'They want to feel like men': Why is gen Z turning to rightwing politics?

Summary

The video explores the rise of right-wing politics among young men, particularly in the context of economic struggles, cultural shifts, and societal expectations. Young men are increasingly feeling disillusioned due to rising living costs, the breakdown of traditional family structures, and the influence of social media. Experts and everyday individuals discuss the pressures faced by young men, from competition in dating to feelings of disempowerment. The video also delves into political movements like Jordan Peterson's and the rise of parties like Reform, which seem to resonate with young men seeking meaning and stability in an ever-changing world.

Takeaways

• 😀 Young men are increasingly drawn to right-wing politics due to challenges in education, job opportunities, and rising economic pressures.
• 😀 While some argue that economic factors like automation are to blame, others suggest that cultural issues, like the impact of the sexual revolution, are contributing to this shift.
• 😀 Jordan Peterson's messages of self-discipline and masculinity resonate with many young men seeking a sense of purpose and control in modern society.
• 😀 There is a growing perception that the empowerment of women, especially in education and career, has led to role reversals, making it harder for young men to form relationships.
• 😀 Many young men feel disconnected from traditional family structures, which they view as a major factor in societal breakdown and personal struggles.
• 😀 Social media is blamed for raising unrealistic expectations, making dating and relationships more competitive and less attainable for young men.
• 😀 Women’s increased career focus and freedom to prioritize singlehood has created an environment where men now must compete with both other men and women’s high standards.
• 😀 Social media, especially platforms like Instagram and TikTok, amplifies unrealistic standards of attractiveness and success, intensifying pressures on young men.
• 😀 Right-wing political movements are capitalizing on young men’s sense of disenfranchisement by offering narratives of self-improvement and the restoration of traditional values.
• 😀 Many young men feel that their voices are not being heard in mainstream politics, but the right-wing, particularly figures like Nigel Farage, are offering a sense of belonging and hope for change.

Q & A

Why are young men increasingly supporting right-wing politics?

The rising support for right-wing politics among young men is often attributed to economic challenges, such as job scarcity and the impacts of automation, as well as a sense of cultural displacement. Some argue that young men are drawn to figures like Jordan Peterson who emphasize traditional masculinity and offer a sense of structure and purpose in a rapidly changing world.

How does the rise of women in education and the workforce impact young men?

The increasing success of women in education and the workforce is seen by some as contributing to a sense of displacement among young men. As women achieve higher educational levels and pursue careers, some young men feel that traditional gender roles are being undermined, leading to frustration and confusion about their roles in society.

What role does social media play in the difficulties young men face in relationships?

Social media amplifies expectations around relationships and self-image, which can make dating more competitive. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok expose young men to idealized versions of relationships, making it harder for them to measure up and leading to feelings of inadequacy and difficulty in forming connections.

What are some of the cultural critiques young men have regarding the breakdown of the family structure?

Many young men, particularly those in right-wing circles, view the breakdown of the traditional family structure as a major societal issue. They believe that the erosion of the nuclear family has led to societal instability, and some argue that the lack of a stable family unit is a key factor in the struggles young men face today.

How do young men feel about their educational and career prospects in the current economic climate?

Many young men express concern about their future prospects, feeling that the current economic environment, with rising housing costs and stagnant wages, makes it more difficult for them to establish themselves. There's a sense that traditional markers of success, like owning a home or starting a family, are becoming increasingly out of reach.

Why is Jordan Peterson such a significant figure for young men in right-wing circles?

Jordan Peterson is a central figure for many young men in right-wing circles because he advocates for self-improvement and traditional masculinity. His advice, such as 'clean your room' and 'shoulders back,' resonates with young men seeking structure and guidance in a world that often feels chaotic and disempowering.

What impact does the rise of singlehood among women have on young men?

The rise of singlehood among women, as they prioritize careers and personal goals, has made dating more competitive for young men. Many men feel that women are increasingly selective and are waiting for 'the one,' which makes it harder for men to find relationships that align with their desires for stability and traditional family roles.

How do young men perceive the political landscape, especially regarding right-wing movements?

Many young men perceive the political landscape as being unresponsive to their concerns, leading them to gravitate towards right-wing movements. These movements often emphasize the restoration of traditional values and address issues such as the empowerment of women and the perceived emasculation of men in modern society.

What is the significance of the 'Reform' party for young men in the UK?

The 'Reform' party in the UK appeals to young men by offering an alternative to the status quo. It emphasizes issues such as the neglect of English citizens, dissatisfaction with the current political system, and promises to restore control to those who feel left behind by both the political establishment and broader societal changes.

How do young men in the UK feel about the influence of political figures like Nigel Farage?

Many young men in the UK find figures like Nigel Farage appealing because he challenges the mainstream political narrative and speaks directly to their sense of disillusionment. His rhetoric about the failures of current political leaders resonates with those who feel their voices are not being heard and who are seeking a leader who represents their concerns.