ChatGPT Reveals Shocking Parallels Between ‘Gender Critical’ Ideology and Fascism
In a recent conversation with ChatGPT, it became clear that transphobic ‘gender critical’ ideology bears striking similarities to fascist beliefs, particularly in its emphasis on traditional gender roles and exclusionary tactics.
This revelation is a cause for concern, as the normalisation of ‘gender critical’ ideology threatens to roll back hard-won progress in the fight for trans equality and human rights.
But there is hope: by recognising and calling out the harmful rhetoric and tactics of this ideology, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all. In my conversation with ChatGPT, the AI model explores the parallels between ‘gender critical’ ideology and fascism, and examines how we can combat this dangerous trend.
Inspired by the thread by @No7Sammy on Twitter, who asked ChatGPT to describe the process of being radicalised into fascist beliefs, I noticed a clear correlation with the descent into obsessive ‘gender critical’ transphobia. So I decided to investigate.
Below is the conversation I had with ChatGPT, consisting of a number of sequential prompts. I attempted to make the questions as open as possible to draw from the rich source of digital information available and allow the AI to draw its own conclusions. While the answers and recommendations are not entirely unsurprising, what is noticeable is how our Government and media institutions are currently doing the exact opposite to the recommended actions for minimising ‘gender critical’ transphobia.
While many articles covering this topic previously have detailed links between transphobia and fascism and the far right, I am interested in what we can practically do to draw people back from this insidious radicalisation, or at the very least to stop this obsessive transphobia from progressing. Most importantly, I prompted ChatGPT to provide solutions in protecting trans people at the heart of this current attack on their rights and safety. The actions suggested are not exhaustive, but at least give hope that there is something that trans people and allies can practically do, instead of watching the UK descend into a transphobic, fascist authoritarian hell-hole!
Here’s my conversation in full…
Explain how someone spirals into fascist beliefs?
Chat GPT: The process of how someone spirals into fascist beliefs is complex and multifaceted, and can be influenced by a range of factors including social, political, economic, psychological, and historical circumstances. However, there are some common patterns and mechanisms that have been observed in individuals who become attracted to fascist ideology.
One possible pathway is through a sense of alienation and dissatisfaction with one’s personal or societal situation, combined with a search for meaning, identity, and belonging. This can lead some individuals to be drawn to extremist groups that promise a sense of purpose and a feeling of empowerment. Fascist groups often appeal to these individuals by offering a simplistic and seductive worldview that blames certain groups for their problems and presents a vision of a powerful and homogeneous community that can restore order and greatness.
Fascist groups often appeal to these individuals by offering a simplistic and seductive worldview that blames certain groups for their problems and presents a vision of a powerful and homogeneous community that can restore order and greatness.
Another factor that can contribute to the adoption of fascist beliefs is a sense of fear and anxiety about the future. This can be exacerbated by real or perceived threats to one’s security, such as economic instability, social unrest, cultural change, or terrorism. Fascist movements often exploit these fears by offering a strong and authoritarian leader who promises to protect and defend the community from perceived enemies, both internal and external.
In addition, fascist ideology often relies on a narrative of victimhood and a sense of historical grievance, which can appeal to individuals who feel disempowered or marginalised in some way. This narrative portrays the group as having been unfairly oppressed or humiliated by other groups or forces, and seeks to restore a sense of pride and dignity by reclaiming power and status.
Finally, the process of radicalization into fascist beliefs can be facilitated by socialisation and exposure to extremist propaganda, whether through online forums, social media, or face-to-face interactions with other members of the group. This can create a sense of belonging and solidarity, as well as reinforce the group’s ideology and worldview.
It is important to note that not all individuals who share some of these characteristics will become fascists, and that there are multiple paths that can lead to radicalization into extremist beliefs. Additionally, there are many factors that can mitigate or prevent the adoption of fascist ideology, such as access to education, exposure to diverse perspectives, social support, and opportunities for personal growth and fulfilment.
