Wrong Side of History

Wrong Side of History, authored by Ed West, explores a diverse range of social, cultural, and political topics. It delves into the nuances of modern life, societal issues, and historical contexts to reflect on current challenges, trends, and the evolving nature of conservatism and cultural identity.

Social and Cultural Analysis Political Commentary Historical Contexts Conservatism and Nationalism Media and Society Mental Health and Wellbeing Architectural and Urban Planning Public Safety and Law Enforcement National Security and Defense Housing and Urban Development Religion and Spirituality Multiculturalism and Diversity Technology and Social Media Entertainment and Popular Culture

The hottest Substack posts of Wrong Side of History

And their main takeaways

Shah Shah a Come Come

284 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political theory Cultural Commentary Historical Analysis Current Events
  1. Iran's current regime is using old plans from the Shah's time for their nuclear program, but it hasn't achieved much yet. Many Iranians still feel a sense of nationalism despite their discontent with the government.
  2. There's a notion that society's challenges should be addressed with stability in government rather than just pushing for democracy. A monarchist approach could offer long-term solutions instead.
  3. London has a mix of wealth and poverty, and many people are leaving for other areas in search of opportunities. This shift is changing the cultural landscape, making London feel less connected to the rest of the UK.

The decline and fall of the Third British Empire

322 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
💾 History Empires Politics Culture Ideology Society
  1. Communism was more than just economics; it was a strong way of thinking that people believed was the only true way. When people stopped believing in it, the system began to crumble.
  2. Similar to the past, many people today are losing faith in current ideas that progressives promote, as they feel these ideas don't always work as promised.
  3. When a society lacks a strong vision or belief, it can lead to big changes in politics and culture, like what we're seeing with rising nationalisms.

The reason of crowds

436 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion Dictatorship Historical Analysis
  1. People often hide their true feelings in a dictatorship because they fear punishment. This leads to a situation where everyone thinks they are alone in their beliefs, even when many share the same opinion.
  2. Once a few individuals find safety in expressing their true thoughts, it can create a chain reaction. This 'preference falsification cascade' can lead to rapid change, like revolutions, when many join in revealing their real feelings.
  3. Sometimes, people who were neutral or even against a regime will quickly switch sides to avoid repercussions. This can lead to extreme actions from those who were once passive, just to align with what seems to be the winning side.

A Golden Age of Letters

527 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
📚 Literature Journalism Writing Publishing Media Culture
  1. Being a journalist can be tough and not very rewarding, so it's better to think about becoming a writer with your own audience. It's a different path that offers more creative freedom.
  2. Platforms like Substack are growing because they let writers earn money directly from their readers, rather than going through traditional media. This makes it a good time for independent writers.
  3. Successful independent writers tend to have moderate views and focus on building steady relationships with their audience, rather than chasing after controversy for short-term gains.

Richard Dawkins and the British genius

769 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Religion Philosophy Literature Science History
  1. Richard Dawkins is a leading figure in making complex scientific ideas understandable to everyone. His work, especially 'The Selfish Gene,' has changed how people think about evolution and behavior.
  2. Dawkins has a strong belief in science as a way to better understand the world, often expressing skepticism towards religion. He sees a conflict between scientific thinking and certain ideologies, especially those he believes contradict basic biological truths.
  3. His views about religion, particularly Islam, have made him a controversial figure. While he values open inquiry and skepticism, critics say he can be harsh and dismissive, showing how discussions about belief can be very divisive.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Anarcho-tyranny in the UK

360 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Law Justice Government Society International relations
  1. Confidence in British justice is very low right now. Many people feel the system is unfair and inconsistent.
  2. There's a common joke that British court cases often involve serious criminals getting light sentences while minor offenses lead to harsh punishments. This makes the justice system look ridiculous.
  3. Britain's reputation has changed over time. It was once seen as a leader in justice and freedom, but now some view it as a cautionary tale of mismanaged law and order.

Why the Danes do it better (and other stories)

289 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Justice System Political Opinion Social Issues Public Policy Cultural Commentary
  1. Denmark's summerhouse culture promotes happiness, as many people have access to homes by the coast. This is different from the UK's struggle with second home ownership and the politics around it.
  2. Danish politics thrive on transparency and honesty, helping to maintain trust and satisfaction among the public. This contrasts with the perception of politics in countries like Britain, where trust has eroded.
  3. The discussion around welfare in the UK highlights a connection between social breakdown and dependency on benefits, raising concerns about long-term consequences and the need for systemic change.

