An Introduction to Masculinities

"In sum, I found this text to be a highly valuable, nuanced, and comprehensive addition to the men's studies literature, taking its place alongside the previous works of Doyle (3994) and Kilmartin (2007), as well as the narrower psychological analysis of masculinity by Levant and Pollack (1995). I highly recommend it for all readers, particularly those seeking a work embedded with feminist and social constructionist perspectives." (Psychology of Women Quarterly, August 2010)

"This book has many strengths and it fulfils its aim of being a useful introductory text." (Notre Dame European Journal of Women's Studies, 2010)

"The book is definitely a very open discussion and presentation of the field, urging the reader to question all aspects of research. For that reason alone I found it a very useful introduction to research into any discipline - I don't think this book should stop at being recommended to students wishing to explore the theme of masculinities, it would form a good basis into any social sciences research." (Psych-Talk, September 2010)

"Our much-needed and long overdue textbook has arrived. ... This book is more than an introduction to the field; it is a warm invitation to anyone wishing to explore it." (Sex Roles, January 2010)

"[A] timely and a welcome addition for those undergraduate courses that aim to begin a discussion about masculinities. … An excellent option for introductory courses within women's studies, men's studies, psychology, sociology, humanities, and special topics courses. It is thus a welcome tool to those of us who are dedicated to nurturing this fledgling field." (PsycCRITIQUES, January 2010)

"Kahn engagingly introduces biological, psychological and constructionist approaches to different understandings of masculinity, juxtaposing the different perspectives in ways that promote critical thinking." (Psychologist, December 2009)

"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 Masculinities is 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 book An Introduction to Masculinities and 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 of Engendered Lives and 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 of Masculinities

''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