Transforming Masculinities

Critically exploring the ways in which men and masculinities are commonly theorized, this multidisciplinary text opens up discussions on such relationships, and shows that, as with feminisms, there is a diversity of theoretical traditions. It draws on a variety of examples, and explores new directions in the complexities of diverse male identities and emotional lives across different histories, cultures and traditions. Transforming Masculinities explores new ways of thinking men's power and the tensions men often feel in relation to prevailing cultural masculinities. Questioning the idea that masculinities can be understood exclusively as relationships of power, this book explores how men's power has to be understood in relation to specific cultures and traditions and how transformations in gender relations across generations mean we have to think in new ways about men, masculinities, cultures, bodies, sexualities and emotional life. Challenging the universal applicability of Western models ofhegemonic masculinity Seidler suggests that we need to think differently about diverse cultural masculinities and recognize that men have to engage critically with their own cultural traditions to create more equal and loving relationships. Written in a practical, versatile manner by an established author in this field, it points to new directions in thinking, and makes essential reading for advanced undergraduates, postgraduates and researchers in the fields of sociology, gender studies, politics, philosophy and psychology.

Victor Jeleniewski Seidler is Professor of Social Theory in the Department of Sociology, Goldsmiths College, University of London.