ICS Research Seminars

"How the Manosphere weaponized autism: The importance of neuro-affirming antiviolence interventions"

There has been growing concern that the “Manosphere,” a loose network of male-centric influencers and online communities, is amplifying and inflaming misogyny, technology facilitated sexual violence, and right-wing extremism around the world. One persistent meme that often crops up in some of these online hate spaces is the concept of “weaponized autism,” defined in Urban Dictionary as: "the focused application of nerdiness, computer tech savvy and social awkwardness in the cyber pursuit of justice, payback or even serving the public interest.” Within this framing, “autism” is both glorified and derogatory: as an expression of internalised self-hatred, but also as justification for a victimhood narrative that spurs expressions and acts of hate. An especially unsettling finding from recent studies is that neurodiverse young men, in particular, seem drawn to antisocial online communities because they feel more accepted there than in mainstream society.

While there has been increasing support for initiatives to address online misogyny and other forms of hate, few address this intersection of neurodivergence and extremism. This talk will unpack some of the subcultural history behind “weaponized autism” and explore how a better understanding of neurodivergent identities could influence the design of more inclusive and accessible antiviolence initiatives. 

Visiting masterclass for PhD students.
(registration details to follow) 

"Exploring visualization strategies through shifting contexts"