“Women, Men, and the Whole Damn Thing,” by David Leser, an Australian journalist and author, is a groundbreaking exploration of the MeToo movement. The book delves into the reasons that the movement erupted, the events of the movement to date and the hidden causes of violence and aggression against women. Leser explores the origins of the patriarchy and aims his book primarily at men, arguing that the MeToo movement should not be just a “women’s” movement but a universal one.
Leser’s central theory about the origins of violence against women is the repression of the feminine within men. Men have been socialized, he believes, to diminish the softer, gentler qualities within themselves and hate them. This internal conflict is then projected out into the world. Men who have been conditioned to scorn any presence of the feminine go out and harm women, who they see as the ultimate embodiment of all things feminine.
The book is not all-encompassing by any means. At just 336 pages, it does not provide readers with a deep dive into the issues of the MeToo movement, but rather focuses on giving them a brief overview of many related topics. “Women, Men, and the Whole Damn Thing” is an ideal catalyst for anyone who wants to begin their journey into more intense feminist work.
Some might find it strange that a straight, wealthy, white man would be adding his opinion to the conversation about women’s rights and equality. And while it is important to recognize his obvious privilege, Leser is able to speak to a large group of people that women’s rights activists often fail to reach: men.
Leser speaks from the perspective of a man who has struggled to grapple with what the MeToo movement means for men. His perspective can bring more male allies into the fight for equality and an end to violence.
The book is highly controversial, and the harsh reality of the MeToo Movement will certainly make readers uncomfortable. But it is important for everyone, particularly young minds, to engage with this kind of material and reflect on how they affect or are affected by violence against women.