What distinguishes hegemonic masculinity from toxic masculinity?

Hegemonic masculinity and toxic masculinity are concepts that explore different aspects of masculinity within societal structures. Hegemonic masculinity refers to the dominant form of masculinity that upholds and legitimizes male dominance over women and marginalized masculinities. It is about the cultural ideal of masculinity that is often associated with traits like authority, toughness, and control.

On the other hand, toxic masculinity refers to cultural norms and behaviors that can lead to harm both to individuals—especially men—and society at large. It emphasizes negative traits such as aggression, emotional repression, and the devaluation of women. While all forms of hegemonic masculinity can have toxic qualities, some expressions of masculinity may not align with hegemony but can still be deemed toxic.

This distinction is critical in understanding how masculinity functions within social stratifications. The answer focuses on the nuanced relationship between the two concepts, portraying that while hegemonic masculinity can be toxic, it is classified as part of a broader societal structure, whereas toxic masculinity can manifest in various ways that do not necessarily align with the ideals of hegemony. This complexity highlights the importance of recognizing different manifestations of masculine identity and their impacts on society.