The Uncomfortable Truth: Why Men Need to Read 'Will to Change' by Bell Hooks.

“Men are often reluctant to admit that we are creatures of patriarchy, because admitting it would mean that we have to change.”

- Bell Hooks

In a world where the concept of masculinity is defined by power, domination, and control, Bell Hooks' "Will to Change" provides a much-needed wake-up call for men. Through her insightful analysis, she exposes how the patriarchal system not only oppresses women but also affects men in numerous ways. She challenges men to examine their roles in perpetuating and sustaining a system that ultimately harms them as well. In this positivist book review, I aim to demonstrate why men should read "Will to Change" and how it can change their perspective on gender, relationships, and society as a whole.

Bell Hooks is a renowned feminist writer and cultural critic who has dedicated her life to fighting for social justice. Her book, "Will to Change: Men, Masculinity, and Love," is a powerful critique of the patriarchal system and its impact on men. She argues that traditional masculinity is a destructive force that harms both men and women. She challenges the notion that men are naturally aggressive and competitive, and shows how this idea is used to justify violence and domination. By unpacking the damaging effects of toxic masculinity, hooks provides a roadmap for creating a healthier and more just society.

One of the key themes of "Will to Change" is the idea that the patriarchal system not only oppresses women but also harms men. Hooks argues that men are socialised to be emotionally repressed and to deny vulnerability. This leads to a host of problems, including difficulty forming intimate relationships, depression, and violence. By examining the ways that traditional gender roles limit men's ability to express themselves, hooks encourages men to break free from these restrictive norms and embrace their full humanity.

Another important theme of "Will to Change" is the need for emotional intimacy in our lives. Hooks argues that men have been taught to view emotions as weak and unmanly, which has led to a culture of emotional detachment. This, in turn, has led to a profound sense of isolation and loneliness for many men. By encouraging men to be more emotionally open and vulnerable, hooks suggests that we can create deeper and more fulfilling relationships with others.

Hooks also emphasises the importance of authentic communication in our relationships. She argues that traditional gender roles often lead to dishonesty and deceit, as men feel pressure to appear strong and in control. This can lead to a breakdown in communication and trust, which can ultimately harm our relationships. By encouraging men to be honest and vulnerable in their communication, hooks suggests that we can build deeper and more meaningful connections with others.

Another key theme of "Will to Change" is the importance of men's involvement in the feminist movement. Hooks argues that men have a responsibility to challenge the patriarchal system and to work towards gender equality. She emphasizes that men's liberation is intimately connected to women's liberation, and that we cannot achieve true equality without men's active participation in the struggle. By examining the ways that men can be allies in the fight for social justice, hooks provides a roadmap for creating a more just and equitable society.

Bell Hooks' "Will to Change" is a powerful and insightful book that challenges men to examine their roles in perpetuating the patriarchal system. By exposing the harms of toxic masculinity, hooks encourages men to embrace their full humanity and to build deeper, more authentic relationships. She also emphasizes the importance of men's involvement in the feminist movement and the need to work towards a more just and equitable society.

As men, it's uncomfortable to acknowledge the ways that we've contributed to a system that harms ourselves and others. But it's precisely this discomfort that makes "Will to Change" a crucial and transformative read. It's an uncomfortable truth, but one that we need to confront if we hope to create a better world for ourselves and those around us.

So, I urge you to go and read "Will to Change" now. It may challenge you, it may make you feel uncomfortable, but it will also inspire you to become a better, more authentic version of yourself. Let's work together to create a world that's built on love, respect, and equality.