SOC 427 - Sociology of the Manosphere

This class will investigate contemporary issues in masculinity, with a focus on the network of websites and groups often referred to as “the manosphere.” We will primarily study these groups in English-speaking countries, although we will explore global dimensions of this reactionary movement. The manosphere is a loosely connected network of online communities espousing various degrees of anti-feminist politics. It has been described as “toxic technoculture” and “networked misogyny.” On the moderate side of the manosphere are lifestyle, sports, and wellness podcasts and YouTube channels that are not centrally about gender or masculinity. The more virulent sites, such as those maintained by “incels” on the dark web, are stridently and violently misogynistic. In between are various groups including pickup artists, men’s rights activists, red-pillers, and other overlapping online communities The course will cover a range of topics including the various branches of the movement, their links with violent extremism and the extreme right, pathways to radicalization, the loneliness epidemic among men, implications for electoral politics, and the organizing role of social media, gaming, and other sites of online organization. Readings will come not only from sociology, but also from media studies, psychology, and political science. As an upper division elective, the course will focus on discussing and writing about sociological research on the manosphere.

Prerequisites & Notes: SOC 302, SOC 304, and SOC 306.
Credits: 5
Grade Mode: Letter
WP Points: 1