Curtis Sliwa argues that true masculinity isn't defined by symbols of power like guns but by a commitment to protecting the vulnerable—the poor, elderly, and infirm. He frames it as a moral responsibility to risk one's life for strangers, a form of humanitarian service that stands in stark contrast to conventional notions of strength.

Humans have a natural inclination towards tribalism, which can be destructive. Sports provides a safe and contained framework for these instincts, allowing people to channel their 'us vs. them' mentality into a game with low real-world stakes, fostering community without causing actual harm.

In schools with a formal curriculum for emotional intelligence, teenage boys don't adhere to stereotypes that equate vulnerability with weakness. They openly discuss feelings and don't ridicule crying, demonstrating that restrictive gender norms are learned and can be replaced with healthier behaviors through systemic education.

Many young men lack a guiding code for life. A positive, aspirational form of masculinity—focused on being a provider, protector, and procreator—can offer a framework for making better daily decisions.

The highest expression of masculinity is not simply achieving strength—be it economic, physical, or intellectual. It is about leveraging that strength to protect and uplift others. Using power to demean or belittle, as in sexism, is a failure of masculinity, not a feature of it.

During the Me Too movement, GQ's editor identified that while the culture was demanding men change, it wasn't articulating a positive path forward. GQ's strategy was to provide constructive guidance on how men could evolve, filling a crucial gap in the conversation and demonstrating brand leadership on a sensitive topic.

Senator Cory Booker defines masculinity not by displays of perfection or dominance, which he calls "weakness," but by the quiet devotion of a team player. He equates it to the athlete who shows up first, supports others, and focuses on the team's success over personal acclaim.

When advising young men, Newsom reframes masculinity away from dominance. He teaches his sons that true manhood lies in empathy and actively protecting those being bullied or ostracized. He believes having the back of the person being chastised is the ultimate sign of leadership and strength.

A proposed framework for manhood is choosing to optimize for service over attention. Seeking attention provides a fleeting 'dopamine hit' that ultimately evaporates. In contrast, a life of service—adding more value than you take—compounds over a lifetime to build a meaningful legacy.