Guests Ainslie Johnstone and Sacha Nauta from The Economist, along with Professor Musa al-Gharbi of Stony Brook University, analyze the waning influence of wokeness in America. They discuss how perceptions of wokeness have shifted since its peak around 2021-22, driven by changes in public opinion and demographic trends. The conversation covers the backlash against wokeness, the rise of anti-woke movements, and the historical interplay between social movements and economic conditions. The panel emphasizes the importance of free speech amid these cultural shifts.
The term 'woke' has evolved into a divisive and politicized concept in America, reflecting broader societal tensions and ideological divides.
Public sentiment on wokeness has declined since its peak in 2021-2022, indicating shifting attitudes towards social justice issues among Americans.
Deep dives
The Origin of 'Woke' in American Politics
Carmen Quiroga's experience in naming her breakfast cafe exemplifies the contentious nature of the term 'woke' in America. Initially perceived as a benign reference to awakening in the morning, the term ignited backlash from local conservatives, showcasing how deeply politicized the word has become. This encounter highlights a broader trend where 'wokeness' has morphed into a polarizing concept within American society, particularly among right-leaning groups who view it as representative of extreme leftism. Despite the outrage, Quiroga benefited from local support, reflecting a community divided but ultimately curious about the implications of such terminology.
The Decline of Wokeness and Public Sentiment
Recent analyses show that 'wokeness' peaked around 2021-2022, followed by a notable decline in public sentiment regarding related issues. Surveys conducted by various organizations reveal a decrease in the proportion of Americans aligning with extreme progressive views on social justice topics, including race and gender. For instance, the perception of white privilege and support for positive discrimination have seen diminishing agreement over time. This change in public sentiment suggests a pivotal shift in how Americans perceive the cultural discourse surrounding wokeness and its associated ideologies.
The Impact of Media and Academia on Woke Discourse
Analysis of media publications and academic institutions reveals significant trends in the use of wokeness-related terminology. Reports indicate that references to concepts like 'white privilege' and 'microaggressions' surged in the media during 2015-2020, only to decrease sharply in subsequent years. In academia, wokeness language appears to have peaked later than in media, but similar declines are now occurring in the frequency of its usage. This pattern illustrates how wokeness as a cultural phenomenon is not only being re-evaluated in public dialogue but is also losing traction within scholarly discourse.
Future Perspectives on Wokeness in Society
The trajectory of wokeness in America appears to hinge on several external factors, including political developments and generational shifts. With the approaching presidential election, there is speculation about the potential resurgence of wokeness, especially if figures like Donald Trump regain political power, which could re-ignite polarizing debates. Moreover, as younger generations advance into leadership roles, their currently progressive views may moderate over time, reflecting a shift in societal attitudes. The eventual evolution of the wokeness movement will likely shape American politics and social dynamics for years to come.
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 Economistof 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.