The Feminization of New York City

In the fall of 2015, a resident of the Upper West Side invited a friend to visit and discussed the changes in New York City since 1978. The visitor noted a significant shift in the city's atmosphere, highlighting that New Yorkers had become notably nicer, comparable to the friendliness found in Chicago and other Midwestern cities. This transformation extends beyond interpersonal interactions to the intellectual climate of the city. Ronnie Grinberg's book, 'Write Like a Man: Jewish Masculinity and the New York Intellectuals,' explores the aggressive argumentative style of mid-20th century New York Intellectuals, which was rooted in a specific expression of Jewish masculinity. In contrast, Timothy Keller, a prominent figure in Manhattan, adopted a gentler, more cultured approach to discourse, favoring civility over confrontation. This shift in style has been embraced by a new generation of professionals in the city. Critics have noted that Keller's approach, termed 'winsomeness,' represents a departure from the combative intellectual tradition of New York. While some argue that this new style signifies a feminization of the city, others suggest it reflects a broader civilization of public culture, marked by increased civility. The evolution of New York's social and intellectual landscape raises questions about the balance between spirited debate and respectful discourse. Although the current spirit of civility may be seen as a positive development, it also highlights a potential decline in the directness and competence that characterized earlier eras of New York's public life.