An Introduction to Masculinities
"I have taught this subject area for several years and have always been frustrated by the lack a text that would give students an understanding of the basic, but difficult for undergraduates to grasp, concepts of the field of masculinities. What happens is that the materials available tend to fall back on simplistic gender research that has ‘pop’ attraction, but doesn't really expand the student's critical capacities. The style of presentation, the assumption of student's need for non-abstract language, illustrations and analogies present in this book shows an acute concern for and understanding of the student's prospect of learning here."–George Muedeking, California State University, Stanislaus"This is the book that I’ve been waiting for someone to write! Kahn integrates theory and research from the social sciences into a coherent account of the diverse meanings of ‘masculinities'. Most books on men’s studies are either highly focused on a particular analytic framework, or provide broad surveys with little theoretical depth. Kahn identifies the major paradigms through which masculinities can be conceptualized. As a result, readers will gain a 'meta' awareness of how men’s lives are being constructed and analyzed, both by professionals and lay people in everyday life. This book is truly an accomplishment."–Michael Addis,Clark University"An Introduction to Masculinitiesis a comprehensive overview of a wide range of perspectives on masculinities. It provides students with an excellent road map to guide them through important theories and issues in a complex field." –Dr. Harry Brod, Professor of Philosophy and Humanities, Department of Philosophy and World Religions, University of Northern Iowa"I have just finished reading Dr. Kahn's new bookAn Introduction to Masculinitiesand am extremely impressed by the quality of the work. A high quality introductory text on masculinity is much needed and long overdue. The many important concepts to which the student is introduced are clearly explained in a writing style that is both engaging and personal. This is the book we have been waiting for."–Ellyn Kaschak, Professor of Psychology, Author ofEngendered Livesand Editor,Journal of Women and Therapy"Dr Kahn has written a clear, wide-ranging and thoughtful introduction to contemporary issues and research about masculinities. Students and teachers will find this a valuable guide to complex and important problems."–Raewyn Connell, University of Sydney, Author ofMasculinities''I am grateful to Jack Kahn for this careful, compendious, well-researched yet reader-friendly book. As a teacher, Kahn is skilled at explaining complex gender ideas and connecting them with our daily experiences and feelings. All students will find a lot to interest them here."–Peggy McIntosh, Ph.D., Associate Director, Wellesley Centers for Women, Wellesley College"Kahn makes a unique and valuable contribution to the fields of masculinities and gender studies. Speaking to students with a masterful blend of personal and academic writing, he makes the social and psychological complexities of these issues accessible in an introductory text."–Dr. Steven Botkin, Executive Director, Men's Resources International