The recent surge of violence worldwide has shed light on an online subculture known as the Incel Movement, sparking questions about its nature and implications. The movement re-emerged prominently in the public eye following a deadly incident in Plymouth, UK, where a 22-year-old man took the lives of five individuals, including a toddler.
About the Incel Movement
The Incel Movement is an online community made up of men who label themselves as ‘involuntary celibates’. Members of this group often vocalise deep-rooted misogynistic views against women. They harbour strong resentment towards women and sexually active men based on their belief that their own sexual and social shortcomings are brought upon by women. Attitudes within the group differ; some even assert that sex is a fundamental right they’re entitled to by virtue of being male. An extremist faction within the group advocates for violence against women. However, experts clarify that not every member of this subculture resorts to violence.
Red Pill & Black Pill Mentality Explained
Commonly associated with the incel community is the ‘black pill’ theory – a defeatist ideology suggesting that one’s destiny, particularly sexual successes or failures, is predetermined at birth and unalterable regardless of any efforts towards change. Alternatively, the ‘red pillers’ believe in a world skewed in favour of women, perceiving feminism as female supremacy. They argue that societal systems are biased towards women, giving them unfair advantages.
Concerns Surrounding the Incel Movement
The Incel Movement is considered part of a larger trend where young white males are getting radicalised online. It reflects similarities with the well-known alt-right movement, where both groups attribute societal issues to social liberalism, women and ethnic minorities. The term ‘alt-right’ refers to a loosely connected far-right, white nationalist movement.
Contrary to violent attacks by other far-right ideologies, incel-related attacks are currently not perceived as a significant terror threat in the US, based on an analysis by the New America Foundation. However, the same research suggested that terrorism connected to the Incel Movement is deadlier than far-left terrorism.
Rising Incidents of Incel-Related Violence
Incidents linked to the Incel Movement are rising, leading to increased scrutiny. While some stakeholders may argue that not all members are violent, the movement’s extreme ideologies have been associated with several cases of violence, shining a spotlight on the potentially dangerous implications of this subculture. The need for continued vigilance, both online and in society, is clear to curb the growth and influence of such radical groups.
