Meghan Murphy critiques the normalization of pornography and its detrimental effects on young men, particularly within the Gen Z demographic. She expresses concern about the rise of the "gooner" culture, where excessive pornography consumption is embraced and celebrated, leading to significant implications for mental health and societal relationships.
The article discusses the emergence of a subculture known as "gooning," which involves a communal and goal-oriented approach to masturbation, often linked to extreme expressions of loneliness and sexuality among young men. It highlights a specific incident involving the death of Nautica Malone, which became emblematic of this movement, illustrating the psychological impacts of modern society and the internet's role in shaping new forms of sexual expression. The author reflects on the implications of this phenomenon for mental health and societal norms.