In a conversation with Dr Alice Evans for the Atlantic, Jerusalem Demsas explores the complex reality behind recent headlines suggesting a dramatic rise in sexist attitudes among young men. Dr Evans, whose research examines gender attitudes across different societies, challenges the simplistic narrative of increasing misogyny among younger generations.
Recent headlines proclaiming a dramatic surge in sexist attitudes among young men have captured public attention, but academics suggest a different reality beneath the alarming proclamations.
In a recent interview led by Jerusalem Demsas published in the Atlantic, Dr Alice Evans from Kings College London point to a complex web of factors influencing gender attitudes among younger generations, challenging simplistic narratives of increasing misogyny.
While much of human history has been characterized by patriarchal structures, Evans notes that the 20th century saw significant progress toward gender equality in many regions. However, recent trends show young men in various countries expressing what she terms “hostile sexism” – a resentment of women’s perceived gains rather than traditional “benevolent sexism” that merely sought to protect women.
Evans identifies three main structural drivers behind these shifting attitudes among young men. First is status competition, which has intensified as young men face increasing difficulty securing traditional markers of success: prestigious university admissions, property ownership, and romantic relationships. Second, growing economic inequality has heightened concerns about relative social position, particularly as the gap between wages and housing prices widens. Third, the dating market has undergone significant changes, with 39% of adult American men currently unpartnered – a situation Evans attributes to women’s increased economic independence and reduced social stigma around being single.
The role of social media emerges as a crucial factor in Evans’s analysis. Rather than facilitating understanding across gender lines, social platforms often create echo chambers that reinforce existing views. Short-form content, particularly 30-second videos, fails to build empathy, while algorithms tend to promote extreme viewpoints. Men who feel rejected in dating or professional contexts may find online communities that reinforce negative attitudes toward women.
These patterns aren’t limited to any single country. Evans points to similar trends across developed nations, from the European Union to South Korea and Qatar, where young men are more likely than their older counterparts to view women’s rights as threatening. However, the dynamic shifts in regions like Indonesia, where both young men and women may support traditional gender roles, highlighting the importance of cultural context.
Evans concludes by offering potential solutions to address these challenges. These include reducing status inequality through improved housing affordability, encouraging more in-person interactions over social media engagement, regulating social media algorithms, and creating opportunities for genuine cross-gender understanding. Throughout the interview, she emphasizes that these trends result from a complex interplay of economic factors, cultural changes, and technological developments.
Originally published in The Atlantic December 29, 2024. For more detailed analysis and insights, read the full interview with Jerusalem Demsas in The Atlantic.