From Playboy to Jay-Z, the racial origins of toxic masculinity and its impact on women, especially Black and “insufficiently white” women
More men than ever are refusing loving partnerships and commitment, and instead seeking out “situationships.” When these men deign to articulate what they are looking for in a steady partner, they’ll often rely on superficial norms of attractiveness rooted in whiteness and anti-Blackness.
Connecting the past to the present, sociologist Sabrina Strings argues that following the Civil Rights movement and the integration of women during the Second Wave Feminist movement, men aimed to hold on to their power by withholding love and commitment, a basic tenet of white supremacy and male domination, that served to manipulate all women. From pornography to hip hop, women—especially Black and “insufficiently white” women—were presented as gold diggers, props for masturbation, and side-pieces.
Using historical research, personal stories, and critical analysis, Strings argues that the result is fuccboism, the latest incarnation of toxic masculinity. This work shows that men are not innately “toxic.” Nor do they hate love, commitment, or sex. Instead, men across race have been working a new code to effectively deny loving partnerships to women who are not pliant, slim, and white as a new mode of male domination.
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Refreshing and relatable, Strings displays vulnerability in a way that Black and ‘insufficiently white’ women will feel so seen. This book is a crucial read no matter your age, race, or gender, as it makes sense of the difficulties of today’s dating and romantic culture that many are struggling with. The End of Love just may be the key in helping us abolish the racist and sexist ideals of romance, empower ourselves to redefine what modern romance is, and give rebirth to love. Strings has outdone herself. I could not stop taking notes while reading and will be recommending this book to all of my clients!
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Dr. Taylor Nolan, clinical sexologist, licensed psychotherapist, and host of Let’s Talk About It podcast