TRIGGERnometry Dr David Starkey: Where Woke Culture Comes From
Mar 29, 2020
David Starkey, an eminent historian and broadcaster, dives into the roots of woke culture, linking it to historical ideologies like those of Rousseau and Voltaire. He critiques how modern political discourse is shaped by these philosophical influences and discusses the religious underpinnings of contemporary beliefs. Starkey highlights the fragility of Western civilization post-WWI and warns against misconceptions of historical progress. He emphasizes the necessity of understanding history to navigate today’s political landscape, advocating for civility and humor in discourse.
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Historical Perspective on Modern Society
- Modern society's introspection and obsession with individualism are not new.
- Rousseau's philosophy, which emphasized the self and feelings, mirrors current trends and is a root cause of societal issues.
Cycles of Liberalism
- History shows cyclical patterns of liberalism, with each cycle starting with a rejection of the past.
- The French Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, and globalization are examples of these cycles, all ending in self-destruction.
Susceptibility to Far-Left Ideas
- Modern society is susceptible to far-left ideas due to increased safety and security.
- This comfortable environment allows for excessive introspection and susceptibility to outrage, exemplified by the coronavirus hysteria.