Masculine Characteristics Are Essential to Battlefield Success and National Security

  • In the military, lethality—the capability and capacity to destroy—determines the likelihood of success.
  • Historically, it has been men who have waged war. Therefore, it is unsurprising that the traditional characteristics of men—physical toughness, aggression, dominance, and stoicism—are viewed as essential to battlefield success and, ultimately, to maintaining national security.

There Are Psychological Foundations to Masculine Traits in Warfare

  • The link between men, masculinity, and combat effectiveness, particularly in terms of aggression and lethality, is not just a historical observation but a psychological and physiological one. 
  • Controlled aggression is an essential trait for battlefield success, with psychological studies of combat performance demonstrating that when aggression is properly channeled, it enhances a soldier’s ability to engage decisively with the enemy. This trait, often more pronounced in men, provides a strategic advantage crucial for mission success in hostile environments.
  • Due to biological and social conditioning, men typically exhibit a heightened propensity for direct confrontation, which aligns with the operational needs of combat. 

How to Reaffirm Masculinity for Military Readiness

  • To restore and maintain military lethality, the U.S. military must reaffirm the importance of masculinity within its training, culture, and operational standards. 
  • Reinforce masculine warrior culture: revitalize aggression-based training, promote stoicism and resilience, and encourage fraternal bonding.
  • Maintain high physical standards: combat roles must prioritize lethality and resist political pressures to lower standards.
  • Reframe military masculinity as a strength, not a problem: combat stereotypes against masculinity and restore the warrior ethos.

Click HERE to read the policy focus and learn more about the role of masculinity in the military.