Netflix’s latest series titled “Adolescence” not only presents stories about teenage life but also addresses the issue of incel or involuntary celibacy phenomenon. The series exposes the dark side of the online world through the character Jamie in a community harboring hatred towards women and potentially inciting violence. Incel phenomenon, mentioned in the series, opens up important discussions regarding toxic masculinity, loneliness, and the potential for gender-based violence. So, what exactly is incel and why is its emergence considered a new threat in both the online and real world? Here is an explanation, compiled from various sources.
Incel stands for involuntary celibate, describing men who feel unable to engage in sexual or romantic relationships not by choice but because they feel rejected by women or the social system. They typically blame women for their suffering. The term was coined in 1997 by a woman named Alana who created an online platform as a support group for lonely men and women. The community was initially inclusive and neutral, but over time, some groups within it transformed into spaces filled with hatred towards women, conspiracy theories, and glorification of violence.
Writer and women’s activist Kalis Mardiasih describes incel as lonely men uncomfortable with their status, blaming women for only being interested in certain dominant men physically, economically, or socially. The incel phenomenon is part of the broader ecosystem known as the manosphere, an online community inhabited by various groups of men with misogynistic views. Research has shown that forums within the manosphere often position women as mere objects and scapegoats for frustration or failure in relationships.
From the online world to actual violence, incidents of violence in various countries have been associated with perpetrators identifying as incel. Studies have linked the Toronto (2018) and California (2014) shootings to incel ideology morphing into forms of domestic terrorism. Research also highlights that many perpetrators have a background of social isolation, feelings of inferiority, and difficulty in forming healthy interpersonal relationships, trapped in an online algorithm reinforcing hate narratives and directing their frustration towards misogynistic extremism.
Real data from international institutions shows a significant increase in the dissemination of misogynistic content in incel forums. Academics note a dramatic rise in daily ‘violent content’ posts against women in recent years. The Southern Poverty Law Center warns that incel culture can evolve into toxic masculinities that, if not addressed, may lead to violence against women and minorities. Blocking incel forums alone is insufficient. A comprehensive strategy involving digital education, gender literacy, mental health awareness, and stricter monitoring of online content with violence potential is needed.
The series “Adolescence” sparks essential discussions on how the online world, especially social media and forums, can shape the thoughts and behaviors of adolescents. The incel phenomenon is not just about “lonely singlehood” but a complex social issue that requires attention from all sides. Understanding the root of the incel issue and strengthening values of empathy, gender equality, and psychosocial support for teenagers are crucial steps in preventing gender-based radicalizations increasingly prevalent in the digital age.
