The radicalization of young white men: dominant emotional characteristics and traits of online hate

Abstract

On August 12, 2021, a tragic mass shooting occurred in Plymouth, England, starting the exploration into the roots of hatred and extremism, particularly among young white men. This investigates the intersectionality of white supremacy and toxic masculinity, focusing on the emotional characteristics leading individuals to online hate groups. Centered on three major groups – Incels, the Proud Boys, and America First and Canada First – the study addresses three key questions on the motivations for joining, dominant emotional characteristics, and the variations between the groups. Guided by A General Theories of Hate Crime, this research employs qualitative methodologies, analyzing the online free spaces for each group. The findings highlight the hate and anger each group possess, and feelings of isolation, sadness, and joy. The discussion chapter uses the identified themes and emotions linking them to theory and literature to provide a nuanced understanding of the motivations fueling online hate.