Big Think The male inequality problem is getting worse | Richard Reeves: Full Interview
Nov 10, 2025
Richard V. Reeves, a senior fellow focused on inequality and author, discusses the alarming trends affecting boys and men today. He highlights the 'quiet male crisis' marked by falling educational outcomes and disconnection from the labor market. Reeves challenges societal narratives and suggests targeted policy responses, like increasing male representation in education and mental health fields. He also addresses the rising rates of male unemployment and suicide, advocating for systemic changes to support young men in navigating contemporary challenges.
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Beat Online Influence With Real Men
- Counter toxic online role models by increasing real-life male mentors: teachers, coaches, fathers, and neighbors.
- Provide boys in-person exemplars rather than trying to manufacture 'progressive' influencers online.
Value Of Single-Sex Youth Spaces
- Well-managed single-sex youth spaces can teach balanced emotional and social skills.
- Reeves argues scouts and boys' teams help boys practice care, teamwork, and service shoulder-to-shoulder.
Choose Shoulder-To-Shoulder Conversations
- Use shoulder-to-shoulder activities (sports, hikes, DIY) to open conversations with men and boys.
- Let coaches and mentors engage informally rather than forcing face-to-face therapy styles that many men avoid.
