It's a myth, invented by those wishing to impose control. Those who don't even follow their own rules. The popular view is that traditional masculinity is dying out. This movie reflects the male angst so widespread these days. Again, it raises some intriguing points.
Life is a competition.
Survival of the fittest. We're all competing on some level - even a minimalist one. All trying to be number one. In this day and age, competition has only intensified. It's a commercial world, and so many people are biting the hook.