John Nagle

I OFTEN SAY SOCIOLOGY IS A MARTIAL ART, A MEANS OF SELF-DEFENCE. BASICALLY, YOU USE IT TO DEFEND YOURSELF, WITHOUT HAVING THE RIGHT TO USE IT FOR UNFAIR ATTACKS.

Connell argues that there are a number of subordinate masculinities and femininities arranged hierarchically underneath the hegemonic masculinity. Among these subordinate forms is homosexual masculinity. If hegemonic masculinity is seen as the embodiment of manhood, then in our gender-ordered society, the gay man is seen as the opposite. Connell is not claiming that gay men are inferior, but he understands that homosexuality is a stigmatized identity and ranks at the bottom of the gender hierarchy for men.