Introduction
The chosen article, “US tech investor Joe Lonsdale refuses to apologize for ‘loser’ paternity tweet,” from The Guardian, describes an imagined community of masculine men who must put efforts into the well-being of their families. Lonsdale particularly emphasizes men in “important positions” to highlight their significance to society and general stability. Ultimately, Joe Lonsdale states that taking paternity leaves to stay with family contradicts his image of masculinity, creating an imagined community of people with similar opinions.
Discussion
After receiving backlash from the community, Lonsdale defended his position. He highlighted historical figures, such as men from previous generations, who worked hard to secure the future of their families. Moreover, he incited shared experiences of the community members by emphasizing genuine care for the family. Lonsdale stated, “Nothing is more important than our families. Am excited to get home to Tayler and my girls” (Neate, 2021). It is a shared experience/value that many people in the imagined community can relate to. However, the conflicting notion that makes the argument less convincing is Lonsdale’s attitude. He questioned the significance of paternity leave by criticizing its length, “But really, 6 months?” (Neate, 2021). While he tries to explain that working to provide for the family is meaningful to him, this pretentious tone discredits fathers who actually take the whole paternity leave to stay with their families. This approach supports Lonsdale’s argument, but there is a contradiction between “nothing is more important than our families” and “6 months is just too much for the family.”
Conclusion and Personal Reflection
The analysis shows that Lonsdale creates an imagined community of people with similar opinions by referencing historical figures and demonstrating shared values and experiences. Personally, I would describe the imagined community constructed by the text as a group of men who firmly believe that their work and money are more important for the family than their own presence. I think that most members of this community genuinely care for their families but misjudge the significance of simply being there with their partners and children. Hence, the values associated with this imagined community are work, effort, financial support, and securing the future of the family.
Reference
Neate, R. (2021). US tech investor Joe Lonsdale refuses to apologize for ‘loser’ paternity tweet. The Guardian. Web.