The Rise and Retreat of Wokeness: A Historical Perspective

In this episode, we dive deep into the evolution of wokeness, tracing its roots back to the 1980s as a more aggressive form of political correctness. We explore how the moralistic 'prig' mentality has shaped societal norms and behaviors, shifting from genuine advocacy to performative outrage. Unpacking the influence of social media, the rise of cancel culture, and the role of universities, we discuss the factors that fueled this phenomenon and examine the backlash against it. Join us as we analyze the past, present, and future of performative moralism and its implications for society.