What does it mean to be a man? ?

Question

And if an adult male isn't a man what is he?

Answer 1

Assuming your question is asking for more than just the basic answer about biology, since it's in the philosophy section, my answer below is about the moral qualities it takes to be a man.

Being a "man" has always meant more than the basic biological-ness of being a male. Virtue, according to its etymology, signifies manliness or courage. In the beginnings of morality, being a man meant the pursuit of moral excellence. Now this pursuit of moral excellence was in a culture that had a morality of giving its highest praises to those who were the best warriors. It justified war, strength, and power over others

In our times, were equality is a fundamental belief, the pursuit of power over others isn't going to fly. Not that we would want to live in a culture that lusted for the joy of the kill. But what we can take and use, but at a higher plane of understanding, is the notion that to be a man is to be in pursuit of moral excellence. Except now the morality is not one of blood but one we must individually find.

How can one achieve moral excellence? Going the extra mile to help a friend in need. Having the strength to guide someone when all they really want is compassion; meaning they want to be told everything will be okay but they need do nothing different in their lives to change whatever around. The hardness of character to stick to your principles in the face of the "mob" that has no principles. These are some examples

Answer 2

Being a person is as fluid and variable as the number of people that have ever lived. We can respond to societal norms of gender role-modeling, or choose to respond to a set of internal standards. I think most men (and women) tend to do a little of both...

Answer 3

To be a good (sensible adult) man is to be able to take responsibility for his behaviour, attitude and actions. Also to have a good level of emotional intelligence with a mature outlook on life. And a good sense of humour.

Answer 4

Being a man, is your basic instinct isn't it?

Each man is different.  I hope?  Nothing is that black and white.

Answer 5

i think that there are lots of answers to that. some people feel that a man should be rough, tough, have facial hair, be stern, not be open with his feelings, not cry. but then we have some males in the world that don't have facial hair or like to laugh and enjoy life. some men are not tough and rough but are they not men? i believe that it's all because of the media and family morals & values and upbring how we see what a man should be. but that's just my thought on that. some might look at what a man is supposed to be in a different way.

Answer 6

A Trans testacle