The hottest Culture Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Culture Topics

Another day in paradise

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 16 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Art Food Personal Growth Social Commentary
  1. The creative process has two phases: gathering ideas freely and then adding structure to them. It's important to let each phase finish naturally.
  2. Setbacks in habits can be framed positively, like a market 'correction'. This can help you stay mindful and improve your habits.
  3. Experiences can vary wildly, like the contrast between a fancy club dinner and a social dance. These moments show the diverse experiences life offers.

Indigenous land acknowledgements often ignore history

Critical Mass • 26 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Indigenous rights History Social justice Cultural Studies Public Discourse
  1. Indigenous land acknowledgements can sometimes be simplistic and miss the complexity of history. It's important to recognize that history is not always straightforward, and we should be careful not to create myths.
  2. Some acknowledgements make strong claims about Indigenous ownership that might not be fully accurate. It's necessary to look at historical context and evidence before making those statements.
  3. We need to talk honestly about history and science related to land ownership and Indigenous rights. Celebrating cultures should not come at the cost of historical accuracy.

the joy of browsing

visa's voltaic verses ⚡️ • 14 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Lifestyle Media Personal Growth
  1. Browsing bookstores can lead to unexpected discoveries and joy. It's exciting to find interesting books that you weren't specifically looking for.
  2. Book browsing is not just about buying books; it's also a social activity. Sharing this experience with friends can help deepen connections.
  3. Understanding the variety of genres and reader preferences in bookstores highlights the diverse interests people have. Everyone has their unique tastes when it comes to reading.

War Crimes

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 19 implied HN points • 15 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture History Art Literature Violence Ancient
  1. The epic of the Iliad explores the limits of violence, with scenes like advocating for infanticide and portraying extreme brutality during war.
  2. The depiction of violence in ancient Greek art, like the Mykonos Vase, reflects the harsh realities of warfare and societal practices of that time.
  3. The breakdown of social conventions in the Iliad leads to brutal, dehumanizing violence, showcasing how individual actions can disrupt norms and unleash chaos.
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Can Australia Get Any Dumber?

Cosy Moments • 36 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Education Multiculturalism Arts Humanities Language
  1. Australia's universities are cutting language and humanities courses for financial reasons. This makes it harder for students to learn about different cultures.
  2. The Vice-Chancellor's past actions at other universities show a trend of prioritizing profit over education in languages and humanities. This raises concerns about the future of cultural diversity in academia.
  3. Celebrating cultural diversity while cutting language courses is hypocritical. This inconsistency highlights a broader issue of ignoring the value of diverse cultural and artistic expressions.

Poll Worker or Poll Dancer

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 15 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Art Music Cinema Social Issues Food
  1. Bill Gates faced a lot of anger from voters, but he stayed strong during tough times. His decision not to run for reelection shows how much the past elections affected him.
  2. A former poll worker shared her story of stepping up to help after Hurricane Sandy. She felt that young people are needed to improve the voting system in New York.
  3. Little Richard's influence on rock and roll was huge, even if he didn't get much credit. Many famous musicians looked up to him and acknowledged how he shaped their music.

The World is a Morality Play

From the New World • 26 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Anime Philosophy Gender Studies Media Critique
  1. The anime Madoka Magica shows how personal desires can lead to tragic outcomes. If characters aren't careful about what they wish for, they can end up worse off.
  2. Kyubey, the magical cat, uses the emotions and struggles of magical girls as energy to keep the universe alive. This creates a cycle of suffering that drives the story.
  3. Homura is a character who learns to understand her true desires, challenging the idea of sacrificing for others. She ultimately transcends typical morality by getting the power she wants and fighting against the system.

Big City (Everybody I Know Can Be Found Here)

Kneeling Bus • 146 implied HN points • 02 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Social media Fame Urban life Aesthetics Digital Nomads
  1. In the age of social media, everyone has the potential for some level of fame, even if it's just to a small group of people.
  2. Social media platforms encourage constant engagement by transforming real estate in people's minds into smaller, more frequent units.
  3. Attention on social media is securitized to keep content flowing, blurring the lines between creators and consumers.

Are Paintings of Birth Pornographic? Facebook A.I. Thinks So, and Why that's a Problem

Humanities in Revolt • 79 implied HN points • 11 May 22
🎭️ Culture Art Social Issues
  1. Popular cultural representations often portray childbirth as a passive event happening to women, rather than showcasing their agency in giving birth.
  2. Facebook's AI flagged images of childbirth as 'adult content', showing a lack of nuanced understanding between exploitative nudity and natural imagery.
  3. Art, like Amanda Greavette's paintings of childbirth, plays a crucial role in highlighting the true essence of maternal agency and human existence, inspiring deeper understanding and appreciation.

