Modern Wisdom #390 - John McWhorter - How Does Anti-Racism Hurt Black People?
14 snips
Oct 28, 2021 
John McWhorter, a linguist and author, challenges contemporary views on anti-racism. He discusses how the concept of 'woke racism' can be harmful to Black individuals, questioning popular narratives from texts like 'White Fragility.' McWhorter argues that anti-racist movements often treat Black people as simplistic, highlighting the disconnect between elite ideologies and everyday experiences. He emphasizes the need for meaningful change over performative gestures and critiques the impact of social media on activism.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Evolution of "Woke"
- The word "woke" has evolved from meaning politically informed to pejorative.
- This shift highlights the power of ridicule in language.
Woke Racism's Focus
- Woke racism prioritizes displaying awareness of racism over its actual impact on Black people.
- This performative anti-racism can unintentionally harm the very group it claims to help.
Race Obsession Genesis
- The George Floyd murder and the pandemic lockdown fueled the current obsession with race.
- Social media amplified this, allowing for rapid spread and intensification of these discussions.
