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Young men feel threatened by the women’s movement. So-called alpha males like Andrew Tate ensure approval.
Whether the kissing scandal at the World Cup or the controversy surrounding the book “Oh, Boy” – the discussions about toxic masculinity and macho behavior have been reignited and more relevant than ever. In the last 50 years, there has been progress in terms of equality and women’s rights, and more and more young men perceive the ongoing change as a threat.
Legend:
Lukas “Sia” Kohler, member of the “Die Feministen” association in an interview.
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Self-proclaimed “Alpha Males,” like the controversial internet star Andrew Tate, reach an audience of millions with misogynistic statements like “Women, shut up and make coffee.” Lukas “Sia” Kohler, a member of the “Die Feministen” association, speaks of a backlash: “We are moving backwards when it comes to equality.”
Military service as a structural disadvantage
In fact, young men increasingly believe that equality has largely been achieved. Although the facts and figures show the opposite.
According to the Federal Statistical Office, women in Switzerland still earn 1,500 francs less per month than men – only 52 percent of which can be explained by objective factors such as professional status or years of service. The remaining 48 percent is potential wage discrimination based on gender.
As a counter-argument, reactionary circles argue that military service places men at a structural disadvantage. Markus Theunert, an expert on men and gender issues, confirms: “The unilateral compulsory military service for men is clearly discrimination based on gender and cannot be brought into line with the Swiss constitution.”
Legend:
Markus Theunert, an expert on men and gender issues, classifies.
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But Theunert also adds: “These structural inequalities cannot be weighed against each other.” The aim should be that neither women nor men are victims of such discrimination.
The role of the breadwinner
Men’s identity crisis can also be explained by women’s financial independence. Feminist Lukas “Sia” Kohler sees the new, diverse role models as an opportunity.
The fact that the man no longer necessarily has to fulfill the task of breadwinner could certainly be seen as a relief and an advantage: “This makes it easier to spend more time with your children and build a loving, tender bond. That’s more fulfilling than working at high percentages.”
Misogyny as a model for success
Andrew Tate, the self-proclaimed king of toxic masculinity, fights against modern role models on his channels and, from the perspective of many like-minded people, promotes male empowerment: “Take life into your own hands, be a real man!”
Although his videos are primarily about physical self-optimization and financial independence, there is always misogyny and a misogynistic worldview.
Teens worldwide love Tate’s performances and messages. The fact that the police are investigating him for rape and human trafficking does not affect his success. On the contrary. The misogynist is one of the most googled people on the internet and remains a desirable role model for many young men.