Are young men in the midst of a crisis?

Are voices like Jordan Peterson, Joe Rogan, Andrew Tate dangerous?

My recent guest Evan Solomon wrote a piece titled Elon Musk and the Political Power of Young Men.

Him and I delve into a topic that has been gaining increasing attention: the crisis of young men in contemporary society. This discussion was particularly timely, as we are witnessing profound shifts in cultural, economic, and political landscapes, all of which are impacting young men in ways that are both complex and concerning.

Evan and I began by exploring the concept of masculinity and how it is being reshaped in today's world. The traditional roles and expectations that once defined what it meant to be a man are rapidly changing, leaving many young men feeling uncertain about their place in society. This uncertainty is compounded by the growing influence of figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump, who, as Evan pointed out, have become symbolic in the discourse surrounding masculinity.

One of the key points Evan raised was how young men are increasingly drawn to figures who embody a kind of hyper-masculinity, as seen in the popularity of individuals like Jordan Peterson, Joe Rogan, and even controversial figures like Andrew Tate. These figures resonate with many young men because they offer a sense of direction and purpose in a world that often feels directionless. However, this can also lead to the adoption of more extreme views, particularly when these figures espouse divisive or harmful rhetoric.

The discussion also touched on the role of the internet and social media in shaping the identities of young men. Evan highlighted the fact that many young men are finding their sense of community and belonging online, often in spaces that can be echo chambers for anger, resentment, and radicalization. This, coupled with the decline of traditional institutions like the church, has left a vacuum that is being filled by these online communities, for better or worse.

Evan and I also addressed the economic factors contributing to this crisis. Many young men are facing unprecedented challenges in the job market, with the erosion of stable, well-paying jobs that once provided a clear pathway to adulthood. The gig economy, automation, and global competition have all played a role in destabilizing the traditional career paths that previous generations could rely on. This economic uncertainty is fueling a sense of disillusionment and frustration among young men, which can manifest in various negative ways, including increased rates of mental health issues, substance abuse, and even violence.

Perhaps one of the most striking parts of our conversation was when we discussed the political implications of this crisis. Evan pointed out that young men have become a key demographic for political movements that capitalize on their discontent. The rhetoric of these movements often centers on themes of victimhood and blame, which can be very appealing to those who feel left behind by society. This is evident in the growing support for populist and authoritarian leaders, who promise to restore a sense of order and purpose in a chaotic world.

As our discussion drew to a close, Evan and I both agreed that addressing the crisis of young men requires a multifaceted approach. It is not enough to simply critique the figures they are drawn to or the ideologies they may adopt.

Instead, we need to offer positive alternatives that provide young men with a sense of purpose, community, and hope. This includes creating opportunities for meaningful work, fostering healthy forms of masculinity, and ensuring that young men have access to the support they need to navigate the challenges of modern life.

The conversation with Evan Solomon on the Bigger Than Me Podcast was a sobering reminder of the urgent need to address the crisis facing young men today. It is a complex issue with far-reaching implications for our society, but it is one that we must confront if we are to build a future where all individuals, regardless of gender, can thrive.