This chapter examines the evolution of the woke movement over the past decade, focusing on its perceived shortcomings and the emergence of a counter-movement. It discusses the long-term implications of 'wokeness,' highlighting both positive developments in social awareness and negative impacts on unity. The chapter emphasizes the importance of examining trends through data and the political ramifications as Generation Z's beliefs continue to shape the conversation around social justice.
Over the past decade a form of wokeness arose on the illiberal left, characterised by extreme pessimism about America and its capacity to make progress. Analysis by The Economist of how influential these ideas are today finds that wokeness peaked in 2021-22 and has since receded. Why is America becoming less “woke”?
John Prideaux hosts with Charlotte Howard and Idrees Kahloon. They’re joined by The Economist’s Ainslie Johnstone and Sacha Nauta, and Professor Musa al-Gharbi of Stony Brook University.
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