What's happened
Recent surveys reveal stark differences between generations of men regarding gender roles. Younger men, especially Gen Z, hold more traditional and conservative views, including beliefs about female obedience, independence, and household responsibilities. These attitudes contrast sharply with older generations, raising concerns about future gender equality.
What's behind the headline?
The data underscores a significant cultural shift among young men, driven largely by social media and online echo chambers that reinforce traditional masculinity. The rise of 'red pill' ideology and influencers like Andrew Tate exemplify this trend, promoting misogynistic and conservative views. Meanwhile, older generations remain more progressive, reflecting the societal gains of the 1960s and 70s. This generational divide will likely influence future voting patterns and social policies, potentially hindering gender equality efforts. The discrepancy between personal beliefs and societal expectations suggests a societal pressure that may entrench traditional roles, especially among men, despite individual progressive attitudes. This tension could lead to increased polarization on gender issues, impacting political discourse and policy-making in the coming years.
What the papers say
The Scotsman reports that older generations are more progressive, with only 13% of Baby Boomer men supporting traditional female obedience, compared to 31% of Gen Z men. The NY Post highlights that 31% of Gen Z men believe a wife should always obey her husband, with many endorsing submissive roles. The Independent emphasizes that Gen Z men are twice as likely as Baby Boomers to hold traditional views on decision-making, influenced by online spaces and social media influencers. All sources agree that social media and cultural norms heavily influence young men's attitudes, with experts warning that these trends threaten ongoing gender equality progress.
How we got here
The surveys, conducted across 29 countries by Ipsos and the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership at King’s College London, reveal a persistent gap between personal beliefs and perceived societal expectations. Younger men tend to hold more conservative views, influenced by online communities and social media, despite broader societal progress towards gender equality. This divergence raises concerns about future social and political dynamics.
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Ipsos Group S.A. is a multinational market research with headquarters in Paris, France. The company was founded in 1975 by Didier Truchot, Chairman and CEO, and has been publicly traded on the Paris Stock Exchange since July 1, 1999.