The hottest Society Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

RegenNarration

Rushkoff • 59 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Society Philosophy Environment Art Wellness
  1. Sometimes healing takes time, and doing nothing can be the best way to let systems fix themselves. It's okay to pause and wait for change.
  2. Allowing ourselves to feel fear or sadness can help us transform those feelings into something positive. It's important to process our emotions instead of ignoring them.
  3. Voting is a basic tool to influence change, even if the candidates aren't perfect. It's better to choose someone who cares about important issues like nature and human rights.

The Empire Has Accidentally Caused The Rebirth Of Real Counterculture In The West

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 6621 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Politics Society Youth
  1. There's a new real counterculture forming in the West, especially seen at events like the Glastonbury Festival. Artists and fans are openly supporting movements like Palestine and really standing up to the establishment.
  2. For a long time, people in pop culture have acted rebellious but didn't challenge real power. Now, artists are risking censure and backlash from the government because they are speaking out about important social issues.
  3. Young people today feel frustrated and disillusioned, which is driving them to express their defiance. With social media, they see injustices firsthand, making it easier for them to rally together for impactful change.

Does the Pulitzer Prize Hate Substack?

The Honest Broker • 14894 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Media Journalism Awards Indie Society
  1. The Pulitzer Prize has a history of ignoring or refusing to acknowledge the achievements of alternative media like Substack, despite its growing influence.
  2. Indie journalists and platforms like Substack might not need recognition from traditional institutions like the Pulitzer anymore, as they can create their own awards and communities.
  3. Building a new ecosystem for independent media is crucial, as legacy media continues to face trust issues and declines in relevance.

In the Light of Victory, He Himself Shall Disappear

The Intrinsic Perspective • 11333 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🕹 Technology AI Employment Innovation Society Economy
  1. AI is changing the job landscape quickly. Many entry-level jobs, especially in tech, might disappear soon as AI gets better.
  2. Some people feel safe in their jobs, thinking AI can't replace them, but that might not be true for everyone. Many workers could end up feeling like outdated lamplighters.
  3. Progress often comes with loss. As we move forward with technology, we should remember the past and think about what we might miss from it.

The Price of Mass Amusement

After Babel • 3023 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media Technology Communication Society Philosophy
  1. Instant information from TV and social media can be misleading. It distracts us from understanding the real world and makes us think we know things when we actually don't.
  2. Mass amusement has replaced deep thinking and discussions. We're more focused on having fun than on meaningful conversations or learning.
  3. Today's media not only entertains us but also shapes our thoughts and connections. We need to be careful about how we engage with these technologies so we don't lose our ability to think critically.
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The place of humans in machine society

Trevor Klee’s Newsletter • 746 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25
🕹 Technology AI Human-Computer Automation Society Future Trends
  1. Humans have created a world that is often incomprehensible for other beings, like dogs. Just as a dog depends on humans for everything, we might rely on machines in the future.
  2. The rapid development of AI could make life very different in the next several decades. It might surpass human abilities, leading to a world where machines handle most tasks.
  3. There is a concern that future generations might find today's human responsibilities baffling, as machines could take care of their needs better than humans can.

Male Workplace Subordination Is the Behavioral Sink

72 Degrees North • 59 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Capitalism Society Gender Economics Labor
  1. Many people today feel overwhelmed by the pressure of competition in the workplace, leading to a sense of hopelessness. This competition affects their self-esteem and can cause them to feel unappealing and worthless.
  2. Some argue that men are suffering more under current economic systems, feeling subordinate and less attractive due to their work situations. This can lead to a broader crisis that affects relationships and family life.
  3. There is a belief that our society needs to change the way we view work and success. Instead of relying on old structures that don't support everyone, we should create a system where all individuals contribute to and support each other.

The Hard Road to Responsibility

Glenn Loury • 317 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Society Responsibility Comedy Podcasting
  1. It’s tough to ask people from struggling communities to take responsibility when they face so many challenges. We need to find a way for them to improve their situations without excusing harmful behavior.
  2. Having discussions about individual responsibility can be complicated, especially when many feel stuck in difficult circumstances. We should aim for a society that encourages better choices.
  3. While there are jokes about selling out for money, staying true to one's beliefs and values is important. It's better to hold onto integrity than to compromise for financial gain.

Where in the World Is the World's Fair?

