In this discussion, Chiara Brown, Commissioning Editor at The Times Luxury, and Meera Choi, a sociology academic at Yale, explore the provocative 4B movement from South Korea, advocating for 'No sex, no babies, no marriage, no men.' They delve into its viral spread in America, fueled by reactions to misogyny and political shifts. Key topics include how the movement empowers women, the implications of declining fertility rates, and the necessity for gender collaboration in advancing equality. This dynamic conversation uncovers a shifting narrative in women’s rights.
The 4B movement gains traction in the U.S. as women respond to rising misogyny and political anxieties post-Trump's election.
By advocating for refusal of traditional relationships, the movement challenges societal norms while raising questions about future collaboration with men.
Deep dives
The Emergence of the 4B Movement
The 4B movement originated in South Korea as a reaction to rising misogyny and violence against women, particularly following high-profile incidents that showcased systemic gender inequity. This movement advocates for women to refuse relationships with men, including sex, dating, marriage, and childbearing. It gained popularity after the Me Too movement, where women began discussing their struggles and the dangers they face in a patriarchal society. The movement's name encapsulates its core tenets, empowering women to reject societal expectations and foster solidarity against male dominance.
Impact of the 2016 Election on Women's Rights
Following Donald Trump's election, a heightened sense of anxiety among women arose due to his track record and rhetoric regarding women's rights, particularly concerning reproductive health and accusations of sexual misconduct. This unease fueled interest in the 4B movement in the U.S., with significant surges in online discussions and searches about the movement. Many women expressed a desire to explore radical solutions to perceived threats against their autonomy. The political climate, characterized by increasing right-wing ideologies, contributed to a feeling of urgency and solidarity among those advocating for the movement.
Cultural Connections and Evolving Feminism
The growing popularity of the 4B movement in the United States has sparked discussions about its implications for women’s roles and their relationships with men. Historical parallels can be drawn from previous instances where women withheld their services to demand change, such as the Lysistrata play in ancient Greece. Many women are now reconsidering traditional relationships in light of changing societal expectations and challenges to their rights. Although some view the movement's approach as a necessary assertion of agency, concerns remain about its sustainability and the need for collaboration with men to achieve meaningful societal change.
No sex, no babies, no marriage, no men. In 2018 a niche feminist movement started in South Korea as a reaction to the country’s entrenched misogyny. It pledged four ‘nos’ when it came to men. Now it's spreading on social media to America as young women rebel against Donald Trump's election. But how impactful will it be?
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Host: Manveen Rana.
Guests:
Chiara Brown, Commissioning Editor, The Times Luxury.
Meera Choi, Sociology Academic, Yale University.
Clips: TikTok / trump-supporters01 / Sigma Nu Fraternity, Karim Jovian / Nick Fuentes / YouTube, OFF TOPIC SHOW / Nick Funetes / YouTube, Nick Funetes / brutamerica / Instagram, realityreelclips / TikTok, The Washington Post / Access Hollywood, thetimes / TikTok, CBS, CNN, The News Movement, Inside Edition, Arirang News.