Whose land is it anyway?

451 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Identity History Reconciliation Colonialism
  1. Land ownership has a long and complex history, often involving conquest and struggle, rather than peace and cooperation. Many cultures have displaced others throughout history to take control of land.
  2. Modern discussions around land acknowledgments often focus on recognizing the historical injustices faced by indigenous peoples. These acknowledgments serve as reminders of the painful past and promote the need for reconciliation.
  3. There's a unique sense of guilt in some European settler nations about their history with indigenous peoples, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. This guilt, however, also highlights a desire for understanding and healing in the present.

... And Justice for All?

408 implied HN points • 25 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Justice System Public Opinion Political Commentary Social media
  1. Some politicians want Lucy Connolly released from jail for her tweet, but she remains imprisoned. Many feel mixed about whether she deserves to be there.
  2. There's confusion about why she was charged and denied bail, especially since a jury might not have given her a harsh sentence. People want to know who made these choices and why.
  3. While saying something harmful online can lead to jail, not all tweets warrant such serious punishment. Context matters when discussing freedom of speech.

Doctrine encrusting the lava of rebellion

223 implied HN points • 31 May 25
🎭️ Culture Social Change Philosophy Religious Studies Historical Analysis Literary Criticism
  1. Society has gone through a big change in values over the last several decades. What was once considered moral has shifted to a new set of beliefs.
  2. This shift can feel like more freedom or tolerance, but it's really about replacing one moral order with another. It's a change not just in laws but in what people believe is right or wrong.
  3. Just like in ancient Rome when Christianity took over, our current times show how one belief system can dominate and change the views of the elite as well.

The New Magisterium

227 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🎭️ Culture Arts Comedy Media Society History
  1. Censorship has changed over time; it used to be strict but now new taboos and speech codes have replaced the old ones. This means people still try to control what can be said, just in different ways.
  2. In the past, there was a time when it was okay for art and comedy to be very free and offensive. Shows like 'South Park' pushed boundaries that couldn't have been crossed before, showing a shift in cultural acceptance.
  3. Now, there seems to be a new movement to impose moral standards again, reminding us that the desire to censor has never really gone away, and it might be getting stronger.

Bess of Hardwick, mother of dynasties

299 implied HN points • 23 May 25
💾 History Architecture Biographies
  1. Bess of Hardwick was a powerful figure in Tudor England who built a strong dynasty through her marriages and connections. She became the richest woman of her time and left a notable legacy.
  2. She faced many challenges, including the deaths of her husbands and navigating a risky political environment. Despite this, she skillfully managed her family and properties, like Hardwick Hall and Chatsworth.
  3. Bess's life story showcases her intelligence, resilience, and ability to thrive in a male-dominated society. Her impressive homes stand as a testament to her achievements and enduring influence.

Coming to America

251 implied HN points • 24 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Immigration Social Issues Cultural critique Historical Analysis
  1. Many people feel that guilt from past events influences current decisions, sometimes leading to harmful consequences for future generations.
  2. Diversity and trust are important topics, but there often needs to be more focus on actual studies and facts rather than just personal opinions.
  3. The issue of social housing is complex, and current systems may not be benefiting those they are meant to help, leading to socio-economic challenges.

Thoughts of a most impure and libidinous character

180 implied HN points • 27 May 25
🎭️ Culture Censorship Film Society Morality Liberation
  1. Censorship decreased a lot at the end of the 20th century, which people started to see as a negative thing. Society began to value freedom and expression over restrictions.
  2. The Hays Code, which limited what could be shown in American movies, was a reflection of older moral values. It stopped filmmakers from including things like profanity, sexual content, or sympathy for criminals.
  3. This code and similar restrictions ended around 1968, leading to a more permissive society. Changes in laws around divorce, abortion, and homosexuality also played a part in this shift.

Britain’s Project 2029

617 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Public Policy Elections Government actions Political Commentary
  1. Trump's return to presidency has led to significant changes in American policies, especially regarding immigration and diversity programs. Many people are excited about these shifts.
  2. There is a noticeable contrast between the proactive measures of the new American administration and the lack of clear direction from the British government under Starmer. This difference is leading to a feeling of stagnation in Britain.
  3. Voters prefer a government that takes action and shows energy. In contrast, the current British leadership is seen as tired and lacking a strong vision, which is making them unpopular.

