incel

Unpacking "Incel": How Toxic Masculinity is Shaping Online Culture and Beyond

The term "incel" is increasingly appearing in headlines and discussions around gender, misogyny, violence, and extremism. But what does it really mean, and why is it relevant to Australians? This article delves into the world of incels, exploring its origins, its impact on society, and its reflection in popular culture, like the new Netflix series, Adolescence.

What Exactly is an "Incel"?

Incel, short for "involuntarily celibate," refers to a person, typically a man, who feels unable to find a romantic or sexual partner despite desiring one. While the term originally had neutral connotations, it has evolved to become associated with a specific online subculture characterised by misogyny, resentment, and, in some cases, even violence.

Britannica notes that as incel communities established themselves on platforms like Reddit and 4chan, the term shifted from its initial meaning. By 2010, it was linked to misogynistic trolling and threats of violence from men's rights groups operating on fringe right-wing platforms.

The Rise of Incel Culture and the "Manosphere"

Incel culture is often intertwined with the broader "manosphere," a collection of websites, blogs, and online forums promoting various ideologies around masculinity, relationships, and gender roles. These spaces can range from self-help communities to platforms espousing extreme misogyny and anti-feminist views.

The Netflix drama Adolescence explores this very landscape, showcasing how toxic masculinity and ideas propagated within the manosphere can lead to dangerous and violent behaviour. The series, filmed in a single take, follows a group of young men navigating these complex issues, highlighting the potential for radicalisation through online echo chambers.

Adolescence: A Reflection of Reality?

Adolescence has sparked considerable debate about its portrayal of incel culture and its potential impact on viewers. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) reports that the series delves into the themes of incels and Andrew-Tate-style misogyny, raising important questions about the influence of online ideologies on young men. NBC News similarly highlights the series' exploration of toxic masculinity and the online "manosphere."

Stephen Graham, the actor involved in the series, has expressed concern about the rise of "misogynistic tendencies" and believes that society is "all accountable to an extent" in finding solutions. He suggests Adolescence aims to reflect the realities of this online world and provoke discussion about its consequences.

The Writer's Perspective: Social Media and Vulnerable Minds

Jack Thorne, the writer of Adolescence, has even suggested a radical approach to combat the spread of toxic ideas: denying children access to social media. While this suggestion is unverified, it underscores the deep concern surrounding the impact of online platforms on vulnerable young minds. Thorne believes that social media can expose children to harmful ideologies and contribute to the rise of incel culture.

Understanding the Language: Chads, Stacys, and Beckys

The incel community has developed its own unique vocabulary, often used to categorise and denigrate individuals based on their perceived attractiveness and sexual activity. Some common terms include:

• Chad: An attractive and sexually successful man, often seen as the ideal that incels believe is unattainable.
• Stacy: An attractive woman who is only interested in "Chads," according to incel ideology.
• Becky: A more "average" woman who is still considered unattainable by incels.

These terms are used to reinforce the incel worldview, which often blames women for their perceived lack of romantic success.

The Dangers of Incel Ideology

Incel ideology can be incredibly harmful, both to individuals within the community and to society as a whole. It often promotes:

• Misogyny: A deep-seated hatred and distrust of women.
• Entitlement: The belief that men are entitled to sex and relationships.
• Violence: In extreme cases, incel ideology can lead to acts of violence against women.

The Southern Poverty Law Center has classified the incel ideology as part of the male supremacist ideology.

The 80/20 Dating Rule: A Misogynistic Myth?

The London Evening Standard recently published an opinion piece debunking the "80/20 dating rule," a concept often circulated within the manosphere. This rule claims that 80% of women are only interested in the top 20% of men, reinforcing the incel belief that most men are destined to be alone. The article argues that this rule is not only inaccurate but also contributes to a harmful and misogynistic view of relationships.

The Impact on Australian Society

While incel culture may seem like a niche online phenomenon, its impact can be felt in Australian society. The spread of misogynistic ideas online can contribute to a climate of disrespect and hostility towards women, potentially leading to real-world violence and discrimination.

Furthermore, the isolation and despair experienced by individuals within the incel community can have serious mental health consequences. It's crucial to address the root causes of these feelings and provide support for those struggling with loneliness and social isolation.

Moving Forward: Addressing the Problem

Combating incel ideology requires a multi-faceted approach:

• Education: Teaching young people about healthy relationships, consent, and gender equality.
• Critical Thinking: Encouraging critical thinking skills to help individuals identify and reject harmful online ideologies.
• Mental Health Support: Providing access to mental health services for those struggling with loneliness, social isolation, and feelings of inadequacy.
• Online Regulation: Addressing the spread of hate speech and misogynistic content on online platforms.
• Promoting Positive Masculinity: Encouraging men to embrace healthy and respectful expressions of masculinity.

The Future Outlook: A Call for Change

The rise of incel culture is a symptom of deeper societal problems, including gender inequality, social isolation, and the pressures of modern life. Addressing these issues requires a collective effort from individuals, communities, and governments.

By promoting education, critical thinking, and mental health support, we can help to create a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone feels valued and respected. Adolescence, while controversial, serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of unchecked toxic masculinity and the importance of addressing these issues head-on. It prompts us to consider how we can foster a more positive and supportive online environment for young Australians, protecting them from harmful ideologies and promoting healthy relationships.