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Manon's avatar

It's a nice observation that the literal meaning of what Tate is saying is probably not what makes him attractive to younger men. Given how therapised our societies are, it's surprising that the symbolic appeal of these "problematic" people is not discussed more. In the occasions that it is, it's the adults' meaning of the symbols which is used.

As an aside - I think this is also why there's a significant communication challenge between adults and young adults. Many common images and topics (careers, danger, money, relationships, violence) have very different emotional responses and meanings.

But on Tate, what naiveté to believe that funding a group of regime approved acts will make teenage men lose their violent and base urges. I'm not even sure it would be a good thing if it did work either - one of the great steps in maturing is reflecting on poor behaviour in the past. It gives you a sense of understanding when you see others make mistakes, and an awareness of the importance of self control.

We would be better off looking back at how these urges were historically channeled and directed (sports, opportunity for non sport competition, male only spaces) instead of pretending that we can eradicate them at source. We would also do well to make sure any future policies are designed by adults that have already had significant interaction with young men.

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Koshmarov's avatar

Charles Barkley: "I am not a role model. I am not paid to be a role model. I am paid to wreak havoc on the basketball court. Parents should be role models."

Advertising, yes, but effective. https://youtu.be/R8vh2MwXZ6o

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