Summary

Support for Germany’s far-right AfD is surging among young men, driven by concerns over immigration, conservative values, and distrust of mainstream politics.

A Pew study found 26% of German men view AfD positively, compared to 11% of women.

Social media, particularly TikTok, has helped spread its message. Some young supporters reject accusations of extremism, while others openly embrace far-right views.

Analysts warn that if mainstream parties ease their opposition to the AfD, it could become Germany’s dominant right-wing party.

    • perestroika@lemm.ee
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      12 hours ago

      Probably not. But individuals on TikTok are definitely denying themselves an opportunity to get smarter.

      To be honest, a large percentage of people are intellectually very lazy (use emotion to decide, dont’ seek understanding but entertainment) and prone to being manipulated.

      A large percentage of people hunger for a sense of belonging and community (which extreme nationalism and a tribal attitude can offer to some degree).

      In the wasteland of corporate-controlled algorithmically steered social media (prime examples: TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube)… people who don’t have an analytical mindset will get themselves shut in a bubble, and subsequently tricked and conned in various ways.

      Brick and mortar social problems like a reduced chance of earning a good living by selling one’s labour - those pile on top of that. :(

    • Maggoty@lemmy.world
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      18 hours ago

      They kind of are though. There’s a reason the word Sophomore exists and is used to describe students multiple times in their education career.

      (Historically it means wise fool or; conceited and overconfident of knowledge but poorly informed and immature)