Richard Hanania's Newsletter $10 / month

Richard Hanania's Newsletter focuses on foreign policy, American politics, and social science through a critical lens, examining themes such as personal growth, societal issues, the impact of ideology on culture and education, the dynamics of American political movements, and the implications of technology and capitalism. It challenges current narratives, offering insights on a wide range of topics from the abortion debate to the nature of intellectual engagement.

Personal Development Societal and Cultural Issues American Politics Foreign Policy Education and Ideology Technology and Politics Capitalism and Market Forces Health and Lifestyle

The hottest Substack posts of Richard Hanania's Newsletter

And their main takeaways

Government Science and the Prestige Economy

1219 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25

Government funding for science is important because there are some types of research that private companies won't invest in, even though they can benefit society. Basic research is valuable, even if it doesn't have immediate economic benefits.
The idea of crowding out suggests that government funding may take talent away from private companies, but research shows that government support often leads to more innovation in the private sector as well.
Prestige economies, which reward knowledge and research, can motivate scientists to do valuable work even if it doesn't yield direct financial gains. This is different from private sector jobs where profit is the main goal.

What's Behind Trump's War on Science?

731 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Analysis Political Commentary Populism

The Trump administration cut science funding significantly, with research funding dropping drastically in many fields. This has created a crisis for the National Science Foundation.
The slow distribution of research funds is linked to both incompetence and a focus on politically favored themes. This shows a lack of value for basic research.
Overall, this issue reflects broader problems with populism, where anger can lead to harm without clear targets, often causing more chaos than resolution.

Anti-Abundance Types Are Wrong About Housing Market Concentration

3462 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Housing policy Market Regulation Political Ideology Consumer Rights

Housing prices are rising mainly due to supply restrictions, not because of big companies controlling the market. If there are fewer houses available, prices go up.
Although some believe that market concentration in housing is a problem, evidence shows that the housing market is actually quite competitive across the U.S.
Some regions with stricter zoning laws face higher housing costs, suggesting that easing these regulations could help make housing more affordable.

Two Cheers for the Democratic Establishment?

3706 implied HN points • 28 May 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Political parties Political Ethics Media

Biden's leadership has faced criticism due to his declining health, but it’s important to compare how the Democratic establishment handles challenges versus the Republican side. The Dems seem to prioritize accountability and ethics more.
Even when Democrats make mistakes, the ethical standards they follow make them different from leaders like Trump. They seem to genuinely care about the rule of law, unlike some in the Republican party.
It's crucial to recognize that while both sides have flaws, the Democratic establishment has dealt with its issues more honestly. We shouldn’t ignore their mistakes, but we also shouldn't pretend they're as severe as the problems on the other side.

Girl Belongs to the World

2096 implied HN points • 18 May 25

🎭️ Culture Parenting Humor Social Behavior Child development Relationships

Kids have a moment when they realize they are joking, which shows a shift in their social understanding. It's fun to see their expressions change as they enter this new playful space.
Adults can joke without needing a clear transition, showing sophistication in humor. This helps keep conversations lively and engaging.
As a parent, kids may see you as a tool for fun or food, and they'll get more independent as they grow. Children can quickly shift from playful to serious, showing their cleverness in social interactions.

Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Links, May 2025

755 implied HN points • 30 May 25

🎭️ Culture Media Society History Parenting Politics

The 'Lost Cause' narrative around DOGE is misleading. People need to recognize the falsehoods behind it to address real budget issues.
Cruise ships are getting bigger and better because they aren't held back by strict regulations. This shows how market decisions can lead to impressive innovations.
The unification of Italy was influenced more by foreign victories than by internal strength. It's interesting to see how some states are formed in unusual ways.

Right-Wing Intellectuals under Trump, Andrew Jackson and MAGA, "Ethnic Niches" and More

1462 implied HN points • 21 May 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Intellectuals Trump Era Populism Activism

Different intellectuals have different roles in the political landscape. Some focus on specific issues and work within the current system to make a difference.
It's okay for intellectuals to express discontent at times. Everyone has their own style when it comes to speaking out against things they believe are wrong.
Having a strong sense of integrity can lead people to voice their opinions more openly. Some find it hard to stay quiet about issues that frustrate them.

