The drift to the manosphere – should we be worried for our young men?

• The drift to the manosphere – should we be worried for our young men?
  

  Are young men being persuaded by dangerous ideas in the manosphere? This digital ecosystem of male-centred content and communities ranges from self-improvement to overt misogyny has resulted in moral outrage. But do we know enough about it and why it is attracting young men.

  At our June event, (10^th June 2026) two eminent researchers in this field will discuss whether the drift of young men to these dangerous ideas is as widespread as portrayed. They will also examine the factors driving the drift and the broader socio-political and economic context which attracts young men to these ideas 

• Amanda Keddie is a Professor of Education at Deakin University whose research focuses  on gender, masculinities, social justice, and education. Her most recent project with the eSafety commission explored the online lives of young men and provided insight into their digital agency and criticality when navigating online harms. Amanda’s research spans education and broader contexts in Australia, England, and the USA, with a particular focus on addressing gender-based violence through education. 

• Dr Simon Copland is an honorary fellow at the School of Sociology at the Australian  National University. His research focuses on masculinity, men's rights and online extremism. He recently released his book, The Male Complaint: The Manosphere and Online Misogyny, through Polity Press.

Together they will challenge whether young men’s involvement with online spaces is as damaging as portrayed. While recognising the harm of the misogyny and violence promoted in some of these spaces, they will discuss whether current approaches of demonising young men’s involvement is working, or whether a change in approach is needed.

Event Details:
WHEN: Wednesday June 10^th, 2026, 6.00pm – 7.30pm

WHERE: Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club

ENTRY: Complimentary for members. A $10 donation is requested from casual attendees.

The event will also be live-streamed on the Newcastle Institute Facebook page.

Please register online as a member or guest.

https://newcastleinstitute.wildapricot.org/event-6715347