Penis (is) viewed in terms of size, power, and vulnerability through the genitalia and masculinity. By nature, every human is born with genitalia, and as a sexually reproducing organism,
human biological sex is divided into male and female. What indicates this division, as well as the reproductive mechanism, is the genitalia. The male genitalia, or penis,
is characterized as a long muscular tube that can stretch, contract, become erect, and flaccid, protruding from the male body. Besides serving as a channel for urination from the bladder,
the penis naturally serves to distinguish sexual roles and the mechanism of pairing with the opposite sex to continue the species.
Understanding the Flesh
It can be said that the male genitalia not only play a role in natural reproduction but also hold social significance. The feeling of masculinity when the penis is removed causes patients undergoing treatment to feel a loss of manhood, leading to behavioral changes.
The first characteristic is the attempt to restore full masculinity through social life under masculine values, while another characteristic is accepting a half-man identity, expressed through behavioral and social relationship adjustments.
Fear of traditional sexual intercourse and exploring new sexual experiences are shown in this case study of penis removal, demonstrating that the meaning of having a penis is significantly linked to interpretations and cultures of masculinity.
Penis Supremacy
In Western culture and mainstream masculinity concepts, masculinity consists of strength, toughness, power and influence, and a lack of fussiness, which is often considered a feminine trait.
This masculine cultural stereotype creates expectations for moral behavior that society holds men must embody these traits.
The concept of penis supremacy is a Western idea explaining that the size of the male genitalia relates to the accumulation of masculine capital compared to others with male genitalia.
However, the concept of penis supremacy does not always consider size alone. Masculinity expressed through genital size must demonstrate that the size of the penis, as a concrete form of masculine capital accumulation, is desirable and functionally effective.
Although this concept places those with large penises in a high position within the peer masculinity structure, if the individual has an abnormally large penis that is undesirable or cannot satisfy women and/or men with whom they have intimate relationships,
Size and Vulnerability
Historically, penis size has been given complex and varied meanings. Ancient Greek society believed the male body was beautiful and noble. The ideal male body had broad shoulders, a wide chest, muscles, a slim waist, a rounded buttocks, large thighs, and long slender calves.
The genitalia, however, were supposed to be small because, for the Greeks, a small penis was a trait of intellectuals, while a large penis was characteristic of slaves. This valuation contrasts with Roman society, which valued and gave social status to those with large genitalia.
In the 21st century, the concept of penis supremacy is embedded in contemporary culture, which tends to value large penises. This valuation is evident in pornographic films, advertisements, television programs, and discussions on social media.
Meanwhile, men with small genitalia are often mocked and questioned regarding their masculinity and sexual performance in various ways.
Measuring Male Genital Size
Refers to length and circumference, with measurements taken both when flaccid and fully erect, though generally the latter is preferred.
The concept of penis supremacy makes masculinity expressed through small genitalia vulnerable. Those who perceive themselves as having small genitalia and feel sensitive often exhibit intense masculinity in various ways and seek methods to enlarge their penis.
For example, using vacuum pumps to increase length and circumference, though the results are temporary. Frequent use thickens the skin and subcutaneous tissue of the penis. Second, liposuction in the pubic area
helps increase the visible part of the penis, making it appear larger than when covered by fat. Third, surgery to cut the ligament attaching the penis to the pubic bone allows part of the penis to extend further from the body, increasing its length.
Summary: Social Attitudes Toward Penis Size and Sexual Expectations
Currently, the meaning attributed to penis size is changing from previous eras. There is a growing movement supporting those with small genitalia, especially in online communities, encouraging them to be stronger and prouder of themselves.
