight Club” shows how the two definitions of manliness have become increasingly polarized. I liked that Newell wasn’t afraid to point out psychological differences between men and women, but still recognized the flaws in society’s view of masculinity.