Apply this process to the spiralling of gender critical women into obsessive transphobia
ChatGPT: The process of how some gender critical women spiral into obsessive transphobia can be similar to the process of radicalization into fascist beliefs, as it also involves a sense of alienation and dissatisfaction with the status quo, a search for identity and belonging, and a perception of a threat to one’s security and values. However, it also has some unique features related to the specific context of gender identity and expression.
Gender critical women, also known as TERFs (Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminists), reject the idea that trans women are women, and oppose the expansion of trans rights and recognition. They view transgenderism as a threat to women’s rights and safety, and argue that trans women reinforce harmful gender stereotypes and erase the experiences of biological women.
One factor that can contribute to the adoption of transphobic beliefs is a sense of betrayal and disillusionment with mainstream feminism, which some gender critical women perceive as having abandoned its radical roots and embraced a liberal agenda that prioritises gender identity over biological sex. This can lead to a sense of isolation and marginalisation within feminist circles, and a search for alternative communities that share their views.
Another factor is a sense of moral panic and fear about the implications of transgenderism, which some gender critical women see as a threat to the fabric of society and to the safety of women and children. This fear is often fueled by media coverage of cases of violence or abuse perpetrated by individuals who identify as trans, and by the portrayal of trans activism as a totalitarian movement that seeks to silence dissent and impose a new orthodoxy.
This fear is often fueled by media coverage of cases of violence or abuse perpetrated by individuals who identify as trans, and by the portrayal of trans activism as a totalitarian movement that seeks to silence dissent and impose a new orthodoxy.
Additionally, the process of radicalization into transphobic beliefs can be facilitated by exposure to extremist propaganda, such as online forums, social media groups, and blogs that promote a gender-critical worldview and demonise trans individuals and activists. These spaces often offer a sense of belonging and validation to women who feel marginalised or silenced by mainstream society, and provide a platform for sharing stories of alleged harms and injustices caused by trans rights.
Finally, the spiral into transphobia can also be reinforced by a sense of righteousness and victimhood, as some gender critical women see themselves as defending a noble cause against a powerful and oppressive movement. This can lead to a sense of moral superiority and a willingness to use extreme tactics, such as harassment, doxxing, and censorship, to silence opponents and defend their views.
This can lead to a sense of moral superiority and a willingness to use extreme tactics, such as harassment, doxxing, and censorship, to silence opponents and defend their views.
It is important to note that not all gender critical women become transphobic, and that there are many feminist movements and communities that embrace trans-inclusive and intersectional perspectives. Moreover, transphobia can have serious consequences for the mental health and well-being of trans individuals, who already face high levels of discrimination and violence. Therefore, it is important to engage in respectful and constructive dialogue, based on evidence and empathy, to promote understanding and solidarity across different perspectives.
Give examples of how the U.K. media has followed the fascist model in their talking about trans people. Cite examples and provide links as reference.
ChatGPT: There have been instances where some media outlets in the UK have followed the fascist model in their coverage of trans people, by promoting fear, demonization, and dehumanisation of transgender individuals and communities. Here are some examples, along with references:
The Times:
In 2017, The Times newspaper published an article with the headline “Children sacrificed to appease trans lobby” which was criticised by activists and experts for its inaccurate and inflammatory tone. The article was accused of perpetuating harmful stereotypes about transgender people and reinforcing a narrative of trans individuals as aggressive and a threat to children.
The Sun:
The Sun newspaper has been accused of promoting a transphobic agenda, by publishing articles and opinion pieces that misrepresent and ridicule transgender people. For instance, in 2018, the newspaper published an article which claimed that child murderer Ian Huntley was trans, which was found to be untrue and was criticised for its sensationalist and misleading content.
The Daily Mail:
The Daily Mail newspaper has a long history of promoting anti-trans views, by publishing articles and columns that promote a ‘gender-critical’ agenda and reinforce harmful stereotypes about transgender individuals and has been accused of stoking fear and hatred towards transgender people and their allies.
These examples illustrate how some media outlets in the UK have followed the fascist model in their coverage of trans issues, by promoting a climate of fear, hatred, and intolerance towards transgender individuals and communities.
Media outlets in the UK have followed the fascist model in their coverage of trans issues, by promoting a climate of fear, hatred, and intolerance towards transgender individuals and communities.
