The Industrial Revolution has had a profound impact on modern masculinity, both positively and negatively.
Men's life were comparatively easy before machines and assembly lines were widely used. They were either highly talented artisans or agricultural owners most of the time. The man's art has a strong familial component. He maintained tight ties with all of his neighbors, his wife managed the household, and his sons worked as apprentices under him.
This was altered by the Industrial Revolution.
For the first time in history, large numbers of men were taken from their homes to work in factories and oversee the arrival of new machinery.
Fathers were not spending time with their kids anymore or discussed their job with their loved ones. They turned into walking ATMs that would go to factories (often over great distances), come home exhausted, and then wake up to repeat the whole process.
The Industrial Man had a quiet strength that is uncommon in today's world, but he also had flaws that kept him from reaching his full potential.
The Industrial Man's Power
This era's men were born with a feeling of duty and decency. Their approach was straightforward: Complete the task on schedule, each and every time. These men served as society's workhorses. They welcomed the struggle necessary to support their family and weren't afraid to get their hands filthy.
Additionally, this was an advantageous thing. The unheard-of riches and opportunity we enjoy today are a result of their blood, sweat, and tears. But we ignore them, failing to see the goodness in what they do.
It is a lost drive on the part of society. Overindulgence is commonplace. When things aren't going our way, we usually resort to moaning and complaining. We've seen a "pussification" of the manly spirit as things have gotten more and more comfortable. Guys don't want to work anymore. They desire to be given life on a silver platter.
We may take a step towards restoring healthy masculinity and being authentic men by adopting the work ethic of the Industrial Man, along with the other characteristics I will be addressing in this piece our planet requires.
The Industrial Man's Weakness
The Industrial Man's work ethic was one of his greatest faults, although being admirable and giving him a quiet power.
The following comment from well-known business guru Peter Druker perfectly captures this weakness:
There's nothing more pointless than putting efficiency above common sense.
The Industrial Man did not question the existing order. He didn't look into other choices or try to find better ways to make money. Yes, he was efficient. He excelled at his role. but neglected to understand that working hard is not a virtue in and of itself. He was impoverished and confined to a wage cycle that virtually prevented him from leading a happy life.
The Industrial Man was overly appreciative, accepting a life of monotony as an assembly line worker and unwilling to see the harsh reality of factory life.
When asked "How to be a man," he said, "Work harder." That concluded things.
"Real men" should never grow complacent about the possibilities that have been given to them, even if they should always be grateful for them. Be thankful but dissatisfied rather than thinking, "Wow, I'm lucky to have a job at all, I'm just going to grin and bear it." While you should be appreciative of your opportunity, you shouldn't accept the first item that comes your way. Be prepared to question the current quo and pursue your own goals rather than just those of others.
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