Liberal Author Challenges Notion of Toxic Masculinity on The View

A liberal guest on a recent episode of The View sparked a discussion around the controversial concept of toxic masculinity. Scott Galloway, a New York University business professor and author, defended the idea of embracing healthy masculinity during his appearance.

Co-host Sara Haines initiated the conversation by referencing Galloway’s latest book, Notes on Being a Man. In it, Galloway advocates for men to adopt an affirmative view of their masculinity. The discussion was set against the backdrop of heightened cultural scrutiny regarding masculinity, illustrated by programs such as a new Netflix show titled Adolescence. Democratic governors, including Michigan’s Gretchen Whitmer and Maryland’s Wes Moore, have also rolled out initiatives aimed at supporting young men in their states.

Highlighting Mental Health and Societal Pressures

Galloway noted alarming statistics indicating that men are disproportionately affected by issues such as mental health crises, addiction, and incarceration. He emphasized that young men need positive role models to navigate their identities and lives. According to him, the current depiction of masculinity often fails to provide this necessary guidance.

“For young men, I like the idea of restoring an aspirational vision of masculinity that can serve as a code,” Galloway explained. He underscored the importance of nurturing both feminine and masculine traits when they feel authentic.

The Three Pillars of Healthy Masculinity

During the discussion, Galloway outlined what he identifies as the essential pillars of healthy masculinity. He stated that every man should embrace the roles of provider, pursuer, and protector. This framework, he believes, can help redefine what it means to be a man in today’s society.

Statistics shared by Galloway highlighted that 51% of young men have never asked a woman out in person, despite most women expecting men to take the initiative in romantic relationships. He addressed a critical issue: many men have not met the societal expectation to protect women.

“From an early age, we have to teach our boys that the transition to manhood means your default operating system is protection,” he asserted.

Embracing Masculinity in Modern Society

Galloway also made a compelling point about standing up for marginalized communities, citing the transgender community as an example. He stated that true masculinity should involve defending those who are often demonized in society.

“There is nothing wrong with masculinity. It is a wonderful guidepost,” he remarked. He encouraged men to redefine their roles and contributions to society: “You add surplus value. You create more tax revenue than you absorb.”

He continued, “You protect people. You witness their lives. You register more complaints than you actually complain. If you leave this Earth having given more than you’ve taken, then you leave this world as a man. That is what it means to be a man.”

The Response from Co-Hosts

Whoopi Goldberg, one of the co-hosts, praised Galloway’s perspective afterward, succinctly summarizing his arguments. “You don’t have to be Popeye, you know, but you got to be present,” she stated, reflecting on the need for engagement in relationships.

Galloway further expanded the definition of masculinity by stating that qualities associated with masculinity are not limited to men. “Masculinity is not sequestered to people born as men. There are wonderful women who demonstrate wonderful masculinity,” he noted. He pointed out that nurturing traits in men should be celebrated.

The Balance of Femininity and Masculinity

While advocating for the appreciation of masculine attributes, Galloway asserted that femininity deserves its own recognition. However, he argued that society has largely overlooked the contributions men make.

“Let’s also celebrate our young men,” he urged. “Being risk-aggressive, wanting to be fit so you can protect and provide—those are wonderful things. Let’s stop pathologizing it.” He emphasized the need to find a balance between celebrating femininity and masculinity in modern society.

Steering Clear of Toxic Labels

Galloway concluded with a strong statement renouncing the idea of toxic masculinity. “There is no such thing as toxic masculinity,” he declared. “There is cruelty, there is criminal behavior, there’s abuse of power. But if you do any of those things, you are not masculine. That is anti-masculine.”

He critiqued the political discourse that often conflates masculinity with negative traits, urging a shift in the narrative surrounding what it means to be a man in today’s world.