New Discourses Twentieth Century Woke—Left and Right | James Lindsay
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Nov 7, 2025 Exploring the evolution of 'Woke' in the 21st century, the discussion delves into socio-gnosticism as a critical framework shaping identity and politics. It contrasts the material conditions of the 20th century with the emerging social constructs of today. The podcast highlights the dangers of totalitarianism stemming from these ideologies, examining historical parallels with communism and fascism. Additionally, it critiques how modern movements could lead to societal divisions, emphasizing the need for a reactionary political faith on the right.
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Woke As Socio-Gnosticism
- 'Woke' can be described as socio-gnosticism: a social form of Gnostic alienation and secret knowledge.
- Socio-gnostic movements claim a hidden true human nature and therefore the right to rule to restore it.
20th Century Woke Left And Right
- In the 20th century the 'woke left' manifested as communism and the 'woke right' as fascism and national socialism.
- Both are socio-gnostic: one seeks egalitarian collectivism, the other reactionary hierarchical collectivism.
Gnostic Structure Transposed To Society
- Gnosticism asserts hidden true nature and an evil power hiding it; socio-gnosticism transfers that structure to social systems.
- The awakened claim entitlement and mission to liberate others using that secret knowledge.