Such reporting can have serious consequences for the mental health and well-being of trans people, who already face high levels of discrimination and violence. Therefore, it is important to promote accurate and respectful reporting on trans issues, based on evidence and empathy.
Which models/ programmes/ techniques have been successful in deradicalising fascists? Cite examples with links to references.
ChatGPT: There are several models, programs, and techniques that have been successful in deradicalizing individuals who hold fascist beliefs. Here are some examples, along with references:
Exit programs:
Exit programs are designed to provide individuals who are involved in extremist groups with a pathway to disengage from violent or extremist behaviour. These programs offer counselling, mentoring, and social support, as well as opportunities for education, training, and employment. A study by the German Institute on Radicalization and De-Radicalization Studies found that exit programs have been effective in reducing the risk of violent extremism among participants.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT):
CBT is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviours. It has been used successfully in the treatment of a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and addiction. A study by Loo Seng Neo found that CBT can be effective in reducing the risk of extremist violence among individuals with radical beliefs.
Narrative therapy:
Narrative therapy is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals to reframe their life story in a more positive and empowering way. It has been used successfully in the treatment of trauma, depression, and anxiety, as well as in the context of deradicalization. Research has found that narrative therapy can be effective in helping individuals to disengage from extremist ideologies and to develop a more positive sense of self.
These examples illustrate how different approaches can be effective in deradicalizing individuals who hold fascist beliefs, by addressing the underlying psychological, social, and ideological factors that contribute to extremist behaviour. It is important to note that deradicalization is a complex and long-term process, and that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Therefore, a multidisciplinary and individualised approach is often needed, involving a range of stakeholders, including mental health professionals, social workers, educators, and law enforcement agencies.
Following those models, how could this be applied to deradicalising ‘gender critical’ transphobes?
ChatGPT: Applying the models and techniques of deradicalization to “gender critical” transphobes would require a careful and nuanced approach that takes into account the specific psychological, social, and ideological factors that contribute to their transphobic beliefs. Here are some ways in which these models could be applied:
Exit programs:
Similar to exit programs for radical extremists, exit programs for “gender critical” transphobes could offer counselling, mentoring, and social support, as well as opportunities for education, training, and employment. These programs could help transphobes to disengage from their transphobic beliefs and behaviours, and to develop a more positive and empathetic understanding of transgender people.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT):
CBT could be used to help transphobes to identify and challenge their negative thought patterns and behaviours, and to develop more positive and empathetic attitudes towards transgender people. CBT could also help transphobes to cope with any underlying mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, that may be contributing to their transphobia.
Narrative therapy:
Narrative therapy could be used to help transphobes to reframe their life story in a more positive and empowering way, and to develop a more positive sense of self that is not based on their transphobic beliefs. Narrative therapy could also help transphobes to understand how their transphobic beliefs may be rooted in broader societal and cultural issues, such as gender norms and stereotypes, and to develop a more critical and reflective understanding of these issues.
Education and awareness-raising:
Education and awareness-raising campaigns could be used to challenge the misinformation and stereotypes that underlie transphobic beliefs, and to promote a more accurate and empathetic understanding of transgender people. These campaigns could be targeted at different audiences, including schools, workplaces, and community groups, and could use a range of media, such as social media, videos, and podcasts, to reach a wider audience.
It is important to note that deradicalizing “gender critical” transphobes is a complex and long-term process that requires a multidisciplinary and individualised approach. Therefore, it would require the involvement of mental health professionals, social workers, educators, and community leaders, as well as a commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive society that values diversity and respect for all.
What can be done if ‘gender critical’ transphobes don’t want to engage with deradicalisation suggestions or don’t think they have a problem?
ChatGPT: If “gender critical” transphobes don’t want to engage with deradicalisation suggestions or don’t think they have a problem, it can be difficult to change their attitudes and behaviours. However, here are some suggestions for how to approach this issue:
Focus on harm reduction:
Even if “gender critical” transphobes are not willing to change their beliefs, it is still possible to work towards harm reduction by advocating for policies and practices that protect transgender people’s rights and safety. This could include supporting trans-inclusive policies in schools and workplaces, advocating for hate crime laws that protect transgender people, and promoting anti-bullying and anti-discrimination initiatives.
