Written by Christopher Thompson.
In a time where clarity seems scarce, a fresh ideology has risen, branding itself as the solution to all societal ailments. Ryan Zickgraf, in his sharp critique for The Telegraph, unveils the complexity and absurdity of this emerging mindset which he labels “It’s All One Thingism.” This philosophy suggests an interconnectedness so vast that it extends even to contradictions, proposing that every social issue can be morphed into a single narrative.
Scarlett Rabe, a vocal advocate of this ideology, encapsulates its expansiveness by asserting, “Palestine is every single issue in one issue.” Her words echo through various movements, each bending their unique struggles into this overarching cause. Whether it’s fighting for reproductive rights, climate action, or racial equality, all are seen as facets of the same gem. Yet, this blending raises questions about the dilution of individual causes and the practicality of such a sweeping approach.
The Extremes of Solidarity
Zickgraf doesn’t shy away from pointing out the irony and extremism that “It’s All One Thingism” fosters. He highlights groups like “Fatties for a Free Palestine” and mentions transgender advocates who, despite their likely peril in places like Gaza, fervently support the Palestinian cause. The ideology demands not just empathy, but identity merger—where personal characteristics and geographical realities dissolve into a collective identity, often at the cost of ignoring the harsh realities faced by those they aim to support.
This extreme solidarity morphs into a form of narcissistic identity politics, where the specifics of a person’s condition or location become irrelevant. Zickgraf’s critique is sharp, illustrating a surreal landscape where even symbols of hate like swastikas are repurposed under the guise of woke activism. Malcolm Harris’s response to anti-Semitic graffiti in Pennsylvania—reinterpreting it as a stance against genocide rather than a symbol of hate—reveals the convoluted logic at the heart of this ideology.
Our Take
It’s crucial to reflect on the implications of adopting a blanket approach to diverse problems. While interconnectedness can enhance understanding and support across different struggles, it risks trivializing the unique challenges each issue presents. The pursuit of universal solidarity should not lead us into a maze where distinct voices lose their power and identity. A balanced approach, recognizing the specificities of each cause while fostering broad support, might be the more prudent path forward.
