Essay Links 'Wokeness' and 'Cancel Culture' to 'Feminization of Culture'

A recent essay by Helen Andrews, titled "The Great Feminization," posits that contemporary "wokeness" and "cancel culture" are not primarily rooted in Marxist or postmodern ideologies, but rather in the increasing "feminization of culture." Prominent author Christina Hoff Sommers highlighted this perspective in a recent social media post, stating, "What if wokeness and cancel culture are rooted —not in Marxism or postmodernism—but in the feminization of culture? Fascinating essay by @herandrews." The essay, published in Compact Magazine, has sparked considerable discussion across various platforms.

Andrews' central thesis argues that as institutions become demographically more female, "feminine patterns of behavior" begin to dominate, manifesting as phenomena like cancel culture. She suggests that these patterns prioritize empathy over rationality, safety over risk, and cohesion over competition, leading to a different approach to conflict resolution and institutional governance. This shift, according to Andrews, fundamentally alters how organizations function and address dissent.

The essay frequently references the 2005 resignation of Harvard President Larry Summers as a foundational example of this trend. Summers' departure, following controversial remarks about women in science, is presented as an early instance where emotional appeals and social pressure, rather than purely logical arguments, led to a high-profile "cancellation." Andrews contends that such incidents are indicative of a broader cultural transformation.

While the essay has garnered significant attention, it has also drawn critique. Some commentators argue that linking "cancel culture" solely to gender dynamics overlooks historical precedents of academic and social purges, suggesting that such phenomena are not new and have varied drivers. Others point to political alignment, rather than gender, as a more significant factor in contemporary cultural debates.

Andrews' work suggests that if the "Great Feminization" continues, institutions may face challenges in maintaining traditional objectives like open debate and the unfettered pursuit of truth. The essay concludes by proposing that addressing this perceived feminization might involve re-evaluating anti-discrimination laws and workplace norms to foster a more meritocratic and less "feminized" environment.