Engage with the broader public:
While “gender critical” transphobes may be resistant to change, the broader public may be more open to education and awareness-raising efforts. Engaging with the public through social media, community events, and other outreach efforts can help to shift public opinion towards a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of transgender people.
Use empathy and personal stories:
Some “gender critical” transphobes may be more willing to listen and engage if they hear personal stories and experiences from transgender people and their allies. Sharing personal stories of the impact of transphobia and discrimination can help to humanise transgender issues and build empathy and understanding.
Seek support from allies:
Transgender individuals and their allies can seek support from other groups and stakeholders, such as mental health professionals, social workers, and religious leaders, to help engage “gender critical” transphobes and promote positive change.
It is important to note that changing deeply held beliefs and attitudes can be a long and difficult process. However, even small steps towards harm reduction and education can have a positive impact on transgender individuals and their communities. It is also important to prioritise self-care and well-being for transgender individuals and their allies, as engaging with transphobic individuals can be emotionally challenging.
Is there anything the government could do to help in this process? Are there any policies or national initiatives that have worked in addressing fascism that could work in reducing ‘gender critical’ transphobia?
ChatGPT: Yes, the government can play an important role in addressing “gender critical” transphobia through policies and national initiatives. Here are some examples:
Education policies:
The government could introduce policies to promote inclusive and diverse education, such as curriculum reforms that teach about gender identity and gender expression. This could help to reduce ignorance and prejudice towards transgender people among young people, and could promote a more tolerant and accepting society.
Anti-discrimination laws:
The government could strengthen anti-discrimination laws to protect transgender people from discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, and healthcare. This could help to create a more inclusive and equal society, and could send a clear message that transphobia is not acceptable.
Funding for support services:
The government could provide funding for support services for transgender people, such as mental health services and advocacy organizations. This could help to improve the well-being and quality of life of transgender people, and could also provide a platform for transgender voices to be heard and understood.
Community engagement initiatives:
The government could launch community engagement initiatives that bring together transgender people and their allies with “gender critical” transphobes. This could provide an opportunity for constructive dialogue and understanding, and could help to bridge the divide between these groups.
These initiatives draw from successful policies and national initiatives that have been used to address fascism and extremism in the past, such as community policing and education programs. It is important to note that addressing “gender critical” transphobia is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a coordinated effort across different sectors of society, including government, civil society, and the private sector.
***Note: it is worth noting that the UK Government is currently doing the exact opposite of the actions recommended by ChatGPT***
Are there any initiatives or policies that have worked in ensuring the media doesn’t promote fascism that could be used in reducing ‘gender critical’ transphobia?
ChatGPT: Yes, there are initiatives and policies that have been successful in ensuring the media doesn’t promote fascism, which could be used to reduce “gender critical” transphobia. Here are some examples:
Codes of ethics and conduct:
The media industry could develop codes of ethics and conduct that promote fair and accurate coverage of transgender issues, and that discourage the promotion of transphobic views. These codes could be enforced by regulatory bodies, such as the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO) in the UK, and could include sanctions for media outlets that breach the codes.
***Comment: Good luck with getting IPSO to do anything***
Media monitoring and reporting:
Civil society organisations could monitor and report on transphobic media coverage, and could highlight examples of good practice and areas for improvement. This could help to hold media outlets accountable for their coverage, and could provide a basis for constructive dialogue and engagement between media outlets and transgender groups.
Media literacy programs:
The government could provide funding for media literacy programs that teach people how to critically evaluate media coverage of transgender issues, and that promote a more accurate and empathetic understanding of transgender people. These programs could be targeted at different audiences, including schools, workplaces, and community groups, and could help to reduce the influence of transphobic media on public opinion.
Diversity in media ownership and staffing:
The media industry could promote diversity in media ownership and staffing, including greater representation of transgender people and their allies. This could help to ensure a more diverse range of perspectives and voices in media coverage of transgender issues, and could promote a more inclusive and respectful society.