Welcome to DOC NYC

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 13 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Film Environment Indigenous rights Community Tradition
  1. Attending film festivals can provide inspiration for new projects, especially when you see how different filmmakers tackle similar issues like climate change and culture.
  2. Protecting indigenous cultures and ways of life is crucial, as modern influences can threaten their traditions and connection to the land.
  3. Wealth is often measured by generosity and community support rather than money, highlighting the importance of sharing and helping one another.

Give me a "busy mode" or give me death

The Rectangle • 28 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Video Games Entertainment Art Lifestyle Media
  1. Many gamers wish for a 'busy mode' in games that allows them to focus on the main story without all the extra side quests. It would save time and make gaming more enjoyable for those with busy lives.
  2. As people get older, they may find it harder to fully commit to long gaming sessions. Shorter, story-driven experiences could be more appealing and realistic for adult gamers.
  3. There are concerns about how a 'busy mode' might affect the gaming experience, but the idea is to make gaming more accessible and fun without losing the essence of the game.

Inspiration potluck

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 12 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Adventure Community Inspiration Personal Growth Storytelling
  1. People can accomplish amazing feats, like climbing all 100 peaks in a summer while biking between them. It shows that with determination, anyone can do extraordinary things.
  2. When planning your own adventure, having clear and original parameters can help. Talking to others can inspire new ideas and approaches.
  3. It's important to speak out about tough experiences, even in places you're connected to. Sharing stories can help bring attention to issues and inspire others to be brave.

VFYW: Legends Abound

The Weekly Dish • 26 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art History Travel Food Literature
  1. The VFYW contest features a variety of fun and creative themes, showcasing unique views from windows around the world. It's a great way to spark creativity and engage with a community of puzzle lovers.
  2. Participants share stories and memories tied to their window views, turning the contest into a shared experience. This personal touch adds depth to the entries and makes the contest more enjoyable.
  3. The guessing process for the locations can be challenging but also intriguing. Many people enjoy the detective work involved in figuring out the right answer by analyzing clues from the photos.

The Occult Technology of the Rollercoaster

Happy Hauntology • 1 HN point • 06 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Art Rituals Entertainment Mythology Traditions
  1. Rollercoasters are unique machines that don't serve a practical purpose, unlike typical machines that make goods or transport people. They provide thrilling experiences instead, which some believe reflects magical rituals.
  2. The Wicker Man rollercoaster at Alton Towers is designed to feel like a rite of passage for kids. It mixes fear with excitement, symbolically helping children transition into teenagers by confronting their fears.
  3. Newer rollercoasters, like The Ride to Happiness in Belgium, focus less on fear and more on joy and freedom, offering a different kind of magical experience that emphasizes fun and personal liberation.

TikTok, You Do Stop

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 80 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Social media Entertainment
  1. The author questions the need for TikTok to exist in its current form and suggests banning it due to negative impacts on society, particularly the younger generation.
  2. There's a generational divide in attitudes towards social media, with the author expressing nostalgia for pre-internet times and advocating for activities that engage with the physical world.
  3. The post highlights concerns about the dumbing down effect of social media, pointing out the potential dangers of excessive screen time and the need for a reevaluation of societal priorities.

another newsletter? in this economy?

an email from eugene • 59 implied HN points • 10 Aug 22
🎭️ Culture Tech Books TV shows Social media Conversation
  1. People are craving more control over what they see on social media; they want a way to subscribe to content they care about and interact meaningfully.
  2. Maintaining a personal website is seen as a work in progress rather than a polished final product; it's like tending to an 'online garden' to shape identity and share thoughts.
  3. Encouraging dialogue and conversation through newsletters is important; it's about sparking interactions and meaningful exchanges rather than passive engagement.

Give Stephen Glass a Break

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 78 implied HN points • 14 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Theater Journalism Redemption Scandal
  1. The story of Stephen Glass, a journalist involved in a major scandal, continues to be retold in different forms over the years.
  2. Despite his past mistakes, Stephen Glass has led a life focused on redemption, showing dedication to ethical work and helping others.
  3. Society may struggle to grant second chances, despite the potential for growth and positive change by individuals like Stephen Glass.

