ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the evolution of the online “manosphere,” a loose collection of websites, forums, and blogs dealing with men’s issues, usually from an anti-feminist perspective. The chapter argues that the manosphere’s failure to become a meaningful force in American politics and culture can be partly attributed to its inability to make compelling arguments that could appeal to a wide swath of Americans, devolving instead into cruel misogyny and misanthropy. In this regard, this chapter is different from others in this volume. It suggests that it can be quite difficult for illiberal movements to maintain a liberal rhetorical style.
