The article posits that the increasing political divergence between young men and women, with men leaning more right-wing, is primarily rooted in economic factors rather than cultural issues. It challenges the common narratives surrounding social media influence and cultural backlash.
The decline of manufacturing and the rise of service-sector jobs have created a two-tiered labor market: high-paying cognitive jobs and lower-paying manual jobs. Men, traditionally employed in manufacturing, have faced disproportionate job losses and economic insecurity.
Economic deprivation and inequality are linked to lower social trust and the adoption of zero-sum mindsets. This, in turn, correlates with support for far-right and anti-democratic ideologies.
The shift towards the service sector has disproportionately impacted men due to their historical concentration in manufacturing, while women have benefited from the rise of the cognitive sector and more flexible work arrangements. This gap widened further due to the decline of unions and rising automation. A decline in manufacturing also negatively impacted men's marriage and family prospects, creating additional pressures.
The article argues the “crisis of masculinity” presents an opportunity to redefine men's roles beyond traditional provider and producer identities. The authors propose encouraging open dialogue, cross-gender friendships, and the creation of a more equitable and prosperous economy to foster social trust and combat anti-democratic sentiments.