The hottest Culture Substack posts right now

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Grandiose Narcissism, Stamina, Claremont McKenna College

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 890 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Psychology Education Social Issues Personal Growth Literature
  1. Praising kids too much can actually lead to grandiose narcissism instead of healthy self-esteem. It's better to encourage them to develop confidence in a balanced way.
  2. Many young men are not working and rely on government help. Increased screen time, especially from video games and porn, is a big part of why they're working less.
  3. Surprisingly, getting intimate with a regulated sex worker in Nevada may be safer from STIs than being with an average young woman in San Antonio.

Things Worth Remembering: ‘Endurance Comes Only from Enduring’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1270 implied HN points • 29 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art History Philosophy Poetry
  1. Czesław Miłosz was a famous Polish poet who moved to California, finding both beauty and alienation in his new home. His letters show how he felt amazed and conflicted about the landscape and culture around him.
  2. He lived in California longer than he did anywhere else, making it a special and significant place in his life. It became a refuge for him after experiencing two world wars and the Holocaust.
  3. Miłosz was recognized for his bravery during the Holocaust, as he helped save Jewish lives. This history deeply influenced his poetry and life as a whole.

The 29 "Best" (?) Movies of the 21st Century

Read Max • 2739 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Film Criticism Art Media Entertainment
  1. Lists of great movies can be very different depending on personal taste. Some people choose popular films everyone knows, while others pick lesser-known gems.
  2. Counter-consensus opinions in film criticism are valuable because they challenge the common views and spark interesting conversations. It's good to mix popular choices with surprising or personal favorites.
  3. Creating a movie list can be a fun way to reflect your unique style and feelings about films. It can show how quirky or serious your tastes are.

Beauty Is Stone Cold in the Arts, but Hot as a Consumer Product

The Honest Broker • 17288 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Aesthetics Consumerism Art Beauty Philosophy
  1. Beauty is now seen as something you can buy, rather than something deeper found in art and nature. People care more about products than artistic expression when it comes to beauty.
  2. Artists often dismiss beauty, thinking it’s just about being pretty or sentimental. They struggle to connect with the real power of beauty, which should evoke strong feelings in the audience.
  3. Despite all this, people still crave beauty and are willing to spend a lot of money on it, showing that there is a strong desire for authentic beauty in our lives.

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.
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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.

Virginity Is the Last Taboo

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1469 implied HN points • 28 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Gender Studies Human behavior Relationships Sexuality
  1. Many women feel that virginity carries a strong significance, even in a time when sexual freedom is celebrated. Their experiences and feelings about virginity can vary widely.
  2. The topic of virginity is still considered a taboo in society, creating pressure and expectations around a woman's first sexual experience.
  3. Conversations about virginity often reveal that it can be seen as both a personal experience and a social construct, influencing how women view their own sexuality.

Scream's Hidden Message: Victimhood is Deadly

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 178 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Film analysis Mental health Victimhood Philosophy
  1. The Scream movies show that people need to take responsibility for their actions. Blaming others doesn't help anyone grow or heal.
  2. Characters who see themselves as victims often end up causing harm to others, while those who empower themselves can overcome their struggles.
  3. The main character, Sidney, learns to control her life and refuses to be defined by her past traumas, showing that self-reliance leads to true strength.

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.

The 99-Year-Old Film That Stops People

Animation Obsessive • 18567 implied HN points • 19 May 25
🎭️ Culture Film Animation Art History Media
  1. A film called _The Adventures of Prince Achmed_ is really special because it's the oldest animated feature still around. Even after almost 100 years, people are still amazed by its magic and creativity.
  2. The director, Lotte Reiniger, used a unique cut-out style that made her work stand out from others. Her approach was different from American cartoons, focusing more on artistic storytelling through puppetry and silhouettes.
  3. Despite the struggles during its creation and the trouble faced by her team with the rise of the Nazis, the film gained huge popularity and helped show the power of animation even in tough times.

Hovercraft Invasion, Labubu, Tea

ChinaTalk • 296 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Film Media Technology Soft Power History
  1. China is actively trying to acquire Russian expertise in advanced military technology, especially in the area of hovercraft design, to enhance its military capabilities.
  2. Chinese media and entertainment are growing in popularity, especially among Gen Z, reflecting a cultural shift where domestic content is more favored over foreign influences.
  3. Taiwan's semiconductor industry is facing challenges due to US export controls and competition from China, leading to varied experiences across different sectors within the industry.

Creativity in an Age of AI.

