[CmdrShep2154 (OP)]

It seemed like during the 2000s men were encouraged to be overly obsessed with exercise, muscle cars, and the NFL and women wanted to be like those rich reality show women. It was easier for men to conform since weight lifting, muscle cars, and NFL didn't cost nearly as much as the female ideal.

Why can't these men be strong, smart, and nice?

Like the astronauts?

What was to blame for this?

Hollywood?

Has there been a pushback against this?

It seems like there is no more stigma against fantasy themed TV shows with the massive success of "Game of Thrones".

How would you feel if there was a massive cultural backlash against excessive materialism and the next generation of youth wanted to be both smart and physical?
 

[alancalverd]

Why can't these men be strong, smart, and nice?

Like the astronauts?

Lack of wars. Most astronauts have seen active military service or been strongly connected with the military as test pilots or engineers. This tends to sort out the men from the rubbish, and also produces some very strong, smart, personable women.

[Bored chemist]

Do Jocks aspire to be Jocks?

[alancalverd]

I don't think anyone forces them, so presumably, yes.

Apart, of course, from those born north of Hadrian's Wall, who have no choice in the matter.

[Bored chemist]

I don't think anyone forces them, so presumably, yes.

Or, maybe it's innate like left-handedness.