On Male Striving
Male Striving in Modern-Day America: A Comprehensive Approach
Do you want to go along with others? or go on ahead? or go off on your own?...you must know what you want and that you want. Fourth question for the conscience. - Friedrich Nietzsche
I’ve recently been contacted by a handful of young ambitious men regarding their career, family, and overall life trajectory. They ask things like what should I do next? Should I get married? Should I have another child? Should I leave my job? And how do I get in shape? I am both humbled and intrigued that these men have contacted me for these matters. I have given advice throughout my life (mostly solicited) to countless individuals, young and old, male and female. I like to solve puzzles, and helping someone solve one of their puzzles is even more stimulating.
So, I decided to write an essay about what it means to strive and thrive in modern America as a man. I have always appreciated the works of Harvey Mansfield, so I am going to channel my inner Mansfield and for this piece. There are key tenets a man must know and follow to be successful. While, there are many, I will focus on hard work, a loving family, grit, ingenuity, high moral character, and appreciation for high culture, and physical fitness.
Hard Work: The Foundation of Achievement
In the context of Harvey Mansfield's philosophy, hard work is not merely a means to an end but a moral imperative that defines one's character and purpose. In modern-day America, hard work signifies more than just the exertion of effort; it embodies a commitment to excellence and the pursuit of one's potential. It is through laborious endeavors that men cultivate virtues such as discipline, perseverance, and resilience. The rigorous demands of hard work serve as a crucible in which character is forged, distinguishing those who are willing to strive from those who seek the path of least resistance. Mansfield would argue that in an era of instant gratification, the dedication to hard work restores a sense of honor and dignity to the individual, reinforcing the classical virtues that have underpinned Western civilization.
A Loving Family: The Anchor of Stability
Mansfield would emphasize the intrinsic value of the family as the fundamental unit of society. A loving family, in his view, is not merely a source of emotional support but a crucial institution that inculcates virtues and social responsibilities. It is within the family that individuals first learn about love, duty, sacrifice, and loyalty. For men, the role within the family encompasses being a provider, protector, and moral guide. This role is both a privilege and a responsibility, necessitating a balance of authority and compassion. The stability offered by a loving family creates a foundation upon which men can build their lives, providing the strength and motivation needed to face external challenges. Mansfield would argue that the disintegration of the family unit poses a significant threat to societal cohesion and individual fulfillment.
Grit: The Power of Perseverance
Grit, as described by Mansfield, is a manifestation of the classical virtue of fortitude. It is the ability to persist in the face of adversity, driven by a deep-seated commitment to one’s goals and principles. In modern-day America, grit is essential for navigating the complexities and uncertainties of life. It requires an unwavering dedication to one's purpose, even when the odds seem insurmountable. This tenacity is not merely about enduring hardships but about actively confronting and overcoming them with courage and resolve. For Mansfield, grit reflects a man's inner strength and determination, embodying the classical ideal of the virtuous man who remains steadfast in his pursuit of the good.
Ingenuity: The Spark of Innovation
In Mansfield's view, ingenuity is a testament to human creativity and intellectual vigor. It involves the capacity to think independently and innovatively, challenging the status quo and envisioning new possibilities. In the context of modern-day America, ingenuity is a crucial driver of progress and adaptation. It is through inventive thinking that men can address the multifaceted challenges of contemporary society, from technological advancements to social reforms. Ingenuity reflects the classical ideal of the active mind, constantly seeking to expand the boundaries of knowledge and capability. Mansfield would highlight the importance of cultivating a spirit of curiosity and critical thinking, enabling men to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of society.
High Moral Character: The Guiding Compass
For Mansfield, high moral character is the bedrock of a virtuous life. It encompasses integrity, honesty, and a steadfast commitment to ethical principles. In modern-day America, where relativism and moral ambiguity often prevail, maintaining a high moral character is a formidable yet essential endeavor. It requires men to adhere to a code of ethics that transcends personal gain and societal pressures. High moral character involves making principled decisions, even when they are difficult or unpopular. Mansfield would argue that this unwavering commitment to virtue is what ultimately defines a man’s worth and legacy. It is through the cultivation of moral character that men can inspire trust, respect, and admiration, setting a standard for others to follow.
Appreciation for High Culture: Enriching the Soul
Mansfield would underscore the importance of high culture—symphony, art, theatre—as essential to the enrichment of the soul and the cultivation of a refined sensibility. Engagement with high culture elevates the mind and spirit, fostering an appreciation for beauty, complexity, and human creativity. In modern-day America, where popular culture often dominates, an appreciation for high culture serves as a counterbalance, promoting intellectual and aesthetic growth. For men, immersing themselves in the arts nurtures empathy, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the human condition. Mansfield would argue that high culture connects individuals to the timeless truths and universal themes that have shaped human civilization, providing a source of inspiration and moral insight.
Strong Physical Fitness: The Pillar of Health
Mansfield would advocate for the classical ideal of a sound mind in a sound body, emphasizing the importance of physical fitness as integral to overall well-being. In modern-day America, strong physical fitness is essential not only for health but also for the development of discipline and self-control. Regular exercise and proper nutrition enhance physical vitality, which in turn supports mental and emotional resilience. For men, maintaining physical fitness is a demonstration of self-respect and responsibility, reflecting a commitment to personal excellence. Mansfield would highlight that physical fitness also prepares individuals for the demands of life's challenges, embodying the classical virtues of strength and endurance.
In the spirit of Harvey Mansfield, male striving in modern-day America is a dynamic and holistic process that integrates hard work, a loving family, grit, ingenuity, high moral character, an appreciation for high culture, and strong physical fitness. Each element contributes to the cultivation of a virtuous and fulfilled life, enabling men to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society. This comprehensive approach not only leads to personal success but also reinforces the classical virtues that are essential for the flourishing of individuals and communities alike. Through the pursuit of these ideals, men can navigate the complexities of contemporary life with dignity, purpose, and integrity, upholding the timeless values that have shaped Western civilization.
