Raewyn Connell (1995) developed the concept of hegemonic masculinity to explain how certain forms of masculinity become dominant in society. The idea comes from a feminist and critical perspective, focusing on how gender roles are socially constructed and linked to power.

What is Hegemonic Masculinity?

• Hegemony means dominance – the way one group maintains power over others by making its values seem “normal” or “common sense.”
• Hegemonic masculinity refers to the culturally dominant idea of what it means to be a “real man.”
• It is associated with traits like toughness, heterosexuality, authority, aggression, competitiveness, and being the breadwinner.

Why is it Important?

• It sets the standard against which other men are judged. Men are encouraged to live up to it, even if most cannot fully achieve it.
• It legitimises male dominance over women (patriarchy) and also over other, “subordinate” masculinities.

Different Types of Masculinity (Connell’s Typology)

Connell identified that there isn’t just one type of masculinity:

1. Hegemonic masculinity – the dominant, culturally valued ideal (e.g. strong, successful, heterosexual male).
2. Complicit masculinity – men who don’t fully fit the ideal but still benefit from the dominance of men over women.
3. Subordinate masculinity – associated with men who are oppressed by hegemonic masculinity (e.g. gay men).
4. Marginalised masculinity – men who may be disadvantaged by other structures (like class or ethnicity) but can still adopt some aspects of masculinity.

Criticisms of the Concept

• Some argue Connell overemphasises the dominance of hegemonic masculinity when men’s experiences are very diverse.
• Postmodernists suggest that in today’s world, there is more fluidity in gender identities and no single “hegemonic” form.
• However, many sociologists still find Connell’s framework useful to explain inequalities in gender relations, workplaces, education, and the media.

Why It Matters in Sociology

Hegemonic masculinity helps us understand:

• Why boys may feel pressure to act “tough” at school.
• How media representations often promote aggressive, successful, heterosexual male heroes.
• Why gender inequality persists – because dominant ideas about masculinity maintain patriarchy and restrict both men’s and women’s behaviour.

You can download a PPT on Connell’s work by clicking on the link below.

There is also a handout with discussion questions for you to download below: