Where I grew up, there was a noticeable amount of male and female separation when it came to public events. The men would all go to one side and the women would go to the other.

Men would shake hands and on occasion hug each other. Public displays of affection were always kept minimal. The str8 world I grew up in is just quirky that way.

For me, I think it is environmental. I have met men my age who were raised in well educated homes, with liberal (not morally bankrupt) parents who never placed negative associations with a male/male hug. For these men it was just what it was, a hug. I always know when I'm around broad minded individuals like this because the energy they give off to those around them is
balanced and comforting.

It's always a pleasure to meet people who are a product of this type of environment, they tend to bring out the natural course of human behavior in everyone. Generous, giving and no hang up's when it comes to a simple hug from the same sex.