Freddie deBoer, a writer and academic known for his critical insights on education and social justice, delves into the evolution of 'woke' ideas and their co-optation by elite institutions. He discusses the dynamics of social media in shaping public discourse, as well as the complexities surrounding identity politics in education. DeBoer argues for genuinely anti-racist movements with material goals, critiques the superficiality in political engagement, and reflects on the fragmented state of radical racial politics today.
Racism should be approached as a systemic issue linked to material conditions rather than solely as a behavioral concern among individuals.
The social justice movement has been co-opted by elite frameworks, which undermines its original radical objectives intended to support marginalized communities.
The concept of 'woke' has evolved into more nuanced discussions, indicating a continuation of its ideological roots in present societal interactions.
Deep dives
Redefining Racism
Racism should be understood as a systemic issue rooted in material conditions rather than mere behavioral or cognitive problems among individuals. The argument position is that prevalent narratives, such as those presented by authors like Robin DiAngelo, simplify racism to a matter of politeness, which detracts from addressing deeper structural inequalities. A focus on the living conditions of marginalized groups reveals that meaningful solutions to racial injustice require economic and social interventions, not merely changes in attitudes. Thus, the dialogue around racism must shift from emphasizing personal niceness to confronting the underlying socio-economic disparities.
The Elite Influence on Social Justice
The social justice movement, while initially grounded in grassroots activism, has been significantly influenced and co-opted by elite frameworks and institutions. This elite capture results in a diluted version of the radical objectives that often served the interests and narratives of those in power rather than the marginalized groups the movement aimed to support. The example of Black Lives Matter illustrates this point, where institutional responses prioritize the establishment of diversity and inclusion initiatives over genuine systemic change. As a result, the movement's original radical goals can become sidelined in favor of maintaining elite structures.
The Mutation of Woke Ideals
As societal discussions evolve, the concept of 'woke' is seen to mutate rather than cease entirely, suggesting that the ideas may still persist albeit in different forms. Presently, there is a belief that the immediate pressure associated with woke culture may have receded, allowing for a more nuanced conversation about topics like race and authority. Notably, incidents in media that would have ignited outrage a few years ago receive minimal attention today, indicating a shift in cultural dynamics. However, the underlying ideological assumptions rooted in identity politics continue to permeate many social interactions, shaping responses in educational settings, for instance.
Racial Politics and Policy Recommendations
Effective racial politics need to transcend mere identity-based discourse and prioritize material conditions affecting marginalized groups. Proposals such as implementing race-neutral policies that inherently benefit historically disadvantaged communities, like universal child tax credits, align with creating tangible improvements in economic status. The ongoing debates emphasize a need for reevaluating how discussions around policing, economic inequality, and education are framed, pushing beyond surface-level fractions to focus on the broader implications for racial equity. Importantly, policymakers should emphasize solutions that address the material needs of communities rather than just symbolic gestures.
The Potential for Resurgence in Social Movements
If figures like Donald Trump were to regain political power, it may catalyze a resurgence in social justice agitation reminiscent of earlier resistance movements. Public sentiment is already showing signs of fatigue with polarized politics, and engagement in activist circles may reflect a response to the perceived threat posed by such leadership. However, the previously prevailing fervor for these movements may not replicate entirely, as the fatigue surrounding contentious political figures has left many jaded. This indicates a potential transformation in how political engagement occurs, with less reliance on celebrity figures and perhaps a more grounded grassroots approach.
Yascha Mounk and Freddie deBoer discuss whether the sweeping set of progressive ideas that came into force in 2020 has really begun to recede.
Freddie deBoer is a writer, academic, and critic. He writes the Freddie deBoer Substack, and is the author of books including the Cult of Smart: How Our Broken Education System Perpetuates Social Injustice and, most recently, How Elites Ate the Social Justice Movement.
In this week’s conversation, Yascha Mounk and Freddie deBoer discuss whether "woke" ideas have, rather than receding, become institutionalized; how the movement for black lives was co-opted for elite liberal ends; and why a genuinely anti-racist, anti-poverty movement needs material objectives.