The AI Pork Prism

Reactionary Feminist • 15 implied HN points • 24 May 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy Art Literature History Society
  1. There is a real difference between things that have an inherent form and those that are artificially made. This difference can impact how we perceive the value of things.
  2. The term 'slop' describes things that seem formless or lacking structure, which can apply to everything from food to internet content. This reflects a deeper concern about what is natural versus what is unnatural.
  3. The ongoing debate about nature and culture often misses the point of whether things really have an intrinsic nature at all. This discussion has significant implications for how we view technology and our world.

Maybe we're already too far gone

Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends • 159 implied HN points • 26 Mar 21
🎭️ Culture Media Social media Art Entertainment Internet
  1. The culture of likes and reactions on social media platforms may be contributing to outrage and polarization, and possibly removing likes altogether could be a solution.
  2. The NFT craze in art raises questions about benefiting artists versus making cryptocurrency holders richer, showcasing a shift in ownership dynamics.
  3. The consequences of online shopping and the rise of music streaming services are being explored through topics like cargo loss and ownership models.

A Hitchmas Video Gift For All

Critical Mass • 32 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy Events Celebrations Media Atheism
  1. An event was held to honor Christopher Hitchens on the anniversary of his death, featuring notable panelists like Stephen Fry and Richard Dawkins.
  2. The event was well-organized and recorded, making it possible for more people to experience the discussions and memories shared about Hitchens.
  3. A video of the event is available for everyone to watch for free as a holiday gift, along with audio versions on various platforms.

American Upanishad

Covidian Æsthetics • 28 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Art Literature Philosophy Television
  1. David Lynch's work is seen as a deep reflection on life and existence, similar to ancient philosophical texts. His storytelling encourages us to look beyond the surface and embrace ambiguity.
  2. The themes of good and evil in Lynch's projects suggest that they are intertwined and originate from the same reality. Understanding their relationship can change how we perceive our own experiences.
  3. The character dynamics, especially in 'Twin Peaks,' reveal complex emotional and metaphysical struggles, showing how personal trauma can affect broader narratives of family and destiny.

An Autumn Roundup (Fall 2023)

polymathematics • 19 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Podcasts Reading Projects Personal updates Recommendations
  1. There's a great selection of podcasts to explore, including ones on creativity, writing, and urban development. These could spark new ideas or inspire your own projects.
  2. Some fascinating reading recommendations dive into the worlds of notable authors and cultural critiques. They offer interesting insights into writing and creativity.
  3. A personal update shares work on a new web app called Printernet, aimed at making printing and saving online content easier. It sounds like a useful tool for anyone who loves reading and sharing.

Cultural Preservation in the Digital Age

The Digital Anthropologist • 19 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Cultural Diversity Digital Preservation
  1. Advances in internet and transportation technologies have brought humanity closer but pose a threat to cultural diversity that needs protection in the Digital Age.
  2. Despite the risk of cultures being diluted or absorbed into dominant ones, there is hope that interconnectivity through digital tools can actually help preserve cultural diversity.
  3. Efforts like creating digital archives, preserving real-world artifacts as digital twins, and initiatives by organizations like the Institute for Digital Archeology and the UN Charter are crucial in safeguarding cultural heritage in the digital era.

Open Thread #28

Fisted by Foucault • 82 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Essays Art
  1. The author is experiencing difficulty concentrating due to a pinched nerve in their left hip, causing delays in posting new content. They ask for patience from their readers as they deal with this issue.
  2. The post provides a list of recommended readings on various topics, including essays, chilling transcripts, and discussions on art, inviting readers to explore these materials during the wait for new content.
  3. The author mentions doing stretching exercises to cope with the pinched nerve issue, highlighting the importance of self-care and physical therapy for such health concerns.

Under the microscope: Actua Golf & Virtual Golf

Rings of Saturn • 29 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Gaming History Technology Entertainment Sports
  1. The game 'Actua Golf' has some secret cheat codes that can change the game experience, like showing the names of the game creators.
  2. There was a plan for a follow-up disc with more golf courses for 'Actua Golf', but it never officially released.
  3. In 'Virtual Golf', players can use scrambled player names as passwords to unlock professional tournaments, making it more accessible for everyone.

The last supper

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 04 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Social life Workplace dynamics Personal Growth Relationships
  1. It's okay to have mixed feelings about work and life changes. Sometimes you want to adventure, and other times you just want stability, like getting another job.
  2. Team meals can be really important for bonding and closure. They help people connect, reflect, and share feelings, especially when saying goodbye.
  3. Feeling lost or uncertain at work is normal. Learning from experiences like performance reviews can help you find your way and improve in the future.