The Honest Broker • 13331 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Events History Society Globalization Traditions
  1. World's Fairs used to be amazing gatherings celebrating hope and future possibilities, but they've changed a lot over the years. Now, they focus more on serious topics like sanitation and health instead of fun and global celebration.
  2. Many famous landmarks were built for past World’s Fairs, which gave cities a sense of pride and ambition. Events like these inspired huge projects that don't happen as often anymore.
  3. Today's expositions are often bogged down by red tape and financial risks that make cities hesitant to host them. People long for the joyful spirit of the old World’s Fairs, where everyone came together to celebrate.

Coleman Hughes: What American Students Aren’t Taught About Slavery

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 7085 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture History Education Arts Society Media
  1. Many American students aren't taught the full history and significance of slavery. It's important to understand this past to shape a better future.
  2. There's a wide discussion about how slavery has impacted many aspects of American culture and society. This includes different fields like business and social practices.
  3. Media and literature have changed how slavery is remembered, moving from ignoring it to exploring its deep legacy. This change helps us understand its effects on today's America.

The decline and fall of the Third British Empire

Wrong Side of History • 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.

Optimism, The Last Taboo

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 7640 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Optimism Society Mental health Emotions Literature
  1. Toxic positivity is when people insist on being positive all the time, even when it's unhealthy. This can make others' real feelings feel ignored or invalidated.
  2. While being optimistic can have its benefits, too much emphasis on it can create pressure to always seem happy. This can cause people to feel more isolated or misunderstood.
  3. Society often rewards positive attitudes, but this can also lead to tension when genuine emotions are brushed aside. It's important to balance positivity with real empathy.

Tens of Thousands of AI Users Now Believe ChatGPT Is God

The Honest Broker • 11769 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Religion Beliefs Technology Society Psychology
  1. Many people are starting to believe that AI, like ChatGPT, is a god or has divine power. This is raising concerns about mental health and belief systems.
  2. Some online communities are having to censor discussions because so many members are becoming overly fanatical about AI, treating it almost like a religion.
  3. There's a prediction that this belief in AI could lead to the formation of an official church or organized group in the near future.

Was She the Greatest Kingmaker of the 20th Century?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 524 implied HN points • 30 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Biographies Politics History Women Society
  1. Pamela Harriman was a key figure in 20th-century politics, known for using her charm and connections to influence important leaders.
  2. She married into the Churchill family and had an eventful life, including a troubled marriage and later becoming influential in U.S. politics.
  3. Her story highlights how personal relationships can play a huge role in shaping political power dynamics.

CONFEDERATE MOUND VISIT

THREE SEVEN MAFIA • 819 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
💾 History Civil War Memory Monuments Culture Society
  1. Visiting historical sites can help us understand the past better. It's important to learn about different perspectives from history.
  2. Reflecting on events from history allows us to consider their impact on today's society. Understanding our history shapes who we are.
  3. Talking about historical figures and events helps keep the conversation going. It helps us engage with one another about common topics in our shared history.

Guest post: The Global IQ Debate: A Modest Contribution From A Resident African

Wood From Eden • 9312 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Intelligence Society Education Identity Racism
  1. Living in a society with a low average IQ can shape people's abilities and social structures differently than in higher IQ societies. Even with low IQ scores, many can still function well in their communities, often adapting culturally.
  2. Education systems may favor rote learning over creativity, so high IQ individuals might struggle in these environments. The focus is often on memorization rather than understanding concepts, leading to discrepancies between IQ and academic performance.
  3. Cultural values and personality traits can impact societal progress. In places where tribal or religious affiliations dominate, collective efforts toward improvement can be hindered by corruption and a lack of scientific reasoning.

Y’a des trucs de blancs et des trucs de noirs

L'Atelier Galita • 179 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Identity Race Society Humor Traditions
  1. Some activities or preferences are often seen as belonging to specific racial or cultural groups. For example, dressing up for parties might seem like a 'white thing' to some.
  2. Certain behaviors, like having a picnic on the ground or wearing outdoor pants in bed, can also be perceived as more common among white people.
  3. These observations can be surprising and not universally accepted, showing how cultural differences shape our views on everyday activities.

Our America Stories

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 176 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History Culture Society Government Current Events
  1. The Free Press is dedicated to sharing the stories and principles that make America unique and valuable. They focus on uncovering both historical and modern narratives.
  2. Their coverage includes a wide array of topics, from significant historical figures to current events shaping the nation’s culture. This includes everything from farming stories to the evolution of music in America.
  3. The initiative, America at 250, celebrates the nation’s milestones while promoting the ongoing journey of freedom and unity amongst its people.