Travels in Vietnam

493 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🏝 Travel Cultural Travel Adventure Travel Family Travel
  1. Vietnam's traffic can feel chaotic and overwhelming, especially for newcomers. It's both scary and exhilarating to navigate streets filled with scooters and busy vendors.
  2. The cultural and historical richness of Vietnam is evident in its architecture and traditions. Many local customs honor the past, showing a unique blend of influences from various eras.
  3. Vietnam's economy has shown significant growth and positivity in recent years. The hardworking culture is clear, and there's a sense that the future holds even more promise for the country.

Rats!

527 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
💾 History Epidemics Medieval Society Health Science
  1. The Black Death, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, spread through fleas that lived on black rats. These rats were common in medieval cities and facilitated the disease's transmission to humans.
  2. Symptoms of the plague could vary, with bubonic plague being the most common form, marked by painful swellings or buboes in the body. Other forms like pneumonic and septicaemic plague had even higher fatality rates.
  3. The historical records show that the plague has struck multiple times through history, leading to massive fatalities and changes in society due to the horrors it inflicted.

Britain's sinking reputation

669 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Diaspora Politics Identity Nostalgia Cultural Studies
  1. Some people in the Anglo diaspora feel let down by Britain and its changing reputation. They look back at the old days with a mix of nostalgia and disappointment.
  2. Diaspora politics can be complicated, as it’s often based on memories rather than the current reality in the home country. Feelings about cultural issues can be influenced by generations of distance.
  3. The idea of cultural appropriation is shaped by individuals who have embraced new cultures while losing touch with their own roots. This can lead to misunderstandings and conflict.

‘I say the Americans really won the war’

417 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
💾 History War Politics Economics Society Culture
  1. Many people in Vietnam felt that the U.S. helped them realize they preferred American presence over communism after the war. This shows how complex feelings about the war can be.
  2. After the war, Vietnam faced many issues due to communist policies that hurt its economy, leading to hunger and poverty for many years. The country struggled with efficiency and food shortages at that time.
  3. Vietnam saw a big change when it shifted towards a market-based economy in the 1980s. This led to significant economic growth and lifted many people out of poverty.

Britain's Chernobyl?

569 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Public Trust Political crisis Economy Cultural Issues
  1. The current Labour Government is losing popularity quickly after taking office, which raises concerns about their planning and leadership vision. People are feeling uncertain about the economy and the political situation, leading to a crisis-like atmosphere.
  2. There's growing public distrust in institutions like the police and government, especially after the controversies over how grooming gangs were handled. This has deepened people's suspicions about the system and those in charge.
  3. Some commentators compare the situation in Britain to the Chernobyl disaster, suggesting that like the Soviet Union, the country is facing serious systemic issues that go unaddressed. This comparison highlights the failures in accountability and safety within political and bureaucratic structures.

The case against child voters

375 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Voting Rights Legislation Youth Politics Civic engagement Democracy issues
  1. Young people under 18 face many restrictions in life, which raises questions about their ability to vote responsibly at 16. If they can't make certain adult choices, why should they vote?
  2. There's a trend showing that young people are maturing later than in past generations. This makes some wonder if they really understand the consequences of their voting decisions.
  3. Relying on 16-year-olds to vote could lead to them being easily influenced by adults. If they're still seen as immature in many aspects, giving them the vote could be risky.

Europe's absent-minded revolution

759 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Migration Populism European Politics Cultural Issues Social Policy
  1. Europe is experiencing a political shift to the right, with right-wing populist parties gaining support and power in multiple countries. This reflects a broader public concern about immigration and economic challenges.
  2. The initial intent behind mass immigration to Europe was to fill labor gaps, but many assumptions about immigrants and their integration proved to be wrong. As a result, tensions have risen over the cultural and economic impacts of immigration.
  3. The debate over immigration in Europe is more about culture and community than economics. Many people value cultural sameness and fear the changes that immigration brings to their society.

What will become of the Sensitive Young Men?

432 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Cultural analysis International relations Historical context
  1. Sensitive young men feel a strong connection to political figures like Trump. They believe that attempts to stop him reflect a broader struggle against their own experiences in society.
  2. There is a growing discussion about how sexual repression might play a crucial role in building civilizations, rather than causing issues as commonly thought.
  3. Political changes often arise from crises. People are more willing to accept big changes when they're facing hardship, making them more open to new ideas.