A Mate Selection Theory of Feminization

4145 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25

🎭️ Culture Gender Studies Social norms Relationships Feminism Marriage

Women often struggle to find a balance between having a high-quality partner and ensuring loyalty. Some prefer to chase after attractive partners, while others focus on stability with someone they can trust.
As societal views on monogamy change, men may adapt by showing more sensitivity and supportive behavior towards women. This can involve acting against traditional masculine stereotypes to prove their loyalty.
The shift in norms around relationships has created two distinct cultural groups: one that embraces traditional masculinity and conservatism, and another that leans towards feminist and liberal values. This has changed how people view gender roles and relationships today.

Trump's Executive Branch Revolution

4193 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive Power Federal Agencies Constitutional Law Political Ideologies

Trump is changing how the executive branch works, using power in new ways that could impact future presidents. He wants to control parts of the government, like USAID, and has plans for the Department of Education.
There's a long history of presidents not spending money that Congress gives them, called impoundment. This can change how money is spent and can lead to a stronger executive branch.
The balance of power in the government is shifting. Just like how the Supreme Court influenced laws in the past, Trump's actions could redefine what future presidents can do.

Mailbag #4, Plus Update on Tuesday Event

292 implied HN points • 16 May 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Public Discourse Civic engagement Political Commentary Social Issues

There is an event happening in DC on Tuesday with notable guests, and tickets are still available.
The author is doing a Q&A mailbag, where anyone can ask questions but only paid subscribers will get answers.
Questions will be prioritized based on likes from readers, but the author won't answer questions that have been previously discussed.

Thoughts on Trump Ending Affirmative Action in Contracting

4925 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Analysis Political theory Civil Rights Political Activism Government regulations

It's possible to change policy even if you aren't famous or super connected. By bringing important issues to people's attention and making a strong argument, you can influence the conversation around those policies.
Timing is key in politics. Being vocal about an issue when it matters most can lead to real changes. If people are focused on something important, it's a good time to suggest new ideas.
Conservatives have started realizing the need to fight against 'wokeness' and its influence in government and business. The recent action to end certain affirmative action policies shows a significant shift in their approach.

Letting Palestinians Move Is Not "Ethnic Cleansing"

3535 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East Immigration International relations Human Rights Political Discourse

People often argue about definitions of words instead of focusing on real-life impacts and solutions. It's important to prioritize human well-being over getting stuck in technical debates.
Allowing Palestinians to move to safer places can be a positive solution. Instead of considering it 'ethnic cleansing,' it should be seen as a humanitarian effort to help those in need.
Many people in Gaza might want to leave for better opportunities, especially after facing conflict. Supporting their choice to move could lead to a more peaceful future for everyone involved.

Nationalists Already Have the World They Want but Need to Pretend Otherwise

3706 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Nationalism Foreign Aid Immigration Public Policy Political Discourse

Nationalists often claim that the U.S. government prioritizes foreigners over citizens, but the reality shows that a tiny percentage of the federal budget actually goes to foreign aid. Most funds are directed towards helping American citizens.
Even though nationalists argue for policies that benefit Americans, they often ignore facts about how much the government already does for its own people. This leads to misconceptions about foreign aid and immigration.
The nationalist mindset may come from a tribal instinct, where they feel the need to show loyalty to their group. However, this can make them overlook the good that comes from global connections and shared interests.

Boy, Girl, Boy

7509 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24

The author finds it funny and interesting to refer to his son simply as 'Boy,' emphasizing a laid-back approach to parenting. He believes kids shouldn’t be put on a pedestal and recognizes the importance of letting them be who they are.
He sees his son as unique and smart, showing early signs of great intellectual curiosity in things like math and geography. The author hopes to foster this curiosity while also worrying about his son's tendency to follow others and his emotional sensitivity.
With the arrival of his daughter, he notes her carefree and confident personality, contrasting with her brother's delicacy. He appreciates her independence and humor, highlighting the differences in how his children interact with the world.

Why You Shouldn't Worry about AI Taking Jobs

3291 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25

🕹 Technology AI Labor Economy Growth Regulation

Many jobs we have today are not really necessary and could be replaced by AI. This is because some jobs exist due to government rules or old systems that don't make much sense anymore.
People generally prefer human interaction over machines, especially in industries like hospitality, art, and healthcare. Humans provide a unique value that machines can't replicate, making these jobs safer from replacement.
Even if AI takes many jobs, our economy is expected to grow significantly, which can help support those out of work through wealth redistribution. Governments have the ability to provide for everyone, even if many people end up jobless.

