One's choice of the best male role model is very personal and depends on an individual's value system. In my view the best male role model is one who 'turns the other cheek', has principles, does not put others down and is honourable in their dealings with others - my choice would be Mahatma Gandhi.
"We don't have enough male role models who are in touch with their emotions, who aren't aggressive, who see the good in other people, rather than the evil, and don't let their passion turn into aggression."
Not only was Gandhi a non-violent protestor and passionate about his cause, he was also a gentle man and very much in touch with who he was. He was always kind in his relationships with other people.
We don't have enough male role models who are in touch with their emotions, who aren't aggressive, who see the good in other people, rather than the evil, and don't let their passion turn into aggression. I think it's about men getting in touch with their female side, their emotional side. We need men to be more emotionally literate and not as aggressive, especially when their drive for success comes at the expense of others.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/dpjBWw5w444?wmode=opaque
Gandhi's attributes are still applicable today. More so than ever actually, because of the need for equal opportunities between men and women, and for men to engage more with the family than they ever did. Men's identity should not be purely linked to work; it should be spread across all areas of life.
Professor Cooper’s new book (written with Gordon Tinline), The Outstanding Middle Manager, is out now