Professional athletes and men’s wellness gurus are increasingly turning to psychedelics as a means of exploring their inner selves and redefining masculinity. Figures like Jordan Peterson and Joe Rogan, who advocate for both traditional masculinity and psychedelic experiences, serve as role models. Many athletes, including Riley Cote and Mike Tyson, have had life-changing experiences with psychedelics, leading to a shift in their understanding of masculinity and the development of compassion and self-love. However, psychedelics are not a panacea for toxic masculinity, as some individuals may use them to maintain a narrow and rigid definition of masculinity. Capitalism also plays a role, as influencers often partner with companies seeking to profit from the growing interest in psychedelics. Ultimately, the choice to embrace psychedelic masculinity or seek something more meaningful lies with each individual man.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Athletes and wellness gurus use psychedelics | Shift in masculinity towards self-exploration | Greater acceptance and emotional intelligence in masculinity | Desire for personal growth and self-discovery |
| Influence of Jordan Peterson and Joe Rogan | Influence of unconventional male role models | Evolving perceptions of masculinity and self-improvement | Desire for alternative perspectives and personal development |
| Increase in professional athletes using psychedelics | Shift in perception of psychedelics and masculinity | More athletes prioritize mental and emotional well-being | Desire for personal growth and healing |
| Aubrey Marcus as a masculine wellness influencer | Emphasis on rugged, masculine appearance and psychedelics | More openness about experiences with psychedelics and alternative relationships | Desire for personal growth and self-expression |
| NHL enforcer’s transformation through psychedelics | Shift from rough masculinity to compassion and self-reflection | Increased compassion and self-awareness in masculinity | Desire for personal growth and healing |
| Impact of psychedelics on conception of masculinity | Challenge toxic masculinity and promote self-love | Greater emphasis on self-care and emotional well-being | Desire for personal growth and healthier masculinity |
| Psychedelics as an alternative path to toxic masculinity | Potential for psychedelics to challenge rigid masculinity | Varying outcomes, some maintain toxic masculinity | Desire for personal growth and alternative perspectives |
| Capitalism aspect of masculine influencers and psychedelics | Commercialization of psychedelics and masculine self-improvement | Focus on performance enhancement rather than personal growth | Desire for financial gain and marketing opportunities |
| Parallel between professional athletes and typical US males | Similar career trajectories and reliance on physical and mental health | Decision between personal growth or pursuing performance enhancement | Desire for success and personal fulfillment |
| Psychedelic masculinity as a choice for personal growth | Decision to explore personal growth or chase performance enhancement | Evolving perceptions of masculinity and self-improvement | Desire for personal growth and fulfillment |