The Protection We No Longer Need

Men have historically sought to shield others from various threats, be they wild animals, rival tribes, or natural disasters. Yet, the world has transformed significantly in recent centuries. This is particularly evident when we consider the data on life expectancy:

Much of the rise in life expectancy can be attributed to advancements in medicine and a decrease in child mortality. Additionally, society has become less violent. Consider how rarely we hear about duels, organized crime, or even bar fights these days. Here’s another graph that illustrates this decline:

In many regions, the likelihood of being murdered has decreased by a staggering seventy times. While mortality rates are not the sole measure of danger, they provide a helpful indicator.

This is encouraging news! We have made significant strides in creating protective structures. Our police forces are more capable than individuals acting alone, and our societal systems, including the economy and education, offer better opportunities and diminish the need for violence.

While it’s difficult to quantify, consider how organized societies tend to have lower rates of violence:

Look at that! The average annual chance of dying a violent death is just 0.00033%! This figure is exponentially lower than that of many studied non-state societies, and it’s even more favorable in peaceful regions of the Global North.

These statistics exemplify success—the success of our ancestors who endeavored to forge a safer world for us. Most of us are not confronted by daily threats of death and violence, thus negating the need for average individuals to act as protectors.

Understanding Modern Dangers

What are the actual threats people face today? Here are some insightful statistics:

If you’re seeking to make a significant impact as a protector, consider pursuing a career in healthcare. The leading causes of death often relate to aging, but there are still significant risks—such as road accidents—where individuals are four times more likely to perish than from homicide.

If your focus is on shielding others from terrorism or natural disasters, the news isn’t promising—very few lives are lost to these threats.

Consider the Global North data, where in Europe, homicide rates are dramatically lower, and the statistics for natural disasters and terrorism are so minuscule they hardly register (0.0007%).

The red arrow highlights a concerning statistic: suicide prevention emerges as a vital area for protection. In Europe, nearly three and a half times as many individuals die from suicide compared to homicide.

The majority of these deaths are linked to mental health issues, with nearly 5% of Europeans battling anxiety disorders and 3.5% suffering from depression.

These are millions of individuals who truly require support. They need someone to help them navigate their struggles and shield them from their own challenges.

There are many other vulnerable groups as well. The impoverished and homeless certainly deserve advocates and protectors.

Protecting Women

If your intention is to provide protection specifically for women, that is commendable! However, it’s crucial to recognize that protection is not limited by gender—women can protect others, and men also require protection.

Consider the data regarding violence against women, particularly from intimate partners:

Effective protection for women involves vigilance against signs of domestic abuse or relationship tension. If you know a man who mistreats his partner or struggles with a breakup, reach out and offer support.

Listening to women who express feeling unsafe is essential, and it’s equally important to address the struggles men face, as many who harm others may be grappling with their own issues.

I believe that the most impactful way for modern men to safeguard women is by fostering strong friendships with other men. By actively listening to their challenges, we can help resolve issues before they escalate into violence.

This approach applies universally; the same principles of support and understanding can be extended to protect men and individuals of all genders, as most violence occurs within contexts of unresolved conflict.

Addressing Sexual Abuse

Of course, violence is not the only concern. Sexual violence remains a significant issue, disproportionately affecting women.

For instance, in the UK, one in twenty women has experienced sexual violence in the past year, a stark contrast to the negligible risk of dying in a natural disaster.

To protect against sexual violence, immediate intervention is crucial when witnessing an assault. Yet, such events often occur out of sight. Therefore, proactive prevention is vital.

Preventative measures include addressing behaviors that may lead to assault, such as harassment or inappropriate jokes. It’s about cultivating an environment where sexual violence is unequivocally condemned.

Moreover, equipping women with self-defense skills and empowering them to assert their boundaries is essential.

Lastly, maintaining strong friendships with other men can help address underlying issues before they manifest as violence.

Combating Exploitation and Inequality

Just as Hollywood villains have shifted from historical tyrants to modern corporate greed, we must recognize that our society requires protection from exploitation by powerful entities.

In 2021, Elon Musk challenged the UN to demonstrate how his wealth could alleviate global poverty. Their response was clear: a mere 2% donation could save millions from starvation.

The wealth gap is stark; the top 1% possess nearly double the wealth of the rest of the world. Yet, minimum wage in the US has not kept pace with inflation since the 1940s.

This disparity highlights the urgent need for protection against corporate exploitation. We need advocates who will champion fair labor practices, living wages, and legal safeguards.

But this protection is not only for the underprivileged; it’s a collective necessity. Corporate greed undermines democracy, damages our environment, and incites conflict.

Consider your own financial struggles—how are your efforts to secure a home faring amidst rising costs?

These are the pressing issues of our time, and we have real heroes among us advocating for change—activists, whistleblowers, and countless individuals working tirelessly for justice.

Let’s not forget those who suffer from illegal exploitation, such as sweatshop laborers and victims of human trafficking.

If you’re prepared to engage in serious protective efforts, consider supporting organizations that combat human trafficking and assist those in need.

Everyday Life Challenges

While death, sexual violence, and trafficking are alarming issues, most individuals face a multitude of daily challenges requiring protection.

We endure stress from bosses, illnesses, unfair judgments, and betrayals. We encounter obstacles that prevent us from achieving our best.

The reality is that the majority of time, the protection we need is not physical but emotional and supportive.

It’s about having someone who comprehends our struggles and can help us develop strategies to cope. Often, we simply require someone who can help us regain our composure and navigate our emotions.

Women particularly appreciate this kind of support, as emotional regulation is vital. However, many men are also beginning to acknowledge their need for similar emotional support.

Becoming an Effective Protector

The landscape of protection has shifted significantly since our ancestors defended against sabretooth tigers.

While they faced a myriad of threats, no one seeks protection from dangers that no longer exist.

We owe a great deal to those who came before us for crafting a safer world. However, our work is not yet finished; it’s our responsibility to continue improving life for future generations.

To protect effectively, we must focus on threats that:

• Exist
• Are significant
• Individuals cannot easily manage alone

If we train solely to defend against outdated threats, we squander our potential.

Instead, we need individuals who will advocate against poverty, mental health issues, exploitation, sexual abuse, and the everyday challenges people face. We require strong allies who inspire others and address issues proactively.

The skills of a modern protector are not found in combat sports; they lie in:

• De-escalating tensions
• Healing physical and mental ailments
• Educating communities to reduce violence
• Advocating against exploitation through activism and legal means
• Providing emotional support during crises
• Preventing sexual violence and challenging sexism
• Being supportive friends to men and women alike

It may not be as glamorous as slaying dragons, but it is essential work.

Facts do not align with our emotions; some forms of protection are effective while others are not.

Engaging in activities that claim to protect against non-existent dangers doesn’t serve anyone, and while it can be entertaining, it lacks real impact.

If you aspire to genuinely protect individuals from tangible threats in effective ways, consider adopting the strategies outlined above.

EDIT: Notably, all these protective actions can be performed by anyone, regardless of gender. This text addresses men specifically, yet it’s crucial to recognize that protection is a shared responsibility, and anyone can contribute. I plan to expand on this topic further in a separate piece. (Thanks to Mona Lisa (Pri-Pri) and MM for their insights.)