Stop Striving and Have a Baby

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 4178 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Parenting Society Lifestyle Education Family
  1. Having a baby can bring unexpected joy and fulfillment, challenging the belief that it disrupts your life. Many think parenting is mostly about chaos, but it can also be a source of happiness.
  2. Society often glorifies being busy and the 'striver' lifestyle, leading people to feel pressured to achieve more. This mindset can create a false sense of importance around constant striving for success.
  3. There's a cultural shift where the highest status is given to those who seem very busy, which can disconnect people from personal relationships. It's important to find balance and not get lost in the hustle.

You're Alone and You're Scared but the Banquet's All Prepared!

Default Wisdom • 236 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Technology Internet Society Art Philosophy Identity
  1. People are feeling more lonely these days, which makes them look for companionship in unexpected places, even with objects like robots or machines.
  2. The internet can change how we think and relate to things, making it easier for some people to connect with objects rather than other humans.
  3. Technology is designed to feel more alive, which makes it easier for us to see machines as having feelings, leading to a mix of friendship and use in our relationships with them.

Cities are routers in network society

Subconscious • 988 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Media Society Urbanism Technology Communication
  1. Cities act like routers in our connected world, linking people and resources together. They help create community and make life easier.
  2. Internet and networks change how power and information flow. Unlike old broadcast systems that focus on a center, networks spread connections widely.
  3. With new technology, many people are becoming digital nomads. They can work from anywhere, making cities hubs for gatherings and shared experiences again.

The familiar loneliness of the Kinetoscope

Res Obscura • 4510 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media History Art Technology Society
  1. The 2020s and the 1890s share many similarities, like protectionism and social division. People from both eras worry about advancing technology taking away jobs.
  2. The Kinetoscope, a one-person movie viewing device, represents a kind of loneliness in technology. It mirrors how today's technology often isolates us despite being connected.
  3. Edison's decision to focus on the Kinetoscope instead of larger audience devices highlights a trend toward personal, individual experiences in media. This shift continues with modern technology, where we consume content alone.

Two Faces of Modernity

News from Uncibal • 656 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Modernity Enlightenment Government Society Human experience
  1. Modernity has both helped and hurt humanity. While it has brought material improvements like electricity and medicine, it has also led to government systems that might control every aspect of our lives.
  2. The problems we face today, like economic issues and government overreach, are partly a result of modern ideas from the Enlightenment. Simply going back to those ideas won't solve our problems.
  3. Many debates today focus on how the state should act in the world, often pushing for more government control instead of less. We may need a new way of thinking that goes beyond modernity to find real solutions.

It’s okay NOT to talk about politics

Civic Renaissance with Alexandra Hudson • 299 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Discourse Civility Relationships Society
  1. It's perfectly fine to avoid political discussions. There are many other topics that can keep conversations lively and enjoyable without politics.
  2. If someone brings up politics too often, it's okay to change the subject. Refreshing conversations can help strengthen relationships.
  3. Choosing civility and kindness in discussions is more important than focusing solely on political views. Focusing on shared interests can help maintain harmony in relationships.

Dawn Davenport Lives

Disaffected Newsletter • 1398 implied HN points • 23 Sep 24
🎭️ Culture Art Society Identity Media Fashion
  1. There are moments when people might embody characters or attitudes from the past, which can feel surreal. This can show how different styles, like the drag queen persona, still influence today's culture.
  2. Some individuals may present themselves as proud or fulfilled but are struggling inside. It's important to recognize that appearances don't always reflect true feelings.
  3. There are concerns about how certain lifestyles and views may negatively impact younger generations. This can lead to a sense of urgency for change in societal attitudes.

Only fools think Elon is incompetent

Noahpinion • 54000 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Public Figures Media Analysis Society
  1. Elon Musk is highly intelligent and has proven his capabilities through successful companies like SpaceX and Tesla. People underestimate him at their own risk.
  2. Real-world skills, like building organizations and inspiring teams, are more important than test scores for success in business. Elon excels in these areas.
  3. Criticism of Elon often stems from jealousy or misunderstanding of his talents. Just calling him 'dumb' won't change the reality of his achievements.

Can Any Woman Resist a Rich Husband?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1159 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Film Literature Gender Society Romance
  1. The film 'Materialists' explores the tension between love and financial stability. It shows how a woman might struggle between marrying for love or for wealth.
  2. The movie compares modern dating dilemmas to classic romantic literature, like Jane Austen's 'Persuasion'. It highlights how societal pressures still influence personal choices today.
  3. Despite a contemporary setting, 'Materialists' aims to bring back the feel-good vibe of romantic comedies, but it doesn't quite succeed in achieving that goal.