Defeat Racism by Heightening the Contradictions

3706 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Racism Nationalism Far-right Identity politics Social Issues

There are two types of people in white nationalist groups: some are smarter and focus on ideas, while others are just angry and uneducated. This creates a conflict in their beliefs.
A lot of the smart people might avoid extremist groups because they don’t want to associate with those who have more basic racist views. They care about progress and quality.
Talking about these contradictions can help people see that there are better ideas out there. Engaging with their views might not win over everyone, but it can show some there's no future in extreme identity politics.

The Ultimate Guide to Trump's Day 1 Executive Orders

3389 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive orders Immigration Energy Policy Social Issues Government Regulation

Trump's Day 1 executive orders focus on making energy production easier. This means fewer regulations on things like oil and gas, which could lead to more energy available for everyone.
He signed orders to end 'diversity, equity, and inclusion' programs in government, which many believe unfairly prioritize certain groups over others. This shift aims to promote hiring based on merit instead.
Trump also took a tough stance on immigration, changing rules around citizenship and tightening enforcement. This includes declaring that children born to non-citizens in the U.S. might not be granted citizenship.

Should America Buy Greenland?

3559 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy National Security Territorial Issues Political Ideologies Cultural dynamics

The idea of America buying Greenland has gained some serious consideration, even if it's still unlikely. Recent political moves and discussions have made it a topic worth thinking about.
Greenland is a sparsely populated area with some financial dependence on Denmark, and many locals are considering independence but worry about their living standards. The situation is complex and shows their practical mindset.
Overall, the conversation highlights America’s inclination towards expansion and influence, suggesting that cultural and economic changes can dominate current political landscapes.

Non-Leftist Media and the Michael Shellenberger Problem

5583 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Media Critique Public Opinion

Repeating the same complaints without real analysis doesn't help understand politics. It's not enough to just say what's wrong without explaining why it matters.
Some commentators give reasons to support their political views, but they often ignore important issues. If someone only blames 'elites' without discussing specific actions, it shows a lack of real engagement.
Many people seem interested in hearing simple, repetitive messages rather than deep understanding of current events. This undermines learning and can make people less informed about actual politics.

Ayn Rand as Self-Help: The Good, the Bad, and the Tragicomedy

2535 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25

📖 Philosophy Ethics Psychology Self-help Individualism Capitalism

Ayn Rand encourages people to find joy in their everyday work. She believes that seeing your job as valuable can lead to a happier life.
She suggests it's okay to judge yourself and others to motivate self-improvement. Feeling like a 'loser' can drive you to do better things in life.
Rand argues that being selfish is part of human nature and should be accepted. Understanding this can help us build a happier and more productive life.

Ayn Rand for Pragmatists

2804 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25

📖 Philosophy Capitalism Individualism Ethics Political theory

Ayn Rand offers a strong moral argument for capitalism, suggesting it's based on individual rights and the ability of people to use their minds and work for their own benefit.
Rand argues that focusing on selfishness as a virtue can help distinguish between genuine personal interests and the collective demands of society, which often ignore individual rights.
Her heroes and villains serve as clear examples to motivate people to defend capitalism and fight against collectivism, emphasizing that strong narratives can inspire political action.

Two Ways to Understand the "Vibe Shift"

2511 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conservatism Cultural Shifts Political trends Media influence Public Opinion

There seems to be a 'vibe shift' happening in conservative culture, where they are gaining more popularity and recognition. This shift is surprising given past perceptions of conservatives as being less culturally influential.
The current political climate shows that even small victories can have large cultural impacts. This raises questions about whether the shift will continue or if it is just a temporary trend.
As the conservative vibe shifts, it challenges old beliefs about the hostility of institutions like Big Tech. This suggests that the relationship between conservatives and these institutions might be changing.

Uncle Sam as the Hegelian Hammer

4071 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24

🌍 World Politics Middle East Civil War U.S. foreign policy Terrorism

The Assad regime in Syria collapsed after years of civil war, leading to uncertainty about the country's future. There are concerns that power vacuums can cause chaos and that extremist groups might still pursue their goals.
Bashar al-Assad's rule was marked by hereditary leadership and lack of legitimacy, which led to his government's reliance on fear and violence to maintain control. This situation was not sustainable in the long run.
Despite the difficulties ahead, the fall of the Assad regime allows for the possibility of new governance. The U.S. can play a role in guiding Syria towards better prospects by applying pressure on illiberal forces.

Somewhere in America...

