Comments on: The Art of Manliness Podcast #22: Raising Cain with Dr. Michael Thompson

By: Henry

Henry — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 14:00:59 +0000

I bought and read Raising Cain the year my twin sons were born. Since then I have had another son. My boys are nine and seven. I re-read the book every two years and it has helped me tremendously as a reminder of the ups and downs of boyhood.

In general, I agree with most of what Mr. Thompson presents, but even in the ten years since the book was originally written, things have changed in the lives of boys in elementary school. My sons, who go to public school in Alabama, are not experiencing the culture of cruelty; not as I did or as described in the book. Either things have changed, or my sons are fortunate to go to a public school where the culture of cruelty has not manifested itself or is kept in check by the staff.

I would recommend the book to anyone with sons, but certainly not as a single source on how to raise boys – only as one tool among many in the toolbox needed to bring a boy up to the full potentials of true manhood.

By: Maru

Maru — Sun, 16 May 2010 03:41:04 +0000

As Brett points out, masculinity and manliness has changed profoundly even in this country over the centuries. In the 19th century it was acceptable, and even encouraged, for young men to express their feelings through poetry. Abraham Lincoln shared a bed with Joshua Speed for four years, and they remained the closest of friends for the rest of their lives, despite distance and how they changed. If someone from today were to see their interactions, he or she would probably assume that they were a gay couple, despite the fact that both men were married.

Alas, I cannot say why this changed, but I look forward to a return to the ways of the 19th century, when men could express their feelings and when men could be blood brothers with one another.

By: robert Glenn

robert Glenn — Tue, 11 May 2010 16:18:49 +0000

I recommend a simple breathing exercise. breathe in for a count of five, hold for a count of five breathe out for a count of five, hold out for a count of five. repeat for a ten count. It’s harder than it sounds, if you can’t do it for a five count start with a four count.

By: Kris Freeberg

Kris Freeberg — Tue, 11 May 2010 15:53:28 +0000

Thanks Brett I’ve ordered the book.

By: Margie

Margie — Tue, 11 May 2010 15:46:38 +0000

This topic is very near and dear to my heart. I especially like that he discussed “empathy” and the problems boys are facing in school. Thank you for the great interview.

By: Brent Allsup

Brent Allsup — Tue, 11 May 2010 15:26:36 +0000

Good podcast. I feel the underlying concept is to provide an appropriate amount of “balance” raising children. A combination of traditional manly toughness and providing the tools necessary for kids to develop emotional intelligence.

By: Tom

Tom — Tue, 11 May 2010 06:31:28 +0000

Great podcast, quite interesting!
How did you record the telephone-interview?

Best

By: Playstead

Playstead — Tue, 11 May 2010 04:50:35 +0000

I agree with a lot of the points that Dr. Thompson makes — especially about boys in school. I don’t agree with his points on sports though. While sports should not be ultra-competitive until kids hit 9 or 10, having them learn the value of team work, friendship, fitness and having a hell of a good time is important. I still have friends I played soccer with in elementary school and that was almost 30 years ago.

Good points about how dads should be more open and involved with their kids. Great interview.

By: JR

JR — Tue, 11 May 2010 04:34:26 +0000

Great podcast. I really love these things. Keep it up, brother.