The beautiful rebirth of Dresden (1)

356 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
💾 History War Architecture Culture Reconstruction Society
  1. Dresden experienced devastating bombing in February 1945, leading to significant loss of life and destruction of its beautiful architecture. It was once called the 'Florence on the Elbe' due to its stunning structures.
  2. The city's recovery after the war was slow, with many buildings left in ruins rather than rebuilt immediately. Some important landmarks were saved, but much of the city's true charm faded during this time.
  3. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, efforts began to restore Dresden, including the famous Frauenkirche. This restoration symbolized healing and reconciliation between nations, showcasing the enduring spirit of the city.

Twitter's White Terror era

527 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Media influence Political Movements Historical comparisons Censorship
  1. The end of strict censorship on Twitter has led to more vocal expressions of conservative viewpoints. This shift can sometimes feel aggressive and even vengeful.
  2. The current Twitter atmosphere is compared to historical events where one group experiences oppressive rule, followed by a backlash from those silenced.
  3. The changes on social media mirrors shifts in power dynamics, much like political movements throughout history, where voices once suppressed start to push back.

Britain is institutionally 'anti-racist'

479 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Racism Justice Power Morality Policy
  1. Having leaders who share the same values as their people is important for stability. When leaders and citizens have different beliefs, it can create disconnect and distrust.
  2. Some recent cases of sexual abuse show troubling behaviors among those in power. It seems like their priorities are misplaced, focusing on irrelevant factors instead of justice.
  3. There are concerns about how victims are treated based on race. This reflects a serious issue in the justice system where it seems some victims are not given fair treatment.

The lone wolves of Germany

313 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Crime Politics Policy Public Safety
  1. Weak states can lead to collective punishment of citizens. When a government is ineffective, it might target its own people as a way to manage conflicts.
  2. Immigrants can sometimes fall through the cracks of a system. Even if their asylum applications are rejected, they might end up in situations where they commit crimes or cause harm.
  3. The public reacts strongly to tragic events caused by individuals. Such incidents can spark debates about immigration policies and safety in society.

Will the last young professional to leave Britain turn off the lights?

584 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Housing policy Social Welfare Immigration Youth Issues Economic Inequality
  1. Housing costs in London are extremely high, making it hard for young professionals to afford living there.
  2. There's a growing concern about social housing being allocated to newcomers, which complicates the housing situation for local residents.
  3. Many young, skilled people are thinking about leaving Britain because they feel the current systems aren't working for them and they aren't getting enough support.

The beautiful rebirth of Dresden (2)

303 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Architecture History Urbanism Art Heritage
  1. Dresden has seen a lot of restoration after being heavily damaged in WWII. Local efforts have helped rebuild parts of the city to bring back its historical beauty.
  2. A community group called the Dresden Historical Neumarkt Society played a big role in this rebuilding. They gathered thousands of signatures to push for the restoration of key sites.
  3. People in Dresden are excited about their city's revival and are looking forward to making it a beautiful place like other major European cities.

Our philanthropists and their oligarchs

389 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Donations Foreign influence Democracy Political Campaigns
  1. Elon Musk is being criticized for influencing European politics, especially in Britain and Germany. Some politicians worry that his social media power can spread misinformation and support extreme causes.
  2. There are calls for stricter rules on political donations to prevent foreign billionaires like Musk from affecting elections. Groups like Best for Britain say we need to protect our democratic system from outside influence.
  3. Some think tanks want to limit how much one person can donate to political parties. They believe this will help stop British politics from becoming too much like American politics.

The Terrible Loneliness of Genius

427 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Art history Artists Mental health Cultural influence
  1. Vincent van Gogh struggled with loneliness and mental health issues throughout his life. His passion for art often clashed with his personal struggles, causing him to feel isolated.
  2. Despite facing rejection and lack of recognition during his lifetime, Van Gogh created around 200 artworks while living in Arles. This period was productive but also led to his mental breakdown.
  3. Today, Van Gogh is celebrated as a brilliant artist with a significant legacy. His brother Theo's widow worked hard to promote Van Gogh's art after his death, helping to secure his place in art history.

Who speaks of the Armenians?

731 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Human Rights Historical Analysis Geopolitics
  1. The Armenian genocide in 1915-1917 is often overlooked, despite its horrific nature. Many Armenians fear that the hatred from that time still exists, leading to more violence.
  2. The conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan has roots in historical tensions, but it intensified with recent wars over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Many civilians have suffered and been forced to flee.
  3. Azerbaijan has significant oil and gas resources that influence its global relationships, often overshadowing its human rights abuses. Western countries continue to engage with Baku for energy supplies, ignoring its actions against Armenians.

Journey to the Imperial City

308 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🏝 Travel Cultural Food History Tourism Adventure
  1. Vietnam has a mix of modern life and its communist past, with shops and decor that reflect both eras. It's interesting to see how the economy thrives alongside this history.
  2. The food and coffee culture in Vietnam are vibrant and diverse, with different flavors in the north and south. Trying local dishes like egg coffee can be a fun adventure.
  3. Traveling through Vietnam can be a real experience, highlighting both beautiful tourist spots and the impact of past wars. It's essential to be cautious about food, especially when trying local cuisine.

Technology indistinguishable from magic

470 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Pharmaceuticals Gene Therapy Chronic Illness Public Health
  1. Medical technology has advanced a lot recently. Many serious diseases, like diabetes and HIV, are now much easier to treat than before.
  2. New treatments for conditions such as schizophrenia and allergies are being developed, showing promise for better ways to help people who suffer from these issues.
  3. Innovations like gene therapy and cancer vaccines are changing how we approach some of the most challenging health problems, potentially offering cures or significantly improved treatments.

Wandsworth Prison Blues

365 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Society Entertainment Criminal Justice Human behavior
  1. A British prison officer became famous for being in an explicit video with an inmate, which caused a lot of social media buzz. This incident shows how some scandalous situations can quickly go viral and attract public attention.
  2. The officer, while married and a mother, had an OnlyFans account where she shared adult content, reflecting a trend among some individuals in the public eye to mix their private lives with explicit online personas.
  3. The video was recorded by a fellow inmate, highlighting a certain rebellious culture within the prison. This culture can create unusual dynamics among inmates and staff, sometimes leading to serious consequences.

Keeping it in the Family

508 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Marriage Society Health History Religion
  1. Cousin marriage was common among British nobility in the past, but its prevalence has declined due to health concerns and changing cultural norms. Many people were worried about its effects on children's health.
  2. The Catholic Church has historically opposed cousin marriages to promote social ties beyond the family, which helped shape modern democratic societies and reduce corruption.
  3. Despite health risks, cousin marriage remains popular in some communities, providing social and financial support. This can create strong networks but also lead to higher chances of genetic disorders in children.

Rome’s miserable fate

242 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
💾 History Ancient Civilizations Epidemics Cultural analysis
  1. Farming led to more people living close together, which made it easier for diseases to spread. When humans and animals are close, they can share illnesses, causing epidemics.
  2. Rome had big cities that were perfect for outbreaks of disease. These epidemics were a major reason why the Roman Empire eventually fell apart.
  3. The fall of Rome was a complicated topic with many reasons given, but one strong argument is that a number of deadly diseases wiped out a large part of its population.

Truth in the old myths

408 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
💾 History Ancient Civilizations Archaeology Mythology Cultural Studies Historical Figures
  1. Ancient myths, like those of Troy and Agamemnon, might have some truths behind them. Archaeological discoveries are showing that these stories could be based on real events.
  2. Visiting historical sites like Mycenae can inspire strong feelings about the past. It makes you think about the legends and heroes that might have lived there.
  3. New findings in DNA and archaeology challenge our view of old myths as just stories. They suggest that some of these legendary tales might have a basis in reality.

The chilling dawn of multiracial fascism

650 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Populism Party Dynamics Political Discourse
  1. Democrats are losing popularity because people care more about rising prices than political debates. Many voters prioritize their economic well-being over party loyalty.
  2. Trump has changed the game by uniting different racial groups in his support. His approach shows that diversity can work well in politics, differing from traditional views.
  3. Right-wing populism may be growing in non-traditional ways, with diverse communities supporting it. This reflects a shift in how voters align their beliefs with political parties.

Progressive realism and Perfidious Albion

584 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Foreign Relations Conflict International Law Human Rights
  1. Armenia is caught in a tough spot geopolitically, needing support from larger powers such as Iran, Turkey, and Russia but often feeling abandoned. This ongoing struggle shapes their national identity and foreign relations.
  2. Azerbaijan has a strong military backed by Turkey, leaving Armenia feeling vulnerable and lacking allies. Many Armenians fear another attack from Azerbaijan in the near future.
  3. Britain's foreign policy appears to neglect Armenia's history and needs, as seen in recent comments from officials that seem to favor Azerbaijan. This raises concerns about human rights and ethical responsibilities in international relations.