Horizon Season 1979 Episode 12 The Fight to Be Male

The Fight to Be Male is an episode of the popular BBC science documentary series, Horizon, which explores the complex issue of gender and the role it plays in shaping our identities and experiences. In this episode, the focus is on the male gender, and the societal expectations and pressures that come with it.

At the heart of the programme is the question of what it means to be male in the late 1970s. With the feminist movement gaining momentum and challenging traditional gender roles, many men were feeling confused and uncertain about their place in the world. The programme aims to shed light on this issue by examining the experiences of several men from different walks of life.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to a group of men who are participating in a weekend workshop designed to help them explore their emotions and connect with their masculinity. Through a combination of group discussions, physical exercises, and role-playing activities, the men are encouraged to open up about their fears, doubts, and insecurities.

As the workshop progresses, the men begin to share some of their most intimate thoughts and feelings. Some admit to feeling emasculated by their wives or partners, while others express frustration at being trapped in traditional gender roles that don't reflect who they truly are. One man talks about his struggle to reconcile his love of dance with the idea that it's not a masculine pursuit, while another discusses the pressure he feels to conform to society's narrow definition of what it means to be a man.

Throughout the programme, viewers are also introduced to experts in the field of gender studies who offer insights into the societal, cultural, and historical factors that have shaped our understanding of masculinity. These experts discuss how the idea of the "macho man" has been perpetuated by mainstream media and Hollywood movies, and how it's often associated with aggression, dominance, and emotional repression.

The experts also touch on how masculinity is linked to power and privilege, and how this can be a source of conflict and tension between men and women. They discuss the ways in which men have historically held positions of power in society, and how this has led to a sense of entitlement and a reluctance to share that power with women.

Ultimately, the programme offers a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of the complex issues surrounding the male gender in the late 1970s. By bringing together personal stories, expert opinions, and historical perspectives, it sheds light on the pressures and expectations faced by men, and the ways in which these can shape our identities and experiences. It's a compelling and insightful piece of television that remains relevant today, offering a valuable tool for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of gender and identity in our society.