Discussing Men

PathForge
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  • Philosophy

Masculinity is supposedly in crisis. Is it? What does that mean to you and for the world? Welcome to Discussing Men, a podcast dedicated to exploring modern masculinities, men's mental health, and the rapidly shifting cultural landscape. Hosted by philosopher Dr. Simon Fokt and activist Aleks Dimitrijevic, this show moves beyond surface-level answers to investigate the real challenges men face today, from navigating stressful work environments and relationships to experiencing the profound identity shifts of fatherhood. We take a deep, analytical look at current global trends, sociological data, and online movements to understand why so many men feel isolated or misunderstood in today's world. We examine how changing economic structures, systemic pressures, and digital algorithms shape modern male identity. Whether you are looking to deepen your professional knowledge, better understand the men in your life, dismantle harmful cultural tropes, or discover positive narratives that foster genuine personal growth and systemic change, this podcast will offer you the nuanced, down-to-earth insights you need.

Episodes

  1. Jul 31

    Democratic Masculinities

    How does masculinity relates to democratic principles, radicalization, and societal change? Based on the recent report from the Men for Dem project, our expert speakers analyze the links between gender socialization, political extremism, and ways to foster healthier masculinities and democratic engagement. Key topics: The intersection of masculinity, insecurity, and radicalization in a polarized political landscapeThe impact of social isolation, emotional repression, and societal precarity on men's susceptibility to anti-democratic narrativesStrategies for fostering empathy, vulnerability, and democratic masculinities through education and community practicesThe role of influential figures, social media, and peer groups in constructing or challenging harmful masculinitiesThe potential for positive narratives, role models, and systemic change to counteract right-wing and anti-democratic movementsImportance of early education, inclusive dialogue, and societal inclusiveness in transforming gender normsThe necessity of addressing structural issues like neoliberalism and social inequality in promoting democratic masculinities Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to the Men for Dem project and its goals in preventing radicalization 02:36 - Overview of the project's scope involving universities, NGOs, and art initiatives 07:44 - Connection between backlash against gender justice and broader democratic erosion 12:17 - Historical and colonial roots of backlash against gender equality 21:05 - How traditional masculinity contributes to radicalization and societal insecurity 29:54 - The influence of social media, influencers, and online communities on youth masculinities 39:03 - Promoting democratic masculinities through dialogue, shared vulnerability, and positive narratives 45:00 - The importance of role models, representation, and cultural change in reshaping masculinities 55:37 - Strategies for engaging men and boys through community, education, and systemic reform 65:51 - The role of shared stories, reflection, and early education in cultivating healthier gender norms 75:45 - The significance of systemic change, political will, and progressive messaging in the current climate 85:37 - Challenges of complex messaging versus simple narratives in social change efforts Reading https://www.men4dem.eu/science/output/democratic-masculinites-best-practises-report-expert-organisations-interventions-and-key-mechanisms

  2. Jul 31

    Resisting Backlash

    This discussion explores the complex landscape of backlash against gender equality, the role of neoliberalism, religious influences, and strategies for effective engagement and change. Participants share diverse perspectives from different regions, emphasizing the importance of understanding historical, cultural, and class dimensions. Key topics The history and evolution of backlash against gender equalityThe influence of neoliberalism on men's and women's rolesThe role of religion and culture in shaping gender narrativesStrategies for unifying diverse social movementsThe importance of intersectionality in understanding gender issuesThe impact of online spaces and anonymity on backlash movementsThe role of leadership and political influence in shaping gender discoursePractical approaches for engaging men and boys in gender justiceThe importance of listening, empathy, and tolerance in activismThe challenge of communicating complex issues simply and effectively Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the discussion group and its purpose 01:26 Participants introduce themselves and their backgrounds 07:16 Review of the MenEngage Alliance report on backlash 08:19 Personal and institutional experiences of backlash 12:12 Historical perspective on backlash and gender roles 14:18 The role of neoliberalism and economic change 21:05 The ongoing crisis of masculinity 22:58 The influence of online anonymity and political gain 28:05 The narrative of men feeling left behind 31:20 The success of anti-gender movements and cultural narratives 37:32 Building alliances and unified strategies in social movements 45:09 The importance of addressing root causes versus symptoms 47:48 Solutions and positive narratives for gender justice 01:08:12 The role of leadership and political engagement 01:21:11 Closing remarks and future directions Resources https://menengage.org/resources/resisting-backlash-ways-forward-for-menengage-alliance

  • 2 Episodes

About

Masculinity is supposedly in crisis. Is it? What does that mean to you and for the world? Welcome to Discussing Men, a podcast dedicated to exploring modern masculinities, men's mental health, and the rapidly shifting cultural landscape. Hosted by philosopher Dr. Simon Fokt and activist Aleks Dimitrijevic, this show moves beyond surface-level answers to investigate the real challenges men face today, from navigating stressful work environments and relationships to experiencing the profound identity shifts of fatherhood. We take a deep, analytical look at current global trends, sociological data, and online movements to understand why so many men feel isolated or misunderstood in today's world. We examine how changing economic structures, systemic pressures, and digital algorithms shape modern male identity. Whether you are looking to deepen your professional knowledge, better understand the men in your life, dismantle harmful cultural tropes, or discover positive narratives that foster genuine personal growth and systemic change, this podcast will offer you the nuanced, down-to-earth insights you need.

Information

  • Creator
    PathForge
  • Episodes
    2
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 PathForge
  • Show Website
    Discussing Men