Why are wokesters celebrating the seven deadly sins?

The concept of the seven deadly sins—pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, and sloth—has long served as a moral compass in Western religious and philosophical traditions. Yet, in today’s rapidly changing cultural climate, some critics argue that so-called “wokesters” are not only ignoring these ancient warnings but actively celebrating the behaviors they denote. Why is this happening, and what does it say about contemporary values?

Redefining Pride: From Sin to Virtue

Traditionally, pride was viewed as the root of all other sins—a destructive self-importance. Today, however, pride has been reimagined. Celebrations like “Pride Month” exemplify this shift, as individuals are encouraged to express and embrace their identities unapologetically. For many, this is a necessary response to centuries of marginalization. Critics, however, see it as the elevation of ego over humility, a direct inversion of the original moral lesson.

Greed and the Pursuit of Social Capital

While greed once referred to the insatiable pursuit of material wealth, modern social dynamics have complicated its meaning. In the era of social media, accumulating followers, likes, and influence can be seen as a new form of greed—one rooted not in materialism but in social capital. Some observers contend that “wokesters” are just as susceptible to this as anyone, using activism to build personal brands and careers rather than advance genuine social change.

Lust as Liberation

Lust, historically framed as a dangerous and uncontrolled desire, is increasingly celebrated in contemporary culture as a form of liberation. Movements for sexual freedom and body positivity challenge the notion that desire is inherently corrupt. Proponents argue that embracing lust empowers marginalized groups to reclaim agency over their bodies. Detractors worry this shift erodes social norms meant to protect individuals and communities.

Envy and the Politics of Comparison

In today’s fiercely competitive society, envy is often reframed as a tool for social critique. Calls to “tax the rich” or “dismantle privilege” sometimes blur the line between righteous anger and simple envy. Supporters claim this focus is necessary to address systemic injustice. Critics, however, caution that constant comparison can breed resentment and undermine solidarity.

Gluttony, Consumerism, and Self-Care

Gluttony is no longer just about overindulgence in food; it has evolved to include consumerist excess and the endless pursuit of “self-care.” Influencer culture often encourages people to “treat yourself,” turning consumption into a virtue. While self-care can be a crucial remedy for burnout, skeptics argue that it sometimes masks unhealthy patterns of overindulgence or escapism.

Wrath as Righteous Indignation

Contemporary activism frequently channels wrath as a force for justice. Outrage over social and political issues is framed not as a sin but as righteous indignation. Social media amplifies these emotions, making them both more visible and more contagious. Supporters of this approach believe that anger is necessary to confront injustice. Others caution that unchecked wrath can devolve into destructive tribalism and cancel culture.

Sloth and the Rejection of Hustle Culture

Finally, sloth—once condemned as laziness—has been rebranded in some circles as a critique of “hustle culture.” Emphasizing rest, boundaries, and the rejection of toxic productivity, proponents argue that slowing down is a radical act of self-preservation. However, this can draw criticism from those who see it as promoting complacency or entitlement.