Wokeness: Evolving Definitions and Impacts

The concept of 'woke' has evolved significantly from its original positive connotation to a predominantly negative usage. Initially promoting awareness around systemic injustices, particularly regarding race, it now often embodies a worldview that perceives American progress as unattainable and attributes major societal issues to structural factors. Proponents of this perspective tend to favor blunt solutions like racial affirmative action, emphasizing a critical approach to systemic inequalities.