The Pervert’s Guide to Social Media: Andrew Tate, Aspirational Fascism and digital hyperreality

11/12/2024 - 11/12/2024

6pm - 8pm

CTC 1.01

Authorities and concerned stakeholders, especially those working with younger and more socio-economico-politically-marginalised populations, continue to play a game of catch-up with the consequences of the rapid digitalisation of society, confronting matters such as radicalisation through video games, and grooming on social media. Of especial concern is the growing appeal of the influencer Andrew Tate, whose messaging has led to the increasing acceptance of misogynistic viewpoints within young men, alongside other reactionary positions such as queerphobia and an increased drive towards neoliberal economics. This paper will explore the wider socio-politico-economic conditions that creates the resentments upon which Andrew Tate derives his support from, as well as the institutional and ideological mechanisms that sustain his influence. A prime example of the influencerification of politics amid the increasing digitisation of life, the final part of this paper will be devoted to discussing examples and implications of this phenomenon in the dynamics of contemporary liberal democracy, and the potential challenges arising from it.

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