The Darkest Corners of the Internet with Elle Reeve
Mar 4, 2025
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Elle Reeve, a CNN correspondent and author of "Black Pill," dives into the alarming rise of internet trolls influencing U.S. politics. She reveals how online extremism, particularly from groups like incels and the alt-right, has shifted from the shadows to the mainstream. Elle dissects toxic ideologies shaping young men's perceptions of masculinity and the real-world consequences of online hate. The conversation also touches on the role of influential figures in amplifying these disturbing beliefs and the emotional struggles faced by those within these extremist communities.
Online trolls have infiltrated American politics, shifting from dark corners of the internet to influencing governmental policies and cultural norms.
The rise of incel culture showcases a toxic ideology blaming feminism for men's romantic failures, fostering hostility towards women and redefining masculinity.
Right-wing movements now prioritize image and bravado over substantive policies, reflecting a shift in political engagement that normalizes outrageous behavior in mainstream dialogue.
Deep dives
The Rise of Troll Culture in Politics
The podcast discusses how the tactics and ideas of online trolls have infiltrated mainstream American culture, significantly influencing political discourse. It mentions that many prominent figures who were once considered as merely internet trolls are now embedded in governmental positions and shaping policies. An example highlighted is Andrew Tate, whose actions are connected to the Trump administration's influence, indicating a blurred line between trolling and a serious political agenda. This trend illustrates a troubling intersection where the outrageous behavior of internet figures translates into real-life political actions and cultural values.
The Incels and the Manosphere
The conversation highlights the emergence of incel culture, which stems from a belief that men are losing romantic opportunities due to feminism and women’s choices. The incel ideology fosters a toxic environment that blames external factors for personal failings, generating hostility towards women. It discusses the concept of negging, a tactic believed to aid in attracting women, which further perpetuates misogynistic viewpoints among men who feel disenfranchised. This culture has become mainstream, influencing broader dialogues regarding masculinity and relationships in society.
Vibes Over Ideas: The New Political Landscape
The podcast emphasizes a shift in political engagement, where the style and attitude of the right-wing movement have become more influential than ideological substance. It describes how figures like J.D. Vance and Mike Cernovich focus on projecting confidence and bravado rather than discussing concrete policy ideas. This phenomenon reflects a desire among supporters to align with what is perceived as 'cool' or 'based', prioritizing image over deep ideological commitments. As a result, this creates an environment where the outrageous becomes normalized and shapes mainstream political attitudes.
The Intersection of Ideologies and Their Consequences
The dialogue explores the complex relationship between various right-wing subcultures, including white nationalists and incels, and how they interact in today's political arena. It highlights how these groups, despite differing priorities, often converge around a shared disdain for societal norms, leading to a dangerous mix of extreme ideologies. For instance, discussions among former white nationalists reveal confusion regarding the misogyny of incel culture, suggesting an ideological clash that complicates their goals. These intersections showcase the evolving nature of extremist ideologies in contemporary politics, posing significant risks for social cohesion.
Digital Culture's Impact on Real-World Violence
The podcast touches on the alarming consequences of online extremist ideologies, suggesting a direct link between these beliefs and real-world violence. It cites examples such as mass shootings motivated by hatred and nihilism, where perpetrators sought to achieve notoriety within online communities. The notion of 'accelerationism' is introduced, expressing a twisted belief among some extremists that violence is a means to hasten societal breakdown. This connection underscores a chilling reality where the internet not only influences attitudes but can catalyze dangerous actions in the real world.
Trolls have basically taken possession of the U.S. government. How have trolls been able to go from being mostly cordoned off in dark parts of the internet to gaining so much influence in American culture and politics? Our guest this week has spent years researching and reporting on-the-ground to learn more about how the battle online between the right and the left has moved into the real world. Elle Reeve is a correspondent at CNN and the author of “Black Pill: How I Witnessed the Darkest Corners of the Internet Come to Life, Poison Society, and Capture American Politics.” She joins WITHpod to discuss the politics of “black pilled” and “red pilled” young men, the ways in which online extremism so often translates into political violence and more.
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