Beyond inclusive masculinity: masculinity studies and global patriarchy in the 21st century

A key paradigm in studies of men and masculinity has been Anderson’s Inclusive Masculinity Theory (IMT). The theory has proved controversial, but it maintains an arguably hegemonic position within the field. This intervention levels critiques at IMT based on its most recent revision and refinement. Reflecting on the seismic political changes that have occurred within the UK, US and Europe, and the legacies of neoliberalism, I attempt to situate the theory in terms of its liberal discourse, critiquing its argued deployment of homonationalism. I go on to critique the absences of trans* people in the work, and the theorists’ evasion of the question of violence in relation to men and masculinity. I then discuss the political deployment of masculinity online, and reflect on challenges that these new threats to democracy bring on the future for gender equality, which I argue is under threat like never before.