A brutal childhood, glorified toughness, destructive images of masculinity: the recent scandal surrounding Elon Musk’s father Errol shows how abused power, violence and outdated notions of masculinity continue to have an impact today. According to research by the New York Times, Errol Musk is alleged to have abused five of his children and stepchildren—allegations he denies. But the debate highlights a fundamental pattern: violence as part of male self-definition.