Wokism, a term used to describe a progressive ideology focused on social justice, inclusivity, and equity, has dominated cultural and political discourse in recent years. However, just as with any ideology, its influence is not immune to societal pushback and philosophical critique. Drawing on the Socratic method, we can analyze the foundations of wokism, its trajectory, and the reasons why it might be nearing its decline. Through a process of questioning its assumptions, evaluating its impact, and exploring alternative perspectives, we can better understand the potential end of wokism as a dominant cultural force.A recent study exposing the failures of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs was buried by mainstream media outlets. The New York Times and Bloomberg opted not to publish stories on the research, however, suggesting a coordinated campaign to protect DEI from criticism. Jimmy Dore discusses the various harms described in the study from DEI initiatives and how little scrutiny these programs receive
The DEI Report Suppressed (Jimmy Dore)
The Roots of Wokism
Every cultural or political ideology arises from a specific historical and societal context. Wokism, at its core, emerged as a response to systemic inequalities and historical injustices. It sought to address issues such as racism, sexism, and economic inequality through a lens of critical theory, which challenges traditional power structures and narratives. The ideology gained traction in academia, corporate culture, and mainstream media, promoting ideas such as intersectionality, privilege, and cultural relativism.
However, Socrates would remind us to ask: what are the underlying assumptions of wokism? Does it rely on sound principles, or is it built on unexamined beliefs? One core assumption of wokism is that society is fundamentally divided into oppressors and the oppressed, and that systemic change requires dismantling existing hierarchies. While this framework has helped highlight real issues, it also risks oversimplifying complex social dynamics and ignoring individual agency. By questioning whether wokism's foundational principles accurately reflect reality, we can begin to assess its limitations.
The Rise of Pushback
The influence of wokism has not gone unchallenged. Critics argue that its focus on identity politics, cancel culture, and ideological conformity has led to unintended consequences, such as the stifling of free speech, the erosion of meritocracy, and the alienation of moderate voices. Philosopher John Stuart Mill warned against the "tyranny of the majority," where dominant ideologies suppress dissent and alternative viewpoints. In this sense, wokism's perceived intolerance for opposing ideas has sparked widespread resistance.
For example, many individuals and communities have grown weary of what they perceive as moral authoritarianism. The policing of language, the rewriting of cultural norms, and the labeling of dissenters as complicit in oppression have alienated those who value free expression and individual liberty. As Socrates might ask, does wokism's approach to achieving justice lead to greater harmony, or does it sow division by fostering a climate of fear and resentment? The growing backlash suggests that many believe the latter to be true.
The Pendulum Effect: Why Wokism May Be Declining
History demonstrates that cultural movements often follow a pendulum-like trajectory. As one ideology dominates, it provokes counter-movements that seek to restore balance. Wokism, once hailed as a moral imperative, is now facing significant resistance from across the political spectrum. This resistance has manifested in political elections, shifts in corporate policies, and cultural critiques. For instance, the election of conservative leaders who prioritize individual liberty over collective guilt is seen by many as a rejection of wokism's perceived excesses.
Socrates would encourage us to question whether this shift represents progress or regression. Is the decline of wokism a rejection of the values it champions—such as equality and justice—or merely a reaction to its methods? If society values genuine progress, it must find ways to address injustice without resorting to ideological extremism or suppressing dissent.
The Role of Technology and Free Speech
One of the most significant challenges to wokism has been the rise of technology, particularly artificial intelligence and decentralized platforms. In the information age, control over narratives has become increasingly difficult to maintain. Social media has allowed diverse voices to challenge the mainstream narrative, while AI tools have empowered individuals to access a wealth of information and engage in critical dialogue.
As Socrates might observe, the democratization of knowledge undermines "top-down" control over ideas. Wokism's decline can, in part, be attributed to this shift toward "bottom-up" community building, where individuals are free to question, critique, and propose alternatives. In this sense, the resurgence of free speech and open dialogue marks a return to the values of classical philosophy, where ideas are tested through reasoned debate rather than enforced dogma.
H.G. Wells and the "New World Order"
The term "New World Order" was famously coined by H.G. Wells in his 1940 book of the same name. Wells, a prominent Fabian socialist, envisioned a global society governed by a centralized authority that would transcend national borders, individual liberties, and traditional values. This vision, rooted in collectivist ideals, sought to reshape humanity through education, science, and the erosion of what Wells saw as outdated religious and cultural norms. The Fabians, known for their incremental approach to socialism, believed that societal transformation could be achieved through the gradual infiltration of institutions—academia, media, and even intelligence agencies.
Socrates might have questioned the assumptions underlying Wells' vision. Can a society truly achieve progress by sacrificing individual liberty for collective control? Is it possible to build a just and equitable world without acknowledging the inherent value of personal responsibility and moral agency? These questions remain central to understanding why the Fabian project, though influential for much of the 20th century, has ultimately run its course.
