The Peter McCormack Show cover image

The Peter McCormack Show

#050 - Eric Kaufmann - How Wokeness Hijacked the West

Feb 12, 2025
Eric Kaufmann, a political scientist and author specializing in cultural politics, discusses the profound impact of woke ideology on Western society. He shares insights on the suppression of free speech and the radical transformation of institutions, pinpointing an elite ruling class's role in enforcing ideological conformity. Kaufmann emphasizes how the education system has become a hotbed for indoctrination, reshaping a generation's views on dissent. He also critiques the infiltration of critical race theory and gender ideologies into curricula, revealing their implications for future societal dynamics.
02:01:13

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Eric Kaufmann critiques the rise of woke ideology, highlighting its role in suppressing free speech and enforcing ideological conformity in society.
  • The podcast explores how the evolving identity of the Republican Party reflects a blend of cultural conservatism and economic conservative views among educated elites.

Deep dives

Shift in Republican Party Identity

The Republican Party's identity has evolved, now increasingly representing cultural conservatism over economic conservatism. Traditionally a party associated with low taxes benefiting wealthy individuals, it now attracts those with right-leaning economic views but left-leaning cultural values. This shift means that educated elites, while supporting low taxes, may also advocate for more progressive social policies, such as open borders and a commitment to diversity. This duality creates a complex political landscape where traditional party lines are blurred.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode