Who introduced the term "double consciousness"?

The term "double consciousness" was introduced by W.E.B. Du Bois in his seminal work, "The Souls of Black Folk," published in 1903. This concept describes the internal conflict experienced by subordinated or colonized groups, particularly African Americans, as they navigate a society that devalues their identity. Du Bois articulated the feeling of having a dual identity—a sense of self as both an American and a Black person—which creates a tension as these individuals must reconcile their cultural heritage with the pervasive racism and societal expectations around them.

Du Bois's concept is crucial for understanding issues of race, identity, and societal structure, as it highlights how systemic oppression can lead to a fractured sense of self. This idea has been influential in sociology and other fields, encouraging further exploration of identity and consciousness in relation to societal power dynamics.