What It Takes To Be A Man

In our popular culture, gender stereotypes do not define who we are, rather, they shape who we try to be. This could be seen through the effects that Clint Eastwood had during the 1970s after starring in Dirty Harry. A counter-example of this would be Lady GaGa's effects on the horrified US population of the late 2000's; we are all confused Lady GaGa, would you please stop? When we turn on the TV, pick up the paper, or even go to check our email online, we are engulfed with news of the latest trends of "celebs." Celebrity fashion has a great effect on what Americans buy and ultimately on their gender identity. Males have been growing increasingly masculine since the 1960s. This can be seen in the change in the styles of GI Joe action figures: they are becoming more muscularly defined and in turn, more manly. But recently there has been an increase in men who call themselves metrosexual. This means they are heterosexual men who are in touch with their feminine side. This tributary off of the mainstream of "manliness" has also arisen from popular culture. In conclusión, gender stereotypes are not defined, but merely reflected off the messages being sent out by popular culture.