This reader is about gender and the developing world. In recent years there has arisen a sophisticated feminist literature on the lives of Third World women, their roles in development and their experiences of conflict. However the lives of Third World men have been ignored or consigned negative and stereotypical gender roles. While it is vital not to overlook men's roles in crime, exploitation, and violence, it is obvious that a more nuanced and empathetic portrait of Third World men remains to be painted. In this anthology are parts about family and sexuality, religion, work, migration and masculinities.
From the rescue of PFC Jessica Lynch to the high-profile trial of Lynndie England, the war in Iraq has highlighted women's presence within the military as never before. Carol Burke analyzes the military as an occupational folk group, arguing that every detail of military culture-from the 'high-and-tight' haircut to the chants sung in basic training is laden with significance. Exploring the minute ways that -the cult of masculinity- persists in all branches of the United States military today, Burke unearths details about basic training, military dress and speech, the history of the marching chant, the disdain some veterans still harbor for Jane Fonda, and the colorful-and sometimes questionable-rituals of military manhood. Postulating that culture is made-not born-Burke urges the military to consciously change its policy of -gendered apartheid- so it can evolve into the gender-, race-, and sexuality-neutral democratic institution it needs to be.