Final answer:
Men play a crucial role in society as providers and pillars of stability, contributing to a nation's health and intelligence. However, true societal progress requires contribution and well-being from all its members, not solely men. Balancing gender roles and ensuring empowerment for all is essential for societal advancement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Indeed, men are a vital element in society, pivotal for sustaining robust health and nurturing an intelligent human resource essential for a nation's progress. Historically, the role of men has been closely tied to providing for their families and acting as the main workforce, particularly in agriculture and economic activities. This perspective on male roles is not just economic but also intertwined with cultural expectations of masculinity and responsibility.
In certain societies, such as in Igbo communities in southeast Nigeria, as anthropologist Daniel Jordan Smith's work 'To Be a Man Is Not a One-Day Job' illustrates, achieving manhood is a continuous effort that requires fulfilling societal expectations, including accumulating wealth and supporting extended family networks. Men have traditionally been seen as the backbone of the workforce, their absence, for instance, during wartime, led to shifts in workforce dynamics, creating opportunities and stresses, particularly for women.
However, it is essential to recognize that fostering a resilient society requires more than just the contributions of men; it necessitates a balanced participation from all members of the community, including women and non-binary individuals. The health of our society as an organic whole depends heavily on the well-being and empowerment of every individual, regardless of gender. This holistic focus on well-being and equal opportunity is crucial for societal progress and the eventual survival of civilization.