Wake up

"Wake up" (also "WAKE UP", "Wake up, sheeple", often with an exclamation mark) is a phrase often used in conspiracy theory and alternative spirituality circles. Commonly seen in online social media videos like on TikTok, it encourages viewers to question their perception of reality and recognize supposed hidden truths. The message usually follows a pattern: presenting various conspiracy theory claims in succession using dramatic imagery, and ending with "WAKE UP" to make the point. Sometimes, the phrase is used with a self-aware or ironic tone, acknowledging its overdramatic nature.

Possible historical precursors

The way "wake up" is used today has similarities to older messages that address the listener or reader suddenly. For example, William Cooper wrote:

I firmly believe that all adult secret societies that practice degrees of initiation and consider the members to be "illuminated" are branches of the original ages-old Illuminati. Their goal is to rule the world. The doctrine of this group is not democracy or communism, but is a form of fascism.

The doctrine is totalitarian socialism. You must begin to think correctly.

(Emphasis added.)

Cooper’s phrase "You must begin to think correctly" shifts from explanation to a direct command, much like "WAKE UP" is used in some popular social media videos. This sudden change is meant to emphasize the importance of the message and encourage critical thinking.

Cooper himself used the phrase.

Modern trends in social media videos

In modern contexts, particularly on TikTok, "wake up" is used in a specific way. Typically, the message is constructed with a succession of conspiracy theory claims, often accompanied by dramatic imagery or video clips, creating a serious tone. These videos quickly present various assertions, sometimes linking unrelated theories to build a broader narrative, and conclude with the emphatic phrase "WAKE UP."

Common themes in these videos include the idea that multiple conspiracy theorys are interconnected, suggesting that everything is part of a larger hidden agenda. This snowballing effect leads to complex theories where simulated reality or holographic universe concepts are introduced, making the entire narrative seem like a vast, all-encompassing conspiracy theory. The use of "WAKE UP" serves as a final prompt for viewers to reconsider their beliefs and recognize the supposed pervasive manipulation.