In this live episode recorded in Berlin, Marcel Dirsus sits down with researcher and author Julia Ebner to explore the psychology of extremism, conspiracy theories, and online radicalization. From QAnon and neo-Nazi networks to AI-driven propaganda and the gamification of hate, they unpack how fringe movements recruit followers, spread across borders, and increasingly shape mainstream politics.

Julia shares insights from years spent researching extremist communities — including undercover investigations into online hate groups and radical movements — and explains why ordinary people can become drawn into dangerous ideologies.

The conversation also explores:

• why conspiracy theories are emotionally powerful,
• how social media amplifies extremism,
• what separates trolls from violent extremists,
• and why modern radicalization is becoming harder to contain.

Julia Ebner is the author of Going Dark, Going Mainstream, and The Rage. She is a researcher at the University of Oxford and works on extremism, terrorism, conspiracy myths, and the impact of emerging technologies on democracy.

The Next Best with Marcel Dirsus offers deep dives into geopolitics and international relations. We provide serious political commentary on foreign policy challenges, modern warfare, and global security.