James Lindsay's New Discourses Warns: 'Woke Nationalism' Threatens Conservative Movement

James Lindsay, founder of New Discourses, recently took to social media to caution against a burgeoning ideological trend, stating, > "Nationalism isn’t the enemy—woke nationalism is. And it’s rearing its head again." This statement highlights Lindsay's concern over a phenomenon he frequently refers to as the "Woke Right," which he argues is a dangerous internal development within conservative circles.

According to Lindsay's analysis, "woke nationalism" or the "Woke Right" adopts the tactics and worldview of the progressive Left, such as moral grandstanding, identity politics, shaming, and victimhood, but applies them to right-wing causes. He describes it as "Woke Fascism" or "Neo-Fascism," noting its practical manifestation in behaviors like targeted influence campaigns, social media manipulation, and grievance-based identity politics focused on groups like "white Christian men." This approach, Lindsay asserts, is a perversion of traditional conservatism.

Lindsay posits that this "Woke Right" emerges as a reaction to the perceived overreach of the progressive Left, fueled by social media's amplification of outrage and a sense of cultural loss among some conservatives. However, he argues that instead of upholding conservative principles of reason, individual liberty, and good-faith debate, this movement mirrors the very behaviors it claims to oppose. He emphasizes that it is a radical, revolutionary splinter that rejects true conservatism.

The New Discourses founder warns that this internal ideological shift risks fracturing the conservative movement by alienating allies through demands for ideological purity and the "cancellation" of those who deviate. Lindsay contends that adopting the Left's "playbook" ultimately undermines conservative principles and can lead to defeat by making the right appear hypocritical to moderates and independents. He stresses that true conservative strength lies in principles rather than mirroring the tactics of the opposition.