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David Rieff Critiques Wokeness in Universities and Corporations

12/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

David Rieff, author and critic of woke ideology, argues that wokeness has infiltrated universities and museums.
He describes wokeness as "moral and social hypochondria" and warns it promotes hypersensitivity over reason.
Rieff is skeptical of corporate wokeness, arguing it is insincere as firms keep ties with Israel.
He notes his views are detailed in his book, "Desire and Fate," and sees some alignment with U.S. President Donald Trump's anti-woke stance.

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Story summary

David Rieff, author and critic of woke ideology, argues that wokeness has infiltrated universities and museums.
He describes wokeness as "moral and social hypochondria" and warns it promotes hypersensitivity over reason.
Rieff is skeptical of corporate wokeness, arguing it is insincere as firms keep ties with Israel.
He notes his views are detailed in his book, "Desire and Fate," and sees some alignment with U.S. President Donald Trump's anti-woke stance.