Du Bois Watches Standup: Double Consciousness Revisited

The article delves into the concept of 'double consciousness' as introduced by W.E.B. Du Bois, discussing its historical and contemporary relevance. It argues for expanding the term's application beyond race, proposing a cultural perspective that encompasses various primary categories such as gender, class, and ethnonationality. The author analyzes the process through which double consciousness is created, focusing on the elements of othering, objectification, and the tension between 'warring ideals.' The study is based on a comprehensive analysis of stand-up comedy specials, which serve as a semi-controlled setting for exploring the complex social process of self-construction. The article highlights the unique perspectives of comedians as 'professional strangers' and 'stranger professionals,' offering insights into the creation and resolution of double consciousness. The study concludes by emphasizing the potential for synthesizing warring ideals and achieving a more synergistic 'dual' identity, contributing to a broader understanding of the phenomenon.