Conclusions

This book contends that culture wars embody discursive, manipulative, and ideological dimensions. It examines how mutable social actors activate communicative and cultural processes to influence cultural hegemony, focusing on politicisation, affective polarisation, and neoliberal governmentality. We explore the genealogy of gender culture wars in Italy, the media’s role, and the interplay with the far-right’s hegemonic construction. Our analysis underscores convergent gender representations perpetuated by media, political leaders, and social actors to advance agendas and shape public opinion. Understanding culture wars and polarisation as integral to contemporary politics is essential, particularly with the media spotlight on populist far-right factions. By scrutinising ideology, power, and discourse, this book offers insights into societal tensions and the impact of these processes on policy-making. It advocates for an intersectional approach and delineates potential research agendas. Ultimately, it navigates the impacts of entrenched belligerence, apprehending consequences on societal fabric and collective consciousness.