City of Men: Masculinities and Everyday Morality on Public Transport

This book explores the gendered logics of cooperation and everyday morality through which masculinities take up space in cities, arguing that the gendered fabric of urban life is a product of situational forms of cooperation between different social groups.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 11 August 2023
Publisher: Rutgers University Press

In the bustling urban landscapes of South Asia, men are a ubiquitous presence, yet their activities and experiences within these cities remain largely unexplored. This book aims to shed light on the intricate ways in which men navigate gender dynamics in urban spaces, exploring the interplay between different groups of men on city streets and the moral judgments they make in their interactions. Through ethnographic descriptions of copresence on public transport in Kolkata, India, the book reveals the gendered logics of cooperation and everyday morality that shape masculinities in urban environments.

The book follows the labor geographies of auto-rickshaw and taxi operators, delving into their interactions with traffic police and commuters. It argues that the gendered fabric of urban life is not merely a result of individual choices or societal norms but is also shaped by situational forms of cooperation between different social groups. By examining these interactions, the book highlights the role of everyday morality and provisional support in upholding male privilege in the city.

One of the key findings of the book is that men use their physical presence and mobility to assert their dominance and control over urban spaces. They often engage in acts of territoriality, marking their territory with gestures and behaviors that assert their superiority. This includes occupying public spaces, such as seats on buses or trains, and engaging in conversations that exclude women or other men.

Furthermore, the book explores the ways in which men navigate the moral ambiguities of their actions in urban spaces. While they may adhere to traditional notions of masculinity and honor, they may also engage in behaviors that violate these norms, such as harassing women or engaging in petty crime. The book argues that these moral judgments are shaped by a complex interplay of cultural, social, and economic factors, including notions of gender, class, and power.

The book also highlights the ways in which men's experiences of gender in urban spaces are shaped by their social identities and relationships. Different groups of men, such as immigrants, workers, and students, may have different experiences and perspectives on gender and urban life, which can lead to tensions and conflicts. The book argues that these differences need to be recognized and addressed to create more inclusive and equitable urban environments.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the study of gender and urbanism by shedding light on the complex ways in which men navigate gender dynamics in urban spaces. Through ethnographic descriptions and analysis, it provides a nuanced understanding of the gendered logics of cooperation and everyday morality that shape masculinities in urban environments. By recognizing the role of situational forms of cooperation and provisional support in upholding male privilege, the book offers insights into the challenges and opportunities for creating more inclusive and equitable cities.

Dimension: 216 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781978829503