Christopher F. Rufo has been dubbed a “shit-stirrer,” someone who seeks out controversial topics and brings them to the attention of those who would be most outraged. In recent years, he has focused on issues related to race, gender, and campus leftism. While his tactics may be distasteful to some, Rufo’s ability to showcase the questionable behavior of those involved in these controversies is undeniable. His new book, America’s Cultural Revolution, takes a different approach by examining the individuals and ideas that have shaped these movements. Rather than targeting obscure figures, Rufo highlights well-known activists, academics, and communists from the mid- to late-20th century. This shift in focus allows for a more thoughtful exploration of the philosophies and rhetoric that have infiltrated today’s campuses, HR departments, and leftist political circles.
Interestingly, Rufo finds common ground with those he criticizes. Many of the figures he identifies as intellectual influencers of the woke movement, such as Herbert Marcuse, Angela Davis, Paulo Freire, and Derrick Bell, are also recognized by leftist intellectuals. These individuals argue that the fundamental values of liberalism, such as freedom and equality, are false and that the systems and institutions promoting these values are complicit in evil. To be “woke,” then, is to awaken from the ignorance of these false ideals and to work towards dismantling the political and social structures that perpetuate them.
Whether one appreciates Rufo’s book may depend on whether they view him as a carnival barker or an intellectual historian. His descriptions of these figures are meant for readers who are unfamiliar with their work and may not be interested in a sympathetic portrayal. Rufo’s goal is to highlight the more questionable aspects of their beliefs and actions, which often speak for themselves.
For example, Marcuse expressed his admiration for Mao, even during the time when Mao was responsible for the deaths of millions. Davis infamously stated that political prisoners behind the Iron Curtain “deserve what they get.” And Freire referred to Mao’s Cultural Revolution as a “genial solution.” These statements, when taken at face value, paint a clear picture of these individuals as deeply flawed.
Despite his clear animosity towards them, Rufo is fascinated by the influence these individuals have had in spreading their harmful ideas. He underscores Marcuse’s suggestion to infiltrate institutions and quietly implement radical change as particularly effective. The rise of critical race theory (CRT) is another example of the success of this approach. While Rufo has often criticized CRT, he acknowledges its widespread reach and impact outside of legal academia. It posits that white supremacy is pervasive in society and challenges supposedly neutral concepts like color-blindness and freedom of speech. Bell’s argument that white supremacy is deeply rooted and that racial progress is a facade resonates with those who adhere to this theory.
Rufo acknowledges that these ideas were met with criticism when they were first proposed. Even Henry Louis Gates Jr., a prominent critic, warned against the expansion of state power, which he believed was incompatible with democracy. However, these dissenting voices were largely overshadowed by the movement’s proponents. Rufo questions how these controversial theories gained such traction and emphasizes the need to reexamine the safeguards that allowed their spread.
However, Rufo’s lack of understanding of the purpose of universities is concerning, especially given his role as a university trustee. While he seeks to curtail the influence of leftist professors and administrators who hold views objectionable to many, he fails to grasp the importance of creating an intellectual space that encompasses a wide range of perspectives, even those that may seem strange or odious to some. True intellectual growth requires the inclusion and examination of differing viewpoints, even those that challenge our own.
In conclusion, Rufo’s book delves into the influential figures and ideas that have shaped the current cultural and political landscape. While his approach may be seen as divisive, his examination of these individuals and their ideologies sheds light on the complexities of these issues. Whether one agrees or disagrees with his assessments, America’s Cultural Revolution offers an opportunity to reflect on the societal forces at play and the need for thoughtful dialogue and understanding.
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