These initiatives draw from successful policies and national initiatives that have been used to address media bias and hate speech in the past, such as hate speech laws and media diversity regulations. It is important to note that reducing “gender critical” transphobia in the media is a complex and ongoing process that requires a sustained effort across different sectors of society, including government, civil society, and the media industry itself.
What can be done if both the government and media refuse to recognise that they are actually promoting ‘gender critical’ transphobia? Are there any practical actions that can be taken?
ChatGPT: If both the government and media refuse to recognise that they are promoting “gender critical” transphobia, there are still practical actions that can be taken. Here are some examples:
Grassroots activism:
Individuals and groups can engage in grassroots activism to raise awareness about “gender critical” transphobia and its harmful impact on transgender people. This could include organising protests, boycotts, and social media campaigns to pressure the government and media to address the issue.
Alternative media outlets:
Transgender advocates and their allies can create alternative media outlets, such as blogs, podcasts, and social media channels, to provide accurate and inclusive coverage of transgender issues. This could help to counteract transphobic media coverage and provide a platform for transgender voices to be heard.
Legal action:
Transgender individuals and their allies can pursue legal action against media outlets or individuals who promote transphobic views or behaviour. This could include filing complaints with regulatory bodies, such as IPSO in the UK, or pursuing defamation or hate speech charges in court.
Education and advocacy:
Transgender advocates and their allies can engage in education and advocacy efforts to promote a more accurate and empathetic understanding of transgender people and their experiences. This could include providing training and resources for media professionals, educators, and policymakers, and engaging in public speaking and media appearances to raise awareness about transgender issues.
It is important to note that these actions may not immediately change the attitudes of the government and media towards “gender critical” transphobia, but they can still have a positive impact by raising awareness and promoting a more inclusive and respectful society.
Additionally, these actions can create a foundation for constructive dialogue and engagement between transgender groups and other stakeholders, which may ultimately lead to more effective policies and initiatives in the future.
What actions could trans people and their allies take if the government and mainstream media are actively hostile towards trans people, and the bodies like IPSO are controlled by the government and ineffective?
ChatGPT: If the government and mainstream media are actively hostile towards trans people and the bodies like IPSO are controlled by the government and ineffective, trans people and their allies can still take actions to protect their rights and advocate for change. Here are some examples:
Direct action and civil disobedience:
Transgender individuals and their allies can engage in direct action and civil disobedience to raise awareness about transphobia and demand change. This could include organizing protests, sit-ins, and other nonviolent actions to disrupt and draw attention to transphobic policies and practices.
International advocacy:
Transgender individuals and their allies can engage in international advocacy efforts to pressure the government to uphold their human rights. This could include working with international human rights organisations, such as the United Nations or Amnesty International, to report on human rights violations and advocate for change.
Community building and support:
Transgender individuals and their allies can build supportive communities and networks to provide mutual support, resources, and advocacy. This could include organising support groups, creating online forums, and engaging in peer-to-peer support.
Legal action:
Transgender individuals and their allies can pursue legal action against the government or other entities that violate their human rights. This could include filing lawsuits or complaints with international human rights bodies, such as the European Court of Human Rights or the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.
It is important to note that these actions can carry risks and require careful planning and coordination. It is also important to prioritise the safety and well-being of transgender individuals and their allies, and to work collaboratively with other groups and stakeholders to maximise impact and achieve lasting change.
Work collaboratively with other groups and stakeholders to maximise impact and achieve lasting change.
While the rise of “gender critical” ideology, which bears similarities to fascist beliefs, poses a threat to the progress made in the fight for transgender equality and human rights, by recognizing and calling out the harmful rhetoric and tactics of this ideology, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all. The conversation with ChatGPT highlights the parallels between “gender critical” ideology and fascism, and offers solutions for combatting this dangerous trend, including educating ourselves and others, promoting trans visibility and representation, and advocating for policies that protect the rights and safety of trans individuals.
It is essential that we take action to protect trans people at the heart of this attack on their rights and safety, and work towards a more accepting and inclusive society for all.
