In defense of wokies and normies

Advocating for the d*vil

Friend of the pod Justin Giboney once asked our listeners if they could (1) thoroughly explain the beliefs of their ideological opponents, (2) list at least five strengths of their opponents’ ideologies, and (3) list at least five weaknesses of their own ideology. 

The pages of this Substack have made a name for deriding mainstream discourses that are devoid of nuance, complexity, and originality. Oftentimes, these include positions that are conventionally “woke” or “normie.” We are guilty of not always being very charitable…at least not at Mr. Giboney’s level.

But here’s an attempt to emulate his lofty example: we want to take a moment to play devil’s advocate and give consideration to the truths that exist within these positions. To do so, we’ll offer the examples of two dear acquaintances, whom we love deeply despite (and sometimes because of) the fact that we disagree on and argue about so many matters.

First, a clarification.