#1032 - Joshua Citarella - The Dark Subcultures of Online Politics - Modern Wisdom Recap

Podcast: Modern Wisdom

Published: 2025-12-13

Duration: 1 hr 54 min

Summary

Joshua Citarella explores the evolution of online political subcultures, particularly among Gen Z, and how their shifting ideologies reflect broader societal changes. He emphasizes the rise of right-wing populism as a significant trend diverging from traditional political alignments.

What Happened

In this episode, Joshua Citarella discusses his journey from being a traditional artist to becoming a prominent internet culture writer and podcaster. He reflects on the evolution of his audience, noting a transformation from a niche group of intellectuals to a much larger platform with hundreds of thousands of viewers. Citarella shares insights from his early work, including his self-published book 'Politogram the Post-Left,' which examined the political ideologies of teenagers and their rejection of mainstream politics, particularly in the context of their experiences with economic decline and lack of upward mobility.

As the conversation unfolds, Citarella highlights the significant shifts in political landscapes, particularly the rise of right-wing populism across advanced nations. He notes that this trend correlates with the neoliberal economic consensus that has left many working-class individuals feeling disenfranchised. Contrary to expectations of a resurgence in labor movements or social democracy, the political responses have leaned towards populism, often rooted in anti-immigration sentiments and austerity backlash. This shift has been surprising to many on the left, as constituencies that once supported labor are now gravitating towards populist candidates.

Citarella also delves into the mechanics of how online subcultures operate, revealing a fascination with the extreme depths of internet discourse. He describes his research process, which involves tracking the political evolution of young individuals as they navigate various online platforms. This exploration uncovers not just their ideologies but also their engagement with radical movements, showcasing how these digital spaces influence real-world political sentiments and behaviors. The episode ultimately paints a complex picture of how young people today are redefining politics in response to their realities.

Key Insights

Key Questions Answered

What is the significance of Joshua Citarella's book 'Politogram the Post-Left'?

Citarella's book examines the political ideologies of teenagers who have transitioned from leftist movements to more radical viewpoints. It provides an ethnographic look at how these young individuals interact with and shape their political beliefs in response to their socio-economic environments. The work laid the groundwork for understanding the current state of online political discourse.

How has online culture influenced Gen Z's political views?

Citarella highlights that Gen Z is navigating a complex media landscape that informs their political ideologies. Many young people are rejecting traditional political structures in favor of radical politics, influenced by their experiences of economic instability and a lack of upward mobility. These factors contribute to a more engaged and often disenchanted youth who seek to upend the status quo.

What trends does Citarella identify in the rise of right-wing populism?

Citarella points out that right-wing populism has gained traction as a reaction to economic austerity and disillusionment with traditional political parties. This trend spans multiple countries, indicating a broader shift away from labor-aligned voting patterns. The rise of these political movements reflects a response to long-standing economic issues rather than a simple trend cycle.

What role do digital platforms play in shaping political subcultures?

According to Citarella, digital platforms are crucial in the evolution of political subcultures, as they allow for rapid dissemination and transformation of ideas. He details his research tracking young individuals through various platforms, observing how their political ideologies evolve in response to their online interactions and community engagements.

What challenges does Citarella see in predicting future political trends?

Citarella underscores the difficulty of predicting political trends, noting that many traditional models may not apply to the current landscape. He emphasizes the importance of understanding deep-rooted societal issues that persist over time, such as economic decline, as these are often indicative of lasting political shifts rather than temporary trends.