5583 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion Voting behavior Political parties Electoral process Democracy

People's experiences shape their political beliefs. Different backgrounds can lead individuals to align with either party based on personal stories and values.
Public opinion matters in a democracy. Even if many people have extreme views, elections remind them that they are part of a larger society with diverse opinions.
The process of voting and engaging in politics can feel fragmented and chaotic, but it reveals who will ultimately hold power, making it an interesting and important spectacle.

Politics is Full of Bad People Who Do Good Things

4779 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ideology Conservatism Education & Policy Governance

Sometimes, people who support bad ideas can still create good outcomes. It's important to recognize that even if someone has questionable morals, their actions can still benefit society.
In politics, it can be necessary to form alliances with those we don't agree with. Supporting a cause we believe in might require working with people whose values we find unappealing.
Political strategies often need to adapt to reality. It's crucial to prioritize practical wins for individual freedoms, even if it means partnering with groups that don't fully align with our principles.

I Am Paying Reparations to the Shrimp

4096 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24

📖 Philosophy Ethics Animal Rights Utilitarianism Debate Charity

It's important to think about the impact of our food choices on animals, like shrimp, and consider ethical options.
Donating to animal welfare projects can help make a positive change and relieve some guilt about eating certain foods.
Finding a balance between personal enjoyment and ethical responsibility can be tough, but small actions, like donating money, can make a difference.

2024 Was the Year I Didn't Change Much

2633 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Ideological analysis Cultural critique Immigration Policy

The writer feels more confident that mainstream political science accurately describes society, as there's no sign of a democracy in crisis and the economy is growing well.
The writer has become disillusioned with the Tech Right, observing that talented individuals in right-wing circles can start falling for misinformation and conspiracy theories.
Despite facing criticism, the writer values intellectual honesty over maintaining friendships, believing it’s essential to prioritize truth and integrity in discussions about politics and social issues.

Indifference to Woke Isn't Enough

3950 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political trends Party Dynamics Election Strategies Activism

Democrats need to actively confront woke activists, not just ignore them, to gain people's trust on social issues. Simply being indifferent won't work.
Many voters are concerned about wokeness impacting Democratic policies, especially around identity issues like sports and affirmative action. This shows that people connect these views with the party as a whole.
Political parties are made up of different groups, and changing one leader's image won't change the party's values overnight. The overall coalition matters more in the long run.

Bioaccelerationism Is a No-Brainer

2682 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24

🕹 Technology Biotech AI Innovation Health Ethics

Bioaccelerationism focuses on advancing biotechnology that improves reproduction, making it easier for couples to have children. New methods are coming out that can help reduce the stress and difficulty associated with traditional fertility treatments like IVF.
Unlike some technologies that can quickly change the world, biotechnology develops slowly, giving society time to understand its effects. This means we can monitor and ensure safety as new methods emerge over time.
The goals of biotech often align with the needs of parents and society. Developing health, intelligence, and beauty can benefit everyone, and the risks are generally limited to individuals or families rather than posing a threat to society as a whole.

Why Americans Should Die for Ukraine

3876 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political narratives Liberalism Populism Foreign Policy Social Issues

People often look for simple stories in politics that have clear heroes and villains. This need for an enemy helps people feel motivated and gives their beliefs more meaning.
Many popular political narratives are misleading or even completely wrong. Instead of focusing on the truth, these narratives promote false ideas that can create division and conflict.
To feel fulfilled, people need meaningful narratives that often include a common enemy. Focusing on foreign threats can unify people at home and help them find purpose beyond internal conflicts.

Thoughts on Being a California Fire Refugee

1682 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Wildfires Natural Disasters Urban life Personal Stories Environmental Impact

Unexpected fires can lead to urgent evacuations, often with little notice. It's important to stay alert and ready to move when living in fire-prone areas.
During emergencies, normal routines can quickly change and navigating in the dark can be challenging. Using visible landmarks helps in such situations.
Staying productive during stressful times can provide comfort and a sense of purpose. Finding ways to engage in work can help manage anxiety and offer distractions.

Conservatives Are Lying on Immigrant Crime

3657 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Policy Crime Rates Public Discourse Political Rhetoric Data Analysis

Many people incorrectly believe that immigration leads to higher crime rates. In reality, data shows that most immigrants, especially legal ones, tend to commit less crime than native-born citizens.
Some politicians use scary language about immigrants increasing crime to push their agenda. This can create a false narrative that makes the public fearful and misinformed about the actual impact of immigration.
Immigrants often face more crime themselves and can actually help reduce crime rates in communities by starting businesses and contributing to the economy. So, they can serve as a buffer against crime rather than a cause of it.

