Description
Debates around masculinity have become increasingly urgent in recent years, shaped by social media, political discourse and growing concerns around radicalisation. This timely panel brings together experts from research, community work and lived experience to explore how extreme ideas about masculinity are formed, amplified and sustained in today’s society.
From online influencers and peer networks to the power of everyday conversations, the discussion will examine why certain narratives resonate so strongly with some young men and how they can become linked to misogyny, extremist movements and violence.
The panel explores the social and economic pressures that can leave individuals vulnerable to these ideologies, including inequality, isolation, identity and shifting cultural expectations.
Moving beyond sensational headlines, this thought-provoking event offers a nuanced and insightful conversation about one of the most pressing social issues of our time. Join us to explore the forces shaping modern masculinity and consider what pathways forward might look like for future generations.
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About the Authors
Kasim Ali
Kasim Ali was born and raised in Alum Rock, Birmingham. He is the author of the debut novel Good Intentions, has written fiction for BBC Radio 4 and has a column at The Bookseller. His short fiction has been longlisted for the 4th Estate and Guardian 4thWrite Short Story Prize, and Good Intentions was shortlisted for the Mo Siewcharran Prize. Who Will Remain is his second novel. He works as an editor in publishing and now lives in London.
Dr Elizabeth Pearson
Dr Elizabeth Pearson is an Associate Professor in criminology at Royal Holloway, University of London where she specialises in extremism, terrorism and gender. She is the author of Extreme Britain: Gender, Masculinity and Radicalisation published in paperback with Hurst in July 2026. The book is based on interviews with Stephen Yaxley-Lennon aka Tommy Robinson, and the jailed Islamist preacher Anjem Choudary, along with their followers. Elizabeth is a former radio journalist and uses interviews as well as online data to research jihadism and the extreme right, in the UK and worldwide.
About the Chair
Jared Shurin
Jared Shurin is a writer and anthologist, living in London.
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