Echo Chambers of Resentment: The Internet’s Role in Male Supremacist Identity Formation

• In Event: Critical Perspectives on Emergent and Current Issues II

Abstract

Women’s increased sexual and reproductive autonomy, denial of romantic relationships in favor of independence, and rise in educational, career achievements have left men feeling lonely, unimportant, and fearful about their role in society. Perhaps desiring to reclaim dominant status and alleviate anxieties, some men actively seek male supremacist communities, while others seeking validating and supportive content may stumble into them. As misogynistic content online has soared in recent years, men are able to choose online communities (e.g., incels, men going their own way [MGTOW]) that align with their belief systems. Utilizing the concept of aggrieved entitlement (Kalish & Kimmel, 2010), this article 1) explores how shared terminology, beliefs about masculinity, and anti-feminist rhetoric shape and maintain male supremacist identities, and whether there are notable differences by subgroups and 2) considers the short and long term social, economic, and political ramifications of these male supremacist groups, particularly as men are becoming radicalized in adolescence and emerging adulthood. This article argues online radicalization of young men, in the context of increasingly violent and regressive policies aimed against women, will increase the likelihood of violence against women and more regressive policies unless addressed immediately.

Authors

• Brandie Pugh, West Virginia University

• Elizabeth Moberly, West Virginia University

• Ericka Y. Portillo, West Virginia University

• Mackenzie Freeman, West Virginia University