Why Labour’s anti-misogyny classes are doomed to fail I The Daily T

The Labor Government’s Intervention on Misogyny in Schools & Related Issues

Key Concepts:

• Misogyny: Dislike of, contempt for, or ingrained prejudice against women.
• Toxic Masculinity: Socially constructed attitudes and behaviors associated with traditional masculinity that are harmful to men and those around them.
• Incel: Involuntary celibate – a member of an online community of men who define themselves as unable to find a romantic or sexual partner despite desiring one.
• Manosphere: A network of websites, blogs, and forums promoting misogynistic and anti-feminist ideologies.
• Coercive Control: A pattern of controlling, intimidating, or threatening behavior in a relationship.
• PHSE: Personal, Social, Health and Economic education – a school curriculum subject.
• Gen Z/Alpha: Generational cohorts – Gen Z (born 1997-2012) and Gen Alpha (born 2010-2025).

I. Introduction: Government Intervention & Initial Concerns

The discussion centers on the Labor government’s new initiative to address misogyny in schools, involving specialist training for teachers to deliver lessons on consent, safe image sharing, and challenging misogynistic behavior, particularly in light of the influence of figures like Andrew Tate. The initial framing questions the appropriateness of this intervention, asking whether it’s the role of teachers or parents to police “toxic masculinity” and whether “toxic femininity” should also be addressed. A concern is raised about the potential for children to access harmful content like “strangulation porn” privately.

II. A Tangential Celebrity Pointless Recap & Humorous Exchange

The conversation begins with a lighthearted anecdote about Rachel Johnson and Camila Tominey’s disastrous appearance on the game show Celebrity Pointless. They recount being the first contestants in history to receive two “X”s in the first round, demonstrating a complete lack of knowledge about flags. This segment highlights their shared self-deprecating humor and establishes a conversational rapport. Camila Tominey mentions winning a previous celebrity edition for Parkinson's UK, and a humorous side-discussion about potential future game show appearances (specifically Celebrity Catchphrase and Celebrity Traitors) ensues.

III. Critique of Jess Phillips & the Grooming Gang Inquiry

The discussion pivots to Jess Phillips, a Labour MP, and her recent media appearances. While acknowledging her advocacy for women and girls, the speakers express concern over criticism surrounding her involvement (or lack thereof) in the grooming gang inquiry. Scarlet, a survivor, publicly expressed a lack of faith in Phillips and resigned from the victim’s panel, indicating a loss of confidence in her. The speakers suggest Phillips faces a political challenge in Birmingham Yardley, balancing her feminist stance with the need to appeal to a significant Muslim voter base.

IV. The Core Issue: Teaching Boys About Misogyny

The central focus shifts to the government’s plan to teach boys about misogyny in schools, spearheaded by Kia Stmer. The aim is to address the rise of misogyny and reduce sexual violence. Teachers will receive training to address consent, image sharing, and challenge misogynistic behavior, with specific guidance on identifying boys susceptible to figures like Andrew Tate. However, the speakers question the timing of this initiative, suggesting it’s “too little, too late” as Tate’s influence peaked several years ago. Camila Tominey recounts a school speech where Andrew Tate was referenced, prompting a debate among students.

V. Parental Responsibility & the Vacuum of Guidance

A key argument revolves around the role of parents in addressing these issues. Rachel Johnson emphasizes the importance of open conversations with children, particularly sons, but acknowledges that many parents avoid these discussions due to discomfort or fear of damaging their relationships. This creates a “vacuum” that the internet, and figures like Andrew Tate, have filled. The speakers agree that schools are already overburdened with the national curriculum and may not be equipped to adequately address this complex issue. The analogy of “putting the genie back in the bottle” is used to illustrate the difficulty of reversing the influence of online content.

VI. The Impact of Online Pornography & Changing Sexual Dynamics

The conversation delves into the impact of online pornography, particularly its accessibility and potential to distort perceptions of sex and relationships. Baroness Burton’s attempt to introduce an amendment regarding choking and strangulation is mentioned, highlighting the increasing prevalence of these acts. The speakers note a shift in sexual dynamics, with younger generations reporting lower rates of sexual activity while simultaneously being exposed to increasingly explicit content. The discussion touches on the phenomenon of “incels” and the potential for online radicalization.

VII. Toxic Femininity & the Bonnie Blue/Lily Phillips Phenomenon

The discussion expands to consider “toxic femininity,” referencing figures like Bonnie Blue and Lily Phillips, who are known for their explicit content and willingness to engage in extreme sexual acts. Rachel Johnson argues that these figures represent a modern-day “freak show,” pushing the boundaries of decency for attention and profit. Camila Tominey emphasizes the financial incentives driving this content, comparing OnlyFans to a “Substack for sex.” A strong condemnation is voiced regarding the normalization of potentially harmful practices and the danger they pose to other women.

VIII. Kemena Bennock’s Response & Cultural Importation of Misogyny

The speakers analyze a response from Kemena Bennock, the opposition leader, who criticized the idea of “misogyny classes” and argued that the problem lies with “non-British boys” and cultures that don’t respect women. Bennock’s statement is seen as controversial but raises a valid point about the potential for cultural factors to contribute to misogynistic behavior. The discussion references recent research highlighting the overrepresentation of Afghan males in sex crime statistics and a British medical journal paper questioning the acceptability of female genital mutilation.

IX. Statistics & Research Findings

• 40% of teenagers in relationships are victims of relationship abuse.
• 40% of young men hold a positive view of Andrew Tate.
• Farage claims Afghan males are 22 times more likely to be convicted of sexual offenses (ITN fact-checked this as 3 times).
• The proportion of sexually active 18-24 year olds has declined from 67% (2019) to 43% (November of the current year).
• Around half of 50-64 year olds report being sexually active.

X. Concluding Thoughts: A Complex Problem with No Easy Solutions

The conversation concludes with a recognition of the complexity of the issue and the need for a multi-faceted approach. While acknowledging the potential benefits of introducing lessons on misogyny in schools, the speakers emphasize the importance of parental responsibility and addressing the underlying cultural factors that contribute to misogynistic behavior. The discussion highlights the enduring nature of both male violence and antisemitism, suggesting that these are deeply rooted problems with no easy solutions. Jess Phillips’ strategy is seen as potentially “doomed” but a worthwhile conversation starter.