Apollo Online: Apollonian Consciousness in Far-Right Internet Subcultures

AbstractThe internet has afforded modern culture unprecedented forms of communication, but it has also led to pockets of isolation that reinforce one’s most unconscious impulses. One example of this shadow side of the internet is the proliferation of far-right internet subcultures, which value hyper-rationality while devaluing anything that is seemingly irrational, or, for them, uncomfortably fluid. Rather than fight fire with fire by distantly judging these subcultures, this article explores their potential mythical, archetypal roots. Jungian and archetypal psychology assert that the Greek gods are alive and well as powers and principles in the Western psyche, implying that even internet subcultures unwittingly enact these ancient motifs. This article shows how certain facets of Apollonian consciousness might be pulling the strings of this high-strung demographic. These facets include Apollo’s jealousy, his determination to win at all costs, and his tumultuous love life. Emphasis is paid to how these aspects of Apollo appear broadly in online political discourse and specifically in the subculture of the incel, or “involuntary celibate.” My intention is to show how this dark face of Apollo, the god of music, can also act as a pied piper for a demographic of increasingly disenchanted young men. I conclude with a brief discussion about what mythic figure might be most effective in puncturing this psychological inflation. Although Dionysus, as an archetypal pattern, is Apollo’s complementary opposite, I propose it is Hermes, the god of communication, who must now enter the chat. Additional informationNotes on contributorsElliott MorganElliott Morgan is a comedian and third-year graduate student at Pacifica Graduate Institute studying depth psychology with a specialization in Jungian psychology and archetypal studies. He earned his bachelor’s degree in zoology from the University of Florida and currently lives in Los Angeles, California. He works as a standup comedian, internet host, and podcaster. He co-hosts The Fundamentalists podcast with Dr. Peter Rollins and has appeared as a guest on the podcast This Jungian Life.