Ideologies of the Stereotypical Man

http://www.nydailynews.com/lifestyle/2009/12/09/2009-12-09_new_dockers_ad_campaign_for_soft_khakis_brings_charges_of_sexism_over_.html

The new Docker's Ad Campaign is an interesting example of current ideologies of what and who a male is expected to be. Since in the past the common ideology of a man is someone who is masculine, strong, stable, and even physically able the recent trend in men becoming supposedly weaker, more sensitive and even fragile has become upsetting and surprising, but even refreshing to other people. This Docker's advertisement argues that men should revert back to what they were originally expected to stand for. They should "man-up" and "wear the pants". Many women agree with this advertisement, and are upset with the way some men have slowly become less capable of chivalry and dependability and more interested in their looks and clothing. Other females think it is positive that the ideologies of what a man is are shifting, and it's refreshing to see sensitive men or ones who are interested in eating healthfully (hence the salad bar and non fat latte references in the advertisement). Ultimately, however, Docker's is going to create many situations for discussion regarding this topic. People have obviously noticed this trend of men becoming less "masculine" (especially people living in urban areas), however, the question is does it really matter? I was especially hit by this trend of men once I came to NYC. Where I live at home in Vermont the ideologies for men are still what they used to be years ago. In urban areas, however, I think what is exceptable for men has shifted immensely. This shift can ultimately create a more comfortable and healthy atmosphere for both men and women. If different personalities and types of men feel as though they can be comfortable with who they are and act how they feel, this new trend can only be a good one. Yes, it is frustrating sometimes when the men around you care more about their low-fat food than you do or their pants are tighter than yours, however, does it really matter? People should dress and eat and act how they feel and if each individual person is happy with who they are then it should not matter to others around them.