The Macho Paradox: Why Some Men Hurt Women and How All Men Can Help

Educator and activist Jackson Katz uses his latest book, The Macho Paradox, to examine the cultural influences that develop concepts of masculinity and the reality that men’s violence against women is not a women’s issue, but rather a men’s issue.

Katz advocates for women as victims of men’s violence, but suggests the root of that violence lies within the constructs that shape the conception of what it means to be male—or macho—in America in the 21st century. He points to pornography designed as an industry that suggests men aren’t capable of relationships and insists men not take personally women’s stories of victimization. However, while the book champions believing women, it is not a book about women. It is a book about the need for men to see their own roles in the continuous misogyny and sexism that results in 83% of school age girls reporting they have experienced some form of sexual harassment.

With The Macho Paradox, Katz has issued a men’s call to action. He suggests men can be freed from the constraints of traditionally narrow and painful gender roles that repress men’s tenderness and favor aggression. Through his co-founded strategy, Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP), he works to “engage and inspire men and young men” in the process of ending sexual assault.

Katz’s book is a must read for anyone interested in making effective and definitive change in the era of #MeToo, Brett Kavanaugh, and #TimesUp.