Manosphere's Political Influence Discussed

Nick Cohen talks to author James Bloodworth about his new book which explores the toxic so-called "Manosphere", focusing on its origins and influence, particularly in the context of political movements like Donald Trump's campaign. James highlighted his book, "Lost Boys," which explores the manosphere's impact and is set to be released on June 5th.

Origins of the Manosphere Movement

James explained the origins of the manosphere, which emerged from pickup artist communities in the early 2000s. He described how pickup artists viewed seduction as a science and gender relations as a power game, attracting both men seeking advice on social interactions and those with darker, manipulative intentions. James noted that the movement often targeted neurodivergent men and sold expensive courses based on essentialist gender ideas, leading to a culture focused on conquest and objectification of women.

Pickup Culture and Online Extremism

James discussed his experience with a pickup boot camp, describing it as expensive and objectifying, but noting that some counterintuitive advice, such as being more of a challenge rather than nice, was helpful. He explained how the pickup artist scene evolved into more political and conspiratorial rhetoric, leading to the emergence of the Incel movement and increased misogyny. James also highlighted the role of algorithms in radicalising individuals by funnelling them towards increasingly dark and political content online.

Manosphere Radicals and Social Influence

James and Nick discussed the radicalisation process within the manosphere and how figures like Jordan Peterson can unintentionally influence their audience towards extreme right-wing views. James explained that content creators often lean into controversial topics to increase their audience and revenue, which can lead to self-radicalisation. They also touched on the phenomenon of "gamer gaze," where young men online suddenly turn against women, and the role of social media algorithms in promoting extreme content. The conversation highlighted the complex interplay between individual circumstances, cultural messages, and the influence of charismatic figures in shaping political and social views.

Right-Wing Resurgence in the 2010s

James discussed the rise of right-wing movements in the 2010s, focusing on how liberal feminism and identity politics created resentment among certain groups. They explored how this resentment was harnessed by right-wing influencers and politicians, including Donald Trump and Nigel Farage, who capitalized on "loser culture" and anti-establishment sentiment. James highlighted the shift in media and journalism towards clickbait and contrarian content, which helped spread right-wing ideologies.

Read all about it!

James Bloodworth, @J_Bloodworth, the author of The Lost Boys, A personal journey through the Manosphere published on June 5th by Atlantic Books

Nick Cohen's regular Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond is another must-read.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UK Economic Stagnation Analysis

Nick Cohen @NickCohen4 talks to Simon Nixon @Simon_Nixon discussed the UK's economic stagnation since 2008, highlighting the impact of financial sector reliance, austerity policies, and Brexit. They analysed Keir Starmer's recent EU trade deal, noting modest improvements but emphasising its limited impact on addressing broader economic challenges. Simon suggested that deeper EU integration could yield greater economic benefits, while Andrew questioned whether rejoining the EU would be politically feasible.

Businesses Navigate Political Party Challenges

Nick Cohen & Simon Nixon discuss the challenges businesses face in aligning with political parties, particularly the Conservative Party, due to its current opposition to policies beneficial for business, such as the Brexit deal and trade agreements with India. They noted that businesses may seek alternatives to advance their agendas, given the presence of multiple parties in the political landscape. Simon highlighted the economic impact of the recent National Insurance rise, which was implemented to fund social care but has been met with skepticism and uncertainty about its long-term effects on employment and inflation.

Economic Policy Challenges and Solutions

Simon and Nick discussed the challenges of economic policy, particularly the reliance on low tax rates and central banks to stimulate growth. They agreed that raising taxes is necessary to reduce debt and ease pressure on central banks, as seen in both the UK and US.

Economic Challenges in UK and US

The discussion focused on the economic challenges facing both the UK and the US, with Simon Nixon highlighting how Liz Truss's fiscal policies have left limited room for manoeuver before requiring tax increases or spending cuts. Nixon compared the US situation under Donald Trump, noting that while Trump's tax cuts were temporary, his administration is now pushing through a budget that would increase the deficit by $3.3 trillion over the next decade, primarily to prevent tax rates from rising.

Global Economic Challenges and Reforms

Simon discussed the global economic challenges facing various countries, including Britain, France, Germany, and Italy, emphasising that no country has a perfect solution. He highlighted the impact of technology, particularly AI, on employment and the need for bold administrative reforms to improve state management. Simon also touched on the Labour Party's sudden rise to power and the lack of comprehensive plans upon taking office, noting the difficulty of implementing significant reforms while in government.

Simon Nixon's Substack column Wealth of Nations is one of the best and most insightful reads on economics and finance. His latest column - Europe's Crippling Risk Aversion - is here.

Nick Cohen's regular Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond is another must-read.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nick Cohen talks to Russia expert Ian Garner

Nick Cohen and Dr Ian Garner discussed the impact of Vladimir Putin on global affairs and the ongoing war in Ukraine, with Ian highlighting the strict government control, lack of free speech, and severe punishments for dissent in Russia. They also discussed the economic impact of the war, the rise of fascism in Russia, and the Russian government's propaganda tactics. The conversation ended with a discussion on the political landscape in Russia, the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and the cultural and historical factors that contribute to Russia's inclination towards war.

Putin's Impact on Global Affairs

Nick Cohen introduces the podcast "The Lowdown" and welcomes guest Ian Garner, an academic authority on Russia. They discuss the impact of Vladimir Putin on global affairs and the ongoing war in Ukraine. Ian explains that despite Russia suffering an estimated 900,000 casualties in the war, the country hasn't fallen apart due to strict government control, lack of free speech, and severe punishments for dissent.

Political Prisoners in Putin's Russia

Ian discussed the increasing number of political prisoners in Putin's Russia, surpassing the Soviet Union's post-Stalin era. He highlighted the return of old techniques like psychiatric institutions and show trials, and the lack of a fair legal system in Russia. Ian also touched on the militarization of Russian culture, both historically and under the Putin regime, and the government's strategy of bribing people to join the military.

Rise of Fascism in Russia

Ian and Nick discussed the rise of fascism in Russia, tracing its roots to the late Soviet era when dissident groups emerged, including neo-Nazi and nationalist movements. They noted the disappointment of many Russians with the experience of democracy in the 1990s, which led to the rise of a nationalist, irredentist, and revanchist bloc.

Russian Propaganda Tactics and Control

Ian discussed the Russian government's propaganda tactics, including creating multiple narratives to shape public opinion and reality. He noted that these tactics are effective, despite being crude, and that they allow the government to maintain control and manipulate public perception. Ian also compared the current situation to the aftermath of the Soviet-Afghan war, where similar tactics were used to control public opinion.

Dr Ian Garner @irgarner is professor of Russia, war, propaganda @ Pilecki Institute & author of Z Generation: Russia's Fascist Youth. His next book -co-authored - Russia and Modern Fascism is out August 5th.

Nick Cohen's @NickCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.