Widening Gender Gap: Liberal Women, Conservative Men

PERSPECTIVE

By Jayden Z. Ford
Spectrum Editor-in-Chief

A new worldwide phenomenon is emerging: a societal and political gender gap. Women across the globe are increasingly embracing progressive values, while men tend to be more conservative. Various studies have been conducted to understand this trend, and the evolving landscape of political issues. Despite expectations that the youth would lean towards progressivism over the past two decades, this movement seems to have predominantly influenced one gender.

Since 2000, the number of progressive women has surged by nearly 15%, with this trend continuing across various age groups. In contrast, men have witnessed a conservative shift since 2014, with a nearly 6% increase in conservative views. Influential movements such as #MeToo, the presidency of Donald Trump, and debates around reproductive rights and abortion have resonated more strongly with women, leading them to identify more with progressive ideals. Conversely, many men exhibit political apathy, showing less engagement with major political issues. Men also tend to have fewer female friends or acquaintances in the LGBTQ+ community compared to women. These factors contribute to the growing divide between genders.

The disparity in mindset extends beyond mere differences in opinion; it affects interpersonal interactions as well. Surveys indicate that around 71% of Democrats would not consider dating someone with conservative beliefs, and 30% would be unwilling to work under a conservative boss. Many Democrats perceive the conservative mindset as fundamentally incompatible, viewing the differences as not just about policies but also about human rights.

An anonymous conservative stated, “The left isn’t appealing to men and is largely ignoring their issues, terming them as oppressors.” 

Consequently, many men have shifted towards right-leaning ideologies, feeling alienated by the left and finding comfort in conservative views. Social media platforms have played a significant role in this shift, providing young men with a sense of identity and belonging amidst an increasingly progressive societal landscape. While this change in mindset hasn’t yet significantly impacted voting patterns and election results, its long-term effects on politics remain to be seen.