More on the Vibes Shift, Alexander the Great, Elderly Mobsters, and More

1194 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Dynamics Government Policy Cultural critique Populism Historical Analysis

The discovery of Propecia for hair loss came from studying children in the Dominican Republic who had unique genital characteristics. This led to the development of a drug that helps prevent hair loss by replicating a natural enzyme deficiency.
In South Korea, older people are becoming involved in right-wing politics, similar to trends seen in the U.S. This shows how different generations can align politically for various reasons, often driven by fear or conspiracy beliefs.
The shift in Silicon Valley regarding corporate power highlights that political influence often outweighs economic power. Companies can change their policies quickly under political pressure, showing that government authority is central to real power.

Donald Trump and the Decivilizing of the Right

1975 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conservatism Political culture Election Analysis Trumpism

American conservatism is changing in a way that some people compare to third world movements. This shift involves less focus on traditional values.
The concept of 'Elite Human Capital' is about understanding who is crucial for maintaining strong institutions, not just about being smart. It suggests that even those who aren’t traditionally regarded as intelligent can still be valuable in certain roles.
The flaws in the Trump movement highlight the importance of character and truth in political movements. When a political group idolizes someone who goes against these values, it signals a deeper issue within the movement.

Rightists as Low Decouplers: Examples from the Comments

3096 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ideology Conservatism Democracy Online Discourse

High decoupling means focusing on individual issues without being influenced by group biases. This helps in having more productive debates and understanding complex situations better.
People on the right often struggle to decouple their opinions from their political identity. This makes it harder for them to acknowledge facts or engage in meaningful discussions about events like Trump's coup attempt.
Conspiracy theories often go hand-in-hand with low decoupling. When people can't separate facts from their beliefs, it leads to stubbornness and a lack of productive dialogue.

The Origins of Elite Human Capital Institutions and Communities

1779 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Institutions Governance Elites Authoritarianism Cultural norms

Elite Human Capital institutions emerge when smart and idealistic people come together, seeking truth and shared values over just making money. These communities form naturally as individuals find others like themselves.
Wealth-maximizers and meaning-maximizers represent two paths that people can take in these communities. While some focus on financial success, others prioritize making meaningful contributions to society.
Authoritarian regimes often suppress elite human capital because educated people pose a threat to their power. When these institutions are stifled, it can hinder a country's overall progress and development.

Is Trump America-Pilling the Left?

2730 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Election Dynamics Public Opinion

Wokeness comes and goes in cycles. People and institutions eventually realize that extreme wokeness doesn’t work, leading to a decline in its popularity over time.
Liberals are learning from past electoral losses and shifting their strategies. They're picking candidates who appeal to a broader base rather than sticking strictly to progressive views.
Trump's actions have shifted the focus from racism to concerns about democracy. As fear of his anti-democratic tendencies grows, liberals may become more patriotic and moderate in their responses.

Time to Retire "Demographics is Destiny"

2535 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Demographics Political theory Political parties

People's political views often don't come from their backgrounds but from emotions and cultural connections. This means demographics alone don't predict how someone will vote.
Political appeal can change over time, as seen in shifts in how different groups vote. Issues like personality and presentation can matter more than policies.
Instead of focusing on demographics, it's more effective to convince influential people and share ideas. The masses are often influenced by trends and marketing rather than deep understanding.

Announcing: Book on Elite Human Capital

2145 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Election Analysis Human Capital Trump administration Cultural Issues

The author is working on a book about Elite Human Capital, which aims to explore the differences in leadership and capabilities between groups with high and low human capital.
The book will consist of both revised previous work and new content, with a focus on explaining why understanding human capital is important in today's polarized society.
Current political events tie into the book's themes, highlighting how low human capital can influence leadership choices and decisions in government.

My Highly Decoupled Election

2755 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Election Strategies Party Dynamics

In politics, some people see their side as both morally and intellectually superior, while others recognize flaws in their own group. Those who can see both sides more realistically might have an edge in understanding what's really happening.
Political ads can sometimes focus on negative stereotypes rather than real issues, showing how some campaigns manipulate fears to gain support. This reflects a deeper issue within the political messaging from both major parties.
The outcome of the election may not bring significant change, as either group represents a mix of flawed people and policies. Regardless of who wins, there's an opportunity to hope that either negative behavior or bad policies won't prevail.