The Myth of the ‘Strong Man’: Power, Masculinity, and Redefining Strength

I was watching ITV News on Thursday, an interview by Robert Peston with Kier Starmer, where Peston described Trump and Putin as two ‘strong men.’ It made me feel really uneasy, the idea these men are being labelled as ‘strong’ and wondered what impact that would have on men today. This term evokes images of power, authority, and control, yet it also raises uncomfortable questions about masculinity, leadership, and the societal values that shape our perception of strength. Why are authoritarian tendencies, emotional detachment, and displays of aggression celebrated as markers of strength? And what does this reveal about our understanding of masculinity?

The ‘Strong Man’ Archetype

Historically, the term "strong man" has been associated with autocratic leaders who project authority and demand unwavering loyalty. These figures often present themselves as protectors, using their power to control, dominate, and silence dissent. In the context of Putin and Trump, this image is carefully crafted through displays of physical vigour, assertive rhetoric, and an unapologetic rejection of vulnerability.

But what lies beneath this veneer of strength? Often, it is an adherence to a version of masculinity that equates power with dominance, emotional repression, and an aversion to compromise. This model of leadership is deeply intertwined with toxic masculinity—a cultural script that pressures men to conform to rigid gender norms, valuing aggression over empathy and control over cooperation.

Toxic Masculinity and the Performance of Power

Toxic masculinity does not merely dictate how men should behave; it punishes those who deviate from its narrow standards. It glorifies traits like competitiveness, emotional stoicism, and a refusal to admit weakness, while dismissing empathy, collaboration, and vulnerability as signs of failure. This can be seen in the way political "strong men" handle criticism—often by attacking opponents personally, doubling down on controversial statements, or refusing to acknowledge mistakes.

Such leaders are celebrated for their toughness, yet this “strength” often masks insecurity and fear of losing control. By projecting an image of invincibility, they appeal to those who equate power with dominance and leadership with authoritarianism. However, this brand of strength is ultimately brittle, reliant on coercion rather than genuine influence or respect.

Redefining Strength: What Makes a ‘Strong’ Man?

True strength is not about domination or emotional repression. It is about resilience, integrity, and the courage to show vulnerability. In a world that increasingly demands collaboration and empathy, the strongest leaders are those who listen, adapt, and inspire—not those who bully or dictate.

A genuinely strong man is secure enough to express his emotions without fear of judgment, confident enough to admit when he is wrong, and wise enough to seek input from others. I see strength in men’s vulnerability everyday with clients and witness it with my own sons daily, this to me is strength.

The Way Forward: Embracing Healthy Masculinity

To move away from the toxic “strong man” archetype, society must challenge outdated norms about masculinity. This involves encouraging emotional intelligence in boys, celebrating diverse expressions of manhood, and valuing collaboration over competition.

Leaders who embody this healthier masculinity already exist. Figures like Nelson Mandela have shown that strength lies in humility, dialogue, and compassion. These leaders demonstrated that embracing one’s humanity is not a weakness but a profound source of power.

Breaking Free from the Myth

The myth of the “strong man” is pervasive, but it is also damaging—to individuals, societies, and political systems. By redefining what it means to be strong, we can build a world that values connection over control, empathy over ego, and cooperation over coercion.

In the end, strength is not about being invulnerable or invincible. It is about being human—and having the courage to show it.