postmodernity and masculinity

• Simon Winlow examined the impacts of globalization on masculinity in the 21st century in his work "Bad Fellas" published in 2001
• Winlow applied Chloe Nolan's ideas on criminal and conflict subcultures to North East England, focusing on the impact of globalization on traditional male industries such as heavy manufacturing
• There was an emergence of a new criminal subculture in Sunderland and surrounding areas, shifting focus from traditional male industries to the nighttime economy
• The privatization of industries and globalization of heavy industry disproportionately impacted male employment in the Northeast, leading to a crisis of masculinity as traditional opportunities for proving masculinity diminished
• Males in the area looked to assert their masculinity through physical dominance and involvement in disorganized criminal activities, such as smuggling alcohol and cigarettes
• Working as a doorman, Winlow observed males investing in their physique to maintain an image of physical dominance, known as bodily capital
• Maintaining the image of being a "hard man" not only provided status but also opportunities for earning extra money through security work and involvement in criminal activities
• The image of hyper masculinity was used for intimidation and status in the nighttime economy, replacing the traditional masculinity associated with heavy industry employment
• The disorganized culture of smuggling evolved into more organized criminal activities, with legitimate firms involved in protection rackets and smuggling illegal substances through established networks in Europe
• Profits from criminal activities were laundered through legitimate businesses like gyms and salons, turning criminal pursuits into full-time career options within an organized criminal subculture
• Winlow's research updates Chloe Nolan's ideas for the 21st century and globalization era, highlighting the shift in masculinity representation and criminal subcultures
• Bodily capital is not exclusive to males, with a significant number of female door supervisors in the UK, indicating a changing perception of physical strength and security needs
• Winlow's work aligns with Messerschmitt and Connell's concepts of hegemonic masculinity, where status is awarded to those conforming to stereotypical masculine images