New Books in Sociology Simon James Copland, "The Male Complaint: The Manosphere and Misogyny Online" (Polity, 2025)
Sep 12, 2025
Simon James Copland, an Honorary Fellow at the Australian National University, dives into the troubling world of the online Manosphere in his insightful examination. He discusses how figures like Andrew Tate and Jordan Peterson shape anti-feminist narratives, and explores the historical scapegoating of women during societal crises. Copland critiques simplistic views on masculinity, emphasizing the need for nuanced dialogue to address male grievances and combat rising nationalism. His work prompts essential conversations on fostering understanding and community engagement amid this complex issue.
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Four Factions Within The Manosphere
- The manosphere contains distinct groups: men's rights, incels, pickup artists, and Men Going Their Own Way.
- Each group shares anti‑feminist ideology but offers different remedies, from courses to withdrawal.
Neoliberalism And Scapegoating
- Economic insecurity and neoliberalism fuel turn to simple scapegoating narratives blaming women or migrants.
- Copland connects manosphere growth to broader far‑right and conspiracy ecosystems.
Lost Mission To Manhood Replaced By Vanity
- The 'mission to manhood' provided purpose; neoliberalism hollowed it out and replaced it with vain, individualistic 'ornamental' aims.
- Manosphere leaders recycle individual self‑help as a false solution to structural problems.
