The Jordan Harbinger Show 1275: Incels | Skeptical Sunday
Jan 25, 2026
Nick Pell, writer-researcher of online subcultures, walks through the rise of incel culture and its roots. He recounts forum dynamics, the blackpill mindset, and how self-help spaces can turn toxic. Discussions cover rare violent acts, surprising demographics, and real recovery paths like therapy, skills-building, and community.
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Origin And Transformation Of 'Incel'
- The term "incel" was coined by a woman in the late 1990s as a gender-neutral support community for lonely people.
- Over time toxicity drove out constructive members and the label shifted toward misogynistic online subcultures.
Combine Grooming With Social Skills
- Work on looks maxing (exercise, grooming, skincare) to improve confidence and dating prospects.
- Pair appearance changes with social skills training because physical change alone often won't help you connect.
Elliot Rodger As The Notorious Example
- Elliot Rodger is the infamous incel who killed six people in the 2014 Isla Vista massacre and left a manifesto.
- He came from money, had autism traits, poor social skills, and intense entitlement that preceded his violence.
