In Minneapolis, two forms of masculinity faced off on Nicollet Avenue. One was rooted in fear and aggression, the other in empathy and care. The latter embodied the ideals of chivalry once held by medieval knights – generosity, courtesy, honesty, and a commitment to granting mercy to one's adversary.
However, it's difficult to reconcile this notion of masculinity with the actions of some far-right figures who are quick to brand nonviolence as "weakness." In contrast, Alex Pretti, the 32-year-old man who died protecting another protester from federal immigration agents on January 24th, exemplified a more nuanced and courageous form of manhood.
Pretti's decision to place himself between his friend and the agents was an act of care rather than violence. By doing so, he denied authorities an excuse for repression. This example resonates with the French philosopher Anne Dufourmantelle's idea that risking one's life is not about personal sacrifice but rather about realizing that our lives are "absolutely singular and nevertheless not [ours]". Pretti's actions were a testament to this idea.
What drives men to turn towards far-right ideologies, peddling fake versions of masculinity? Often it is the lack of alternative narratives. In his book Generation Desperation, Hurst argues that these atomized young men are searching for respect and being seen. In contrast, those who grew up in communities like the Catholic Worker House, where open doors and open hearts were valued, understood what it meant to be powerful in a different way.
The article emphasizes the importance of teaching young men empathy as a precursor to courage in the face of adversity. The story of Alex Pretti shows us that this is not an easy or passive commitment but rather one that requires time and effort. As we strive to redefine masculinity, we must do so with care and compassion at its core.
However, it's difficult to reconcile this notion of masculinity with the actions of some far-right figures who are quick to brand nonviolence as "weakness." In contrast, Alex Pretti, the 32-year-old man who died protecting another protester from federal immigration agents on January 24th, exemplified a more nuanced and courageous form of manhood.
Pretti's decision to place himself between his friend and the agents was an act of care rather than violence. By doing so, he denied authorities an excuse for repression. This example resonates with the French philosopher Anne Dufourmantelle's idea that risking one's life is not about personal sacrifice but rather about realizing that our lives are "absolutely singular and nevertheless not [ours]". Pretti's actions were a testament to this idea.
What drives men to turn towards far-right ideologies, peddling fake versions of masculinity? Often it is the lack of alternative narratives. In his book Generation Desperation, Hurst argues that these atomized young men are searching for respect and being seen. In contrast, those who grew up in communities like the Catholic Worker House, where open doors and open hearts were valued, understood what it meant to be powerful in a different way.
The article emphasizes the importance of teaching young men empathy as a precursor to courage in the face of adversity. The story of Alex Pretti shows us that this is not an easy or passive commitment but rather one that requires time and effort. As we strive to redefine masculinity, we must do so with care and compassion at its core.
... it's like these groups are trying to rebrand 'tough' or 'manly' but honestly it just comes off as sad and misguided 
. Like, who thought that being all aggressive and scared was a good look for guys? 
I mean Alex Pretti's story is just heartbreaking in the way he chose to live his life - it's like he knew what was important more than anyone else did 
.
. And yeah, teaching empathy is key - it's not always easy but if we want to raise decent human beings then we gotta try 
.
two dudes, different kinds of masculine vibes... i don't get why some people think being nonviolent is "weak"... sounds like a total bummer to me 
i mean alex pretti was literally trying to protect his friend and stuff... that takes courage, right? 
but what's with the whole far-right thingy? are they just really unhappy or something? 
it sounds kinda cool, but also kinda outdated? 
I'm so proud of Alex Pretti! He embodied what it means to be a real man - putting others before himself and standing up for what's right, even if it meant risking his own life 
. We need more role models like Alex who show us that being strong doesn't mean suppressing our emotions or hurting others 
. And can we talk about how our society's lack of community spaces and support systems is driving young men to seek validation from the wrong places? 
!
it's all about perspective, you know? some guys are gonna chase power and aggression, but others will choose empathy and care. and honestly, i think we need to start teaching our kids (and ourselves) that being strong means having the courage to be vulnerable and help others. like, what drives people to far-right ideologies? is it just a lack of connection or community? 
What really struck me though is how one guy's bravery can be seen as a game-changer. Like, his decision to put himself between that protester and those agents was literally a matter of life or death 
. It's crazy to think about what might've happened if he hadn't stepped up like that.
... i think its time for us to rethink whats considered "manly" and prioritize kindness over aggression 
. seems like they're trying to prove something to themselves. i mean alex pretti's actions were literally selfless, no need for all that aggression and fear 
. but on the other hand, it can also create echo chambers where people only see things that reinforce their existing views 
. it's not always easy, but if we want to create a more compassionate society, we gotta lead by example 
. It's crazy how far-right ideologies can distort the very idea of masculinity. I mean, what's wrong with being vulnerable and empathetic? My granddad used to tell me that real strength comes from showing you care for others 
But what if we teach them that being strong means taking care of others too? 