Perhaps You Should Quit Your High-Paying, Stressful Job

antoniomelonio • 77 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Society Philosophy Work Happiness
  1. Consider reevaluating the pursuit of high-paying, stressful jobs and reflect on what truly brings happiness.
  2. Question the societal emphasis on material wealth and the concept of 'conspicuous consumption' as measures of success.
  3. Examine the value of work that contributes meaningfully to society, prioritize personal well-being over societal expectations, and explore simpler ways of living for greater happiness.

Watch out for snakes

Internal exile • 24 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media Entertainment Humor Television Social Commentary
  1. _Mystery Science Theater 3000_ shows how hard it is to make entertainment and how we often work hard to be entertained. It highlights the struggle of connecting with media while feeling isolated.
  2. While _MST3K_ creates a sense of audience community, it does so by presenting the viewer as an elite critic, which can feel misleading and isolating. It’s like enjoying something ironically rather than being part of the actual story.
  3. _Gogglebox_ offers a different vibe by showing regular people watching TV together, making fun of it in a relatable way. It portrays shared experiences and light-hearted skepticism, focusing on connection rather than competition for attention.

VFYW: A Caffeine Temptation

The Weekly Dish • 35 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Nature Food Travel Art Community
  1. The current contest theme encourages participants to explore unique and beautiful locations, promoting creativity and the joy of discovery.
  2. Many participants share their personal stories and experiences related to the contest, creating a community feel among players.
  3. The guessing game aspect is fun, with hints and clues leading to various locations, especially in the Western US where Sinclair gas stations are prominent.

Box #2

What Is Called Thinking? • 34 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Philosophy Media Mythology Art
  1. Jordan Peterson argues against subjectivism, discussing deep questions about God and meaning. He believes that simply seeing God as an idol can limit our understanding.
  2. The debate about the existence of mythological creatures, like dragons, raises important questions about our rationality. It suggests that how we view myths reflects our understanding of reality.
  3. Finding and sharing timeless, freeing ideas is essential for a good life. We should strive to help others discover what is truly lasting and liberating.

Why women enforce the “must want sex all the time” masculinity norm

Sex and the State • 29 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Gender norms Sexuality Sociology Feminism Masculinity
  1. Women play a role in supporting the idea that men should always want sex. This belief can put pressure on both genders.
  2. The expectation for men to be sexually driven can lead to feelings of inadequacy if they don't meet these standards. It can affect their confidence and relationships.
  3. Challenging these norms could free both men and women to express their true desires without societal pressure. This could lead to healthier relationships and personal happiness.

Joshua Citarella: How to Plant a Meme

Do Not Research • 79 implied HN points • 10 Apr 22
🎭️ Culture Memes Influencer Online Communities Political Messaging Social influence
  1. Influencing online communities through memes requires patience and a strategic approach of gradually building trust and introducing new ideas over time
  2. Effective memetic influence involves embedding oneself in the target community, understanding their codes and gradually steering conversations towards desired topics
  3. Building a reference chain and using tactics like faux reposts, four panels, book covers, and link peppering are strategic ways to introduce and reinforce ideas within online groups

Grab bag.

The Uncertainty Mindset (soon to become tbd) • 59 implied HN points • 13 Dec 22
🎭️ Culture Philosophy Literature Art Innovation Education Communication
  1. It's important to develop skills to handle uncertainty because the world is becoming more unpredictable. A tool called 'idk' can help with this.
  2. There's a difference between risk and uncertainty that people often mix up. Understanding this can help us make better decisions in uncertain situations.
  3. Innovation and effective goal-setting require clear thinking about trade-offs. By acknowledging trade-offs, teams can be more adaptable and strategic.

Pain and reflection

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 01 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Personal Reflection Mental health Social Dynamics Emotional Expression
  1. The writer feels less motivated about work now compared to when they were focused and dedicated, realizing that lack of energy leads to mistakes. They recognize the importance of effort and commitment to being successful.
  2. Having a supportive friend made a big difference in their work experience. Quick approvals from this friend on code reviews boosted their confidence and helped them publish their work more easily.
  3. Planning ahead helped clarify tasks and improve productivity. When they took time to outline their goals, it became easier to manage the project and communicate its importance to others.

Urban Scavenger Hunt

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 119 implied HN points • 06 Jan 22
🎭️ Culture Urban Exploration Local history Community Engagement Natural History Art Appreciation
  1. Urban scavenger hunts can help you discover unique items in your neighborhood. Look out for fossils in old buildings and carved animals on facades.
  2. Take note of remnants of the past like hitching posts and ghost signs. These tell stories about the history of the area and how it has changed over time.
  3. Pay attention to local plants and geology as you explore. You might find native trees, interesting lichen, or clues about old water features that still exist beneath the city.