Mark Zuckerberg’s recent comments about the need for more “masculine energy” in the corporate world have sparked controversy. In a three-hour interview on Joe Rogan’s podcast, the Meta CEO said that large companies need more aggression and that the business world is becoming “culturally neutered.”
Many commentators have accused Zuckerberg of promoting toxic masculinity. This term describes male traits that foster domination, devaluation of women, homophobia, and violence.
However, some argue that Zuckerberg’s views reflect a broader cultural norm of patriarchy. In a patriarchal society, men’s power over women is embedded in the systems they have built and thrive in. Even if only a few men are in charge, all men benefit from this unequal treatment.
This is known as patriarchal dividends. Patriarchy has a long history, with ideas about gender differences becoming more pronounced as men fought wars for domination. These norms, perpetuated from birth, can harm both men and women.
They communicate that boys must be aggressive and cannot share emotions.
Zuckerberg’s masculinity comments spark debate
They also make things harder for those who challenge traditional gender and sexuality norms.
By saying that companies need more “masculine energy,” Zuckerberg sends a message that women are not welcome. This is despite the fact that Meta made a significant profit in 2024. The fear of losing privileged positions is evident in recent political trends, such as the election of Donald Trump in the US and the rise of self-proclaimed misogynist Andrew Tate in the UK.
A survey of young people in the UK found that 45% of male respondents felt that efforts to promote women’s equality have led to discrimination against men. However, it is not about getting rid of masculinity altogether. Instead, it is about recognizing that masculinity can encompass traits other than aggression and domination.
A rigid view of “masculine energy” can be harmful to men as well, leading to emotional suppression, burnout, and bullying. In a world where the concept of masculinity is evolving, promoting aggression and exclusionary practices is not the way forward. Broadening our understanding of masculinity can benefit everyone, regardless of gender.
