Nick Cohen talks to author and journalist James Bloodworth about the evolving nature of politics and media in today's digital age. James explores how traditional media institutions are losing influence while online platforms and personalities mainly of the radical and far right have become more prominent, particularly noting how successful figures leverage algorithms and controversial content to gain attention.
The strange death of the mainstream media
James Bloodworth discusses the changing media landscape, noting that traditional media outlets like newspapers and TV networks are losing relevance, especially among younger audiences. He observes that podcasts and social media have become more influential, with figures like Joe Rogan and Andrew Tate gaining significant followings. Bloodworth explains that successful online personalities often understand algorithms and use outrageous statements to gain attention, both from supporters and critics.
Victimhood is pay-dirt for online Radicalised Right
James Bloodworth says radical right figures are earning online fortunes with simple messaging, saying "You slowly learn that the nuanced articles don't get as many clicks and subscriptions, and people sending you money as the more inflammatory articles." He described figures such as Matthew Goodwin as "very obviously leaning into the white supremo types who give him money on his Substack." He adds, "I don't know how much of this stuff he actually believes, but he's willing to surf that wave because it because it seems to be making him quite a lot of money."
Online far right wingers are guilty of bad faith & hypocrisy
James says right wing charlatans are always banging on about free speech when it came to people jailed for inciting violence against immigrants like the wife of a Tory councillor, Lucy Connolly, while demanding the banning of pro-Palestinian protests. James adds, "I know there are people at those protests who have said anti-semitic things, and that there have been anti-semitic chants. But... there's a complete double standard. I think it's all bad faith, and I think the accusations, particularly against Keir Starmer of two-tiered justice, are completely absurd, considering he was involved in the prosecution of people following the 2011 riots."
Read all about it!
James Bloodworth, @J_Bloodworth, the author of The Lost Boys, A personal journey through the Manosphere published on June 5th by Atlantic Books. James's Sustack is For the Desk Drawer.
Nick Cohen's regular Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond is another must-read.
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