Scott Galloway, the tech entrepreneur and podcaster, has emerged as a prominent voice in the ongoing discussion around masculinity. His recent book, “Notes on Being a Man,” has sparked widespread interest, racing to the top of the New York Times advice book bestseller list.
Galloway, a self-described “progressive Jordan Peterson,” offers a refreshingly candid perspective on the challenges facing young men in today’s society. Drawing on research and his own personal experiences, he paints a sobering picture of the rising rates of school suspensions, unemployment, addiction, and college dropout among young men.
Contrary to the typical “alpha-bro” narratives, Galloway’s approach is marked by its sensitivity and nuance. He readily admits that he doesn’t have all the answers, acknowledging that the “masculinity code for gay men” is beyond his expertise. Instead, he focuses on sharing his own journey, including the impact of his father’s abandonment and the importance of letting go of “score cards” in relationships.
Galloway’s solutions often revolve around economic security and romantic relationships, with maxims like “men protect, provide, and procreate.” While some may find these views old-fashioned, he argues that they are rooted in research on what women find attractive. Galloway is quick to clarify that he is not blaming women or advocating for a return to a patriarchal order, but rather believes that men need to “level up” and that society as a whole needs to implement more programs to support young people.
One of Galloway’s most striking traits is his willingness to embrace vulnerability. He has openly discussed his struggles with emotional expression, including a moving moment on his “Pivot” podcast where he wept while discussing his father’s recent passing. Galloway believes that in today’s society, where “people are not going to kill you because you cry,” it is crucial for men to feel empowered to express their emotions.
As Galloway prepares to return to the United States, he is determined to play a role in shaping the political landscape. He aims to build a Democrat-friendly podcast network and work with various candidates, driven by a desire to “make America America again.” In his view, the current leadership, exemplified by figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk, represents a distortion of true masculinity, one marked by “coarseness and cruelty.”
Galloway’s approach, though not without its critics, offers a refreshing and thought-provoking perspective on the challenges facing men in the modern era. By blending data-driven analysis with personal introspection, he challenges the traditional notions of masculinity and advocates for a more holistic understanding of the issues at hand.