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Best of: Is Wokeness Dead?
Mar 4, 2025
Michelle Goldberg, a New York Times columnist known for her sharp analysis of political and social dynamics, joins host Jerusalem Demsas for a thought-provoking discussion. They dive into the evolution of 'wokeness,' examining its roots in social justice movements and shifts in public perception. The conversation highlights the impact of social media on contemporary activism, explores generational divides in feminist thought, and reflects on the political ramifications of moving away from 'wokeness'. It's a critical look at what might be lost amid changing narratives.
45:35
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Quick takeaways
- The rise of anti-wokeness showcases a significant shift in political discourse, yet its impact on voter decision-making appears limited and secondary to economic concerns.
- Social media's influence has transformed political discussions, often prioritizing performative outrage over actionable dialogue, thus alienating broader audiences from meaningful change.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Wokeness and Its Backlash
The term 'wokeness' represents a style of social justice politics that focuses on altering discourse to address systemic issues. This notion has roots in the political correctness debates of the 1990s, which emerged alongside increasing awareness of racial and gender inequalities. While some argue that the concept has been co-opted by critics to serve as an insult, others see it as a legitimate evolution of political discourse aimed at promoting social change. This evolution has also led to intense backlash from those who feel alienated by what they perceive as excessive political correctness.
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