Intelligence Squared
Whose Word is 'Woke'?
Sep 30, 2023
Philosopher Susan Neiman, author of "Left Is Not Woke," joins cultural critic Thomas Chatterton Williams for a thought-provoking discussion. They explore the dangers of confusing wokeism with leftist principles, arguing it undermines long-held progressive values. The conversation touches on how various interpretations of 'woke' influence political identities today, alongside reflections on the pessimism that has overtaken modern discourse. Foucault's impact on contemporary thought also surfaces, emphasizing the need to navigate these complex cultural landscapes.
32:28
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Quick takeaways
- The woke movement is characterized by tribalism, while the liberal left embraces universalism and values a distinct conception of justice separate from power.
- Intellectuals like Michel Foucault, Martin Heidegger, and Carl Schmitt have influenced the development of woke ideology, with postcolonial theory and realist politics playing a role in shaping the movement.
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