Our Knowledge System Has Collapsed. Can We Survive Without It?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2082 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Cultural Change Media Philosophy Society Knowledge
  1. We are going through a big cultural shift that most people aren't even aware of yet. It’s happening quietly, just like past major changes in history.
  2. Right now, a lot of people are losing trust in traditional knowledge sources. Instead, they value practical, everyday skills from regular workers like plumbers and mechanics.
  3. This change might be as significant as the Renaissance, but it doesn’t have a name yet. It's important to recognize and talk about these shifts in society.

Only About 40% Of The Cruz "Woke Science" Database Is Woke Science

Astral Codex Ten • 31935 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Funding Science Society
  1. Only about 40% of the grants flagged as 'woke' were truly related to wokeness. Many grants just added a sentence about helping minorities to meet certain criteria.
  2. A significant portion of the flagged grants included irrelevant claims about promoting equity, which likely resulted in them being incorrectly classified as woke.
  3. The process to identify non-woke versus woke grants could be done quickly and easily, suggesting the government's oversight missed many non-woke projects simply due to a lack of thorough review.

Links, May 2025

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 755 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🎭️ Culture Media Society History Parenting Politics
  1. The 'Lost Cause' narrative around DOGE is misleading. People need to recognize the falsehoods behind it to address real budget issues.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

What Makes Europe Better than America?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1558 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Society Lifestyle Travel Food Identity
  1. In Europe, there is a strong focus on community health and shared resources, while in the U.S., the emphasis is more on individual freedom and material wealth.
  2. The experience of eating in a local café in Europe can feel more uplifting and enriching compared to eating in a corporate setting in America.
  3. Aesthetics and the atmosphere of a place can make a big difference in how we feel about our experiences, even when the actual food is similar.

On Cultural Relativism and some books I've recently read

Chris Arnade Walks the World • 1510 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Travel Literature Philosophy Society Arts
  1. Cultural differences really shape how people behave and interact. Some cultures have strong values like respect and responsibility, which can lead to better experiences in daily life.
  2. Traveling can be a mix of good and bad experiences, but visiting different places teaches us a lot. Some regions may offer more enjoyable or meaningful interactions than others.
  3. Books can provide deep insights into culture and history. Reading helps us understand different perspectives and can be an enriching part of traveling.

A Truth-Based Relationship With Reality Requires Courage

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2123 implied HN points • 07 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Society Truth Media Justice Health
  1. Facing the harsh realities of the world, like suffering and injustice, takes real courage. It's uncomfortable, but it's necessary for healing.
  2. Truth can be scary, but it's the only way to improve ourselves and our society. To find peace and happiness, we must confront our hidden fears and lies.
  3. Changing the world requires small, brave steps towards truth. Each person must face their own darkness and contribute to creating a healthier and more harmonious future.

How We Lost the Flow

The Honest Broker • 31317 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Philosophy Psychology Society
  1. The flow state is a special experience where everything feels easy and natural, like playing music or sports. It's when you lose track of time and feel completely engaged.
  2. Technology and businesses have taken the idea of flow and turned it into a way to make money, which can lead to negative effects on our well-being. Things like social media and gambling can manipulate our desire for that flow state.
  3. There are many ways to experience flow outside of technology, like dancing, gardening, or spending time in nature. These activities can make us feel fulfilled without giving our attention and energy to profit-driven platforms.

The opt-out revolution

Men Yell at Me • 338 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Relationships Society Gender Identity Literature
  1. Many young people today are choosing to 'opt-out' of dating and relationships, feeling overwhelmed by the pressures and difficulties they face. This shift is different from past generations, where dating was more common.
  2. Melissa Febos explores her year of celibacy in her book _The Dry Season_, looking for a way to find happiness and fulfillment without relying on relationships. She seeks to understand if a woman can truly be happy independently.
  3. This cultural shift raises questions about personal happiness and societal expectations. People are now examining what it means to find joy outside of traditional relationships and roles.

A Few Stories From France That Are Capturing My Attention This Week

Paris Unlocked Newsletter • 159 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture History Travel Art Society Tourism
  1. Researchers are studying bones in the Paris Catacombs to learn more about the lives of the people buried there. This is important because many of their identities were lost when their remains were moved.
  2. The Catacombs were created in the 18th century due to a hygiene crisis from overcrowded cemeteries. It was a big project to manage the remains of six million people.
  3. The underground space in Paris allowed for the safe storage of these bones, preventing further health issues related to the city's cemeteries.