The Fabian Influence and Its Decline
For decades, the Fabian influence permeated American institutions, particularly during the last 40 years. Progressive policies, identity politics, and the erosion of constitutional principles were often justified in the name of equity and justice. Even intelligence agencies like the CIA became entangled in ideological subversion, prioritizing social engineering over their foundational responsibilities. Wokism, as a cultural manifestation of this Fabian legacy, sought to dismantle traditional values and replace them with a new moral framework rooted in relativism and collectivism.
However, the recent defeat of the Democratic Party marks a turning point. Voters across the nation have rejected the Fabian agenda, signaling a desire to return to foundational American principles. The entrenched ideology within government agencies, academia, and the media is now being challenged, and the Constitution is once again being placed at the center of governance. What comes next is not merely a political shift but a cultural and philosophical renewal—a reawakening of the American spirit.
The "Undiscovered Country": A Future of Liberty
With the Fabian influence waning, America stands on the brink of the "Undiscovered Country." This phrase, borrowed from Shakespeare's Hamlet and often used to describe the unknown future, captures the uncertainty and opportunity of this moment. While we cannot predict the specific challenges that lie ahead, we can be certain that they will be met with the resolve of a free people, guided by the principles of liberty, faith, and reason. The Constitution, once undermined by subversive ideologies, is now regaining its rightful place as the supreme law of the land.
The resurgence of the Judeo-Christian-Stoic tradition provides a moral and philosophical foundation for this new era. These traditions emphasize the dignity of the individual, the importance of moral virtue, and the necessity of resilience in the face of adversity. They remind us that greatness is not achieved through the imposition of ideological conformity but through the cultivation of character, the protection of freedom, and the pursuit of truth.
The Death of Wokism and the Return to Greatness
The death of Fabian wokism signifies more than the end of a political ideology; it marks the rebirth of a nation. The rejection of identity politics, cancel culture, and collectivist ideals reflects a broader cultural shift toward unity and individual responsibility. Americans are rediscovering the values that made their country exceptional: faith, family, hard work, and a commitment to justice rooted in natural law.
As Socrates might have observed, the unexamined life is not worth living—and neither is an unexamined ideology worth following. The Fabian vision, though seductive in its promises, failed to withstand the scrutiny of reasoned debate. Its insistence on centralized control and moral relativism ultimately alienated the very people it sought to win over. In its place, a new vision is emerging—one that celebrates the strength of free individuals and the enduring wisdom of the Constitution.
Restoring the Constitutional Order
The Constitution, long sidelined by progressive agendas, is once again asserting its authority. The recent political shifts signify a return to limited government, federalism, and the rule of law. Intelligence agencies, once weaponized for ideological purposes, are now being reined in and held accountable to the principles enshrined in the Constitution. This restoration of constitutional order is not merely a political victory but a philosophical triumph—a reaffirmation of the idea that power must be constrained to protect liberty.
Socrates would likely applaud this development. For him, the pursuit of justice required a commitment to truth, dialogue, and the common good. The Constitution embodies these principles, providing a framework for governance that balances individual rights with collective responsibility. By chaining power to the Constitution, America is reclaiming its identity as a nation of laws, not of men.
America Will Be Great Again
The end of Fabian wokism and the decline of the "New World Order" mark the beginning of a new chapter in American history. What comes next is uncertain, but it is filled with promise. The "Undiscovered Country" beckons—a future unshaped by ideological conformity and subversive influence, but instead guided by the enduring principles of liberty, faith, and reason. The Judeo-Christian-Stoic tradition, long sidelined, is once again at the forefront, providing a moral compass for the challenges ahead.
America will be great again, not through the imposition of utopian ideals, but through the rediscovery of its foundational truths. By rejecting the Fabian project and reaffirming the Constitution, the United States is poised to lead the world—not through domination, but by example. As we face the unknown, we do so with confidence, knowing that our liberty is intact and our faith is strong. In the words of Socrates, "The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing." It is this humility, coupled with a commitment to truth and freedom, that will guide America into its greatest chapter yet.
Protopia: A Post-Woke Society
If we accept the premise that wokism is in decline, what comes next? Socrates would urge us to envision a future that builds on the lessons learned from wokism's successes and failures. A post-woke society might prioritize universal values over identity politics, focusing on shared humanity rather than division. It might also embrace meritocracy, individual responsibility, and free expression as guiding principles, while still addressing systemic inequities through constructive, inclusive dialogue.
This "new utopia" (or Protopia) would not be the one envisioned by early socialist thinkers like H.G. Wells, who emphasized collectivism and the erosion of personal responsibility. Instead, it would be a society where technology and philosophical inquiry empower individuals to thrive without fear of censorship or ideological persecution. As Socrates might say, the pursuit of truth requires courage, humility, and a willingness to question even our most deeply held beliefs.
Conclusion
The end of wokism, if it is indeed upon us, represents not just the decline of a specific ideology but also an opportunity for renewal. By applying the Socratic method—questioning assumptions, engaging in dialogue, and seeking truth—we can navigate this cultural shift with wisdom and purpose. Wokism's rise and fall remind us that no ideology is immune to critique and that the pursuit of justice must always be tempered by respect for individual liberty and reasoned debate. In the words of Socrates, "The unexamined life is not worth living." Likewise, an unexamined ideology is not worth following.