Now a story about a man named Johan that embodies these key tenets.
Johan grew up in a modest neighborhood in a bustling American city. From a young age, he was taught the value of hard work by his parents, who themselves had worked tirelessly to provide for their family. Johan’s father, a skilled carpenter, often took him to work, showing him the intricacies of craftsmanship and the satisfaction of creating something with his own hands. His mother, a dedicated nurse, instilled in him a sense of compassion and duty towards others.
As Johan matured, he carried these lessons into his academic pursuits. He excelled in school, not because he was the most naturally gifted student, but because he approached his studies with relentless determination. He spent long hours in the library, mastering subjects that did not come easily to him. His teachers admired his work ethic and often used him as an example to inspire other students. Johan understood that hard work was not just about achieving good grades but about cultivating a discipline that would serve him throughout his life.
After college, Johan married his high school sweetheart, Maria. Together, they built a loving family, blessed with three children. Johan was a devoted husband and father, always prioritizing his family’s needs. He made time to attend his children’s school events, coach their soccer teams, and help them with their homework. Johan’s home was a place of warmth and laughter, where the values of love, respect, and mutual support were paramount. The stability and affection within his family provided him with the emotional strength to face life’s challenges.
Johan’s career was marked by grit and perseverance. He started as an entry-level employee in a tech company, where he faced numerous setbacks and challenges. Despite these obstacles, Johan remained undeterred. He sought out mentors, constantly improved his skills, and took on difficult projects that others avoided. His perseverance paid off, and he gradually rose through the ranks to become a senior executive. Johan’s journey was a testament to the power of grit; he demonstrated that with passion and persistence, one could achieve great heights.
Throughout his career, Johan was known for his ingenuity. He was not content with merely following established procedures; he constantly sought innovative solutions to improve efficiency and productivity. Johan’s ability to think outside the box led to several groundbreaking projects that significantly benefited his company. His inventive spirit extended beyond his professional life. At home, he enjoyed tinkering with gadgets and often involved his children in DIY projects, fostering their creativity and problem-solving skills.
Integrity and honesty were the cornerstones of Johan’s character. He was known for his ethical conduct, both in his personal and professional life. Johan believed in doing what was right, even when it was difficult or unpopular. His high moral character earned him the trust and respect of his colleagues, friends, and family. He often served as a mediator in conflicts, guiding others with wisdom and fairness. Johan’s actions were always aligned with his principles, reflecting a deep commitment to living a virtuous life.
Johan had a profound appreciation for high culture. He was a regular attendee of the symphony, enjoyed visiting art galleries, and loved going to the theatre. These experiences enriched his soul and provided him with a deeper understanding of the human condition. Johan believed that engaging with high culture was essential for personal growth and intellectual development. He shared this passion with his family, often organizing cultural outings and encouraging his children to explore the arts. Through this, Johan nurtured a love for beauty and creativity in his household.
Physical fitness was an integral part of Johan’s life. He was an avid runner, participating in marathons and local races. Johan believed that maintaining a strong and healthy body was crucial for overall well-being. His commitment to physical fitness extended to his family; they often went hiking, cycling, and played sports together. Johan’s active lifestyle not only kept him in excellent health but also served as a means of instilling discipline and self-care in his children.
Johan’s life was a manifestation of the Aristotelian ideal of living a “good” life. He integrated hard work, a loving family, grit, ingenuity, high moral character, an appreciation for high culture, and strong physical fitness into his daily existence. Through these virtues, Johan achieved eudaimonia—human flourishing and fulfillment. His story exemplifies how one can lead a balanced and virtuous life, contributing positively to society and leaving a lasting legacy of excellence and integrity.
In sum
In the context of Harvey Mansfield's philosophy, Johan's life stands as a testament to the enduring power of classical virtues in modern society. Johan's journey, marked by hard work, a loving family, grit, ingenuity, high moral character, an appreciation for high culture, and strong physical fitness, illustrates the Aristotelian ideal of living a life of purpose and virtue. Mansfield's emphasis on the importance of these virtues in cultivating a noble character and achieving true fulfillment is vividly reflected in Johan's experiences.
Johan's unwavering dedication to hard work and perseverance exemplifies Mansfield's belief in the moral imperative of effort and resilience. His commitment to his family highlights the central role of familial bonds in providing stability and nurturing moral development. Johan's ingenuity and innovative spirit resonate with Mansfield's appreciation for intellectual creativity and the active pursuit of knowledge. His high moral character, demonstrated through his integrity and ethical conduct, aligns with the philosophical ideal of living according to virtuous principles.
Moreover, Johan's love for high culture and strong physical fitness underscores Mansfield's assertion that a well-rounded life requires both intellectual enrichment and physical vitality. By engaging with the arts and maintaining a healthy body, Johan achieves a balanced and enriched existence that embodies the classical virtues celebrated by Mansfield. Through his actions and choices, Johan not only finds personal fulfillment but also sets a powerful example for others, demonstrating that the pursuit of virtue and excellence is a timeless path to a good and meaningful life.
In sum, Johan's life is a powerful illustration of how the principles articulated by Harvey Mansfield and rooted in Aristotelian philosophy can be applied to contemporary living. By striving towards these ideals, Johan achieves eudaimonia, or human flourishing, serving as a beacon of what it means to live a virtuous and fulfilling life in modern-day America. His story reminds us that the classical virtues remain relevant and essential, guiding us towards a life of purpose, integrity, and true happiness.