In a thought-provoking discussion, John McWhorter, a Columbia linguist and New York Times columnist, critiques modern anti-racism, likening it to a religion that may harm the very people it seeks to support. He explores the coercive tactics of 'woke' ideologies and the misguided implications of critical race theory. McWhorter emphasizes the need for empowerment over victimization, advocating for a more nuanced view of racial identity that acknowledges both systemic issues and individual agency. The conversation challenges prevailing narratives about race and encourages open dialogue.
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The Elect and Their Reign of Terror
John McWhorter expresses concern over the current state of racial discourse, arguing that it's driven by fear and performative displays of wokeness.
He identifies a group he calls "the elect," who believe their views justify extreme actions and silencing dissent.
insights INSIGHT
Anti-Racism and Power Differentials
McWhorter connects modern anti-racism to critical race theory's focus on battling power differentials.
He argues this focus has led to an environment where dissent is seen as evil and justifies extreme reactions.
insights INSIGHT
The Harm of Current Anti-Racism
McWhorter argues that current anti-racism harms Black people by hindering their progress.
He suggests this approach focuses on performative virtue rather than actual societal change.
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In 'The Debt: What America Owes to Blacks', Randall Robinson presents a compelling case for reparations as a means to address the centuries-long injustices faced by African Americans. He argues that by reclaiming their lost past and heritage, African Americans can lay the foundation for their future, while white Americans can begin making amends through monetary restitution, educational programs, and equal opportunities. The book is both an indictment of past wrongs and a call to educate Americans about African history and its people.
The Case for Reparations
The Case for Reparations
Ta Nehisi Coates
In this influential article, Ta-Nehisi Coates makes a compelling case for reparations to African Americans, highlighting the long-lasting effects of slavery, Jim Crow laws, and housing discrimination. He argues that reparations are necessary to address the wealth gap, the loss of free will and family destruction imposed on slaves, and to provide a form of spiritual closure for the nation. Coates draws on historical examples, including the reparations paid by Germany to Israel after the Holocaust, and suggests a national discussion and policy initiatives to address these historical injustices.
Woke Racism
How a New Religion Has Betrayed Black America
John McWhorter
White Fragility
Why It's so Hard for White People to Talk About Racism
Michael Eric Dyson
Robin DiAngelo
María Enguix Tercero
How to Be an Antiracist
Connor Cobley
Sean Illing talks with John McWhorter, linguist, New York Times columnist, and author of Woke Racism: How a New Religion Has Betrayed Black America. They talk about the effects of modern antiracism, why McWhorter compares it to a religion, and the societal implications of the way we talk — and don't talk — about racism.
Host: Sean Illing (@seanilling), Interviews Writer, Vox
The Gray Area with Sean Illing 
