Candice Lim chats with Luke Winkie, a Slate writer exploring cultural phenomena, and Max Read, a Substack writer who coined the term 'Zynternet'. They dissect the peculiar 'Zynternet' community—fratty, provocative young men hooked on college sports and nicotine pouches. The trio discusses whether this group's antics are merely performative or a genuine cultural shift. They delve into themes of toxic masculinity, apathy, and the online behaviors that define these millennials and Gen Zers, questioning the balance between entertainment and political engagement.
The Z-Internet represents a unique online culture among young men that balances humor and lightheartedness while rejecting conventional political norms.
Zin nicotine pouches play a significant role in shaping the Z-Internet lifestyle, symbolizing both party culture and consumer habits within this community.
Deep dives
Understanding Z-Internet
The Z-Internet refers to a specific online culture primarily associated with young men from middle America who engage in apolitical and often humorous content. It encompasses various platforms, including Barstool Sports and podcasts like Call Me Daddy, and is characterized by a somewhat right-leaning, yet not rigidly partisan attitude. This community thrives on lighthearted content that distracts from political discourse, which often overwhelms other online spaces. The term originated from writer Max Reed, highlighting the necessity of a female figure like the ‘Hawk Tua Girl’ to represent the unique dynamics between Z-Internet boys and girls.
The Role of Zin
Zin, a form of nicotine pouch similar to chewing tobacco, has become emblematic of the Z-Internet lifestyle, particularly among young men. This product facilitates a party culture that aligns well with the community's preferences, fostering an image of casual rebellion against conventional norms. Zin capsules are notably marketed towards young men and have established a reputation for inducing strong effects, prompting discussions about their health implications. As Zin continues to dominate the market, it exemplifies the consumer habits and cultural affiliations of the Z-Internet demographic.
The Z-Internet's Political Landscape
The political views of the Z-Internet often appear incoherent, oscillating between apolitical stances and unexpected leanings toward right-leaning ideologies. This community, which thrives on a nostalgic view of early 2000s humor and frat-style antics, tends to reject traditional political norms while also inadvertently aligning with them. Many individuals within this realm are drawn to influencers who represent their shared interests rather than a coherent political philosophy, suggesting a disconnect from broader societal issues. The perception of the Z-Internet as a conservative phenomenon may stem from the cultural anxiety surrounding contemporary left-leaning movements, illustrating the difficulty in categorizing their social and political identities.
Cultural Dynamics and Female Representation
The presence of women within the Z-Internet is complex and often tethered to the interests of male counterparts, raising questions about the female experience in this space. The typical Z-Internet female figure may embody characteristics that both embrace and resist traditional femininity, creating a tension between empowerment and objectification. While the community can promote bonding over shared interests, there exist underlying retrograde ideas regarding gender roles and expectations. This blend of whimsical fun and darker implications signals potential consequences, as the dynamics of such online spaces can shape perceptions of masculinity and femininity in troubling ways.
Candice Lim is joined by Slate writer Luke Winkie to break down the curiously indefinable “Zynternet.” Substack writer Max Read coined and defined the term as “a broad community of fratty, horndog, boorishly provocative” (mostly) men in their 20s and 30s who obsess over college sports, light domestic beers and Zyn nicotine pouches. On today’s episode, ICYMI asks who the “Zynternet” is performing for and whether its rise is a backlash against brat summer.
This podcast is produced by Se’era Spragley Ricks, Daisy Rosario and Candice Lim.