The Future Does Not Fit In The Containers Of The Past • 27 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Creativity Art Innovation Media Branding Technology
  1. AI can empower creativity by allowing everyone to be more involved in the creative process. It's not just a tool; it's a partner that helps unlock new ideas.
  2. Brands need to focus on storytelling and connection rather than just data-driven promotion. Many brands are failing because they're not nurturing their long-term identity and culture.
  3. Creativity comes in two types: pure and applied. Pure creativity is about self-expression and groundbreaking ideas, while applied creativity is improving existing creations. Both are important for innovation and growth.

On Being Butthurt

The Elif Life • 3249 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Writing Privilege Identity Education Humor
  1. Keeping a notebook can help capture funny or interesting moments in life. It’s a way to notice the lighter side of things, even when life feels heavy.
  2. Feeling butthurt often comes from comparing ourselves to others and their privileges. This can lead to unnecessary resentment instead of recognizing our own journey.
  3. Writing can be a way to overcome feelings of butthurt. It allows us to connect with our past selves and remember our growth over time.

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.

Magnus Carlsen, David Deutsch and the "Fun Criterion"

SatPost by Trung Phan • 69 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy Art Entertainment Sports Education
  1. Magnus Carlsen, a top chess player, emphasizes that enjoying the game is key to his success. He believes that treating chess as a fun hobby rather than a job helps him perform better.
  2. David Deutsch's 'fun criterion' suggests that feeling enjoyment during an activity can be a powerful guide for decision-making and problem-solving. It's about aligning your conscious and unconscious ideas to find what truly matters.
  3. Choosing paths based on fun can lead to greater fulfillment and creativity. Many people, including successful figures, often overlook enjoyment in their choices, which can lead to dissatisfaction.

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.

Suzy Weiss: Admit It, Being an Adult Is Hard

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1112 implied HN points • 28 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Education Life Skills Relationships Personal Growth
  1. Many young adults feel unprepared for real life and common tasks, like cooking or handling finances. It's normal to struggle with adult responsibilities.
  2. Workshops and classes focusing on adult skills, like listening and managing relationships, are becoming popular. They help people learn what they missed out on in school.
  3. People today are facing unique challenges, like fewer kids and financial stress. Sharing experiences in community settings can provide support during tough transitions.

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.

Why Extravagant Weddings Are On The Rise At The Same Time Marital Rates Are In Decline

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 3579 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Marriage Social norms Cultural shift Commitment
  1. People are spending more on weddings to show their commitment, even though fewer couples are getting married. It seems like an expensive wedding is now seen as proof of a serious relationship.
  2. Marriage itself used to symbolize commitment. Now, because trust in marriage is changing, couples feel they need to stage extravagant weddings to prove they are serious.
  3. The rising costs of weddings can make it harder for many people to marry, especially those who need the stability of marriage the most. It creates a barrier, as not everyone can afford a big wedding.

The most famous dog on the internet

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 2209 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Internet Trends Media influence Social Dynamics Popular culture
  1. There are interesting trends on the internet, including darker topics being explored in online spaces.
  2. Social media continues to shape popular culture, including different types of influencers and their impact on communities.
  3. The influence of figures like Elon Musk can be seen in how culture and business evolve online.

Ghost Routines

slow motion multitasking • 515 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Folklore Tradition Spirituality
  1. Some people believe that ghosts are not actual souls but imprints of past routines or strong emotions. For example, if someone cried a lot in one spot, that might leave a haunting behind.
  2. The theory states that certain places and objects can 'record' these memories, similar to how a tape recorder works. This idea is great for understanding why old castles might feel extra spooky.
  3. Interesting ghost stories can include everything from haunted toys to the history of numbers like 13. Exploring ghost culture can be fun and spooky, especially during Halloween!

La phobie de l’engagement n’existe pas

L'Atelier Galita • 139 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Relationships Social norms Gender Studies Psychology Personal Development
  1. The idea of commitment phobia is often exaggerated; many people just avoid serious relationships with specific partners. It's not that they fear commitment overall, but rather with certain individuals.
  2. Men often know quickly if they want a serious relationship, but may take advantage of women's hesitation to express their desires.
  3. While a few people may genuinely have a fear of commitment, they are much less common than people think.

Leisure

Soaring Twenties • 162 implied HN points • 02 Mar 25
🎭️ Culture Leisure Arts Lifestyle Philosophy Creativity
  1. Leisure is important for a happy life. It's not just about doing nothing; it's a skill that can be learned and appreciated.
  2. Working for a living isn't the only way to find fulfillment. Many people would prefer to spend their time on hobbies and creative projects.
  3. Understanding and mastering leisure can help us slow down and enjoy life more intentionally, just like people in ancient times did.

I Hate 28 Days Later for Killing Off Supernatural Zombies

Freddie deBoer • 3743 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Film Media Literature Entertainment Critique
  1. The movie '28 Days Later' changed zombies from slow, traditional creatures to fast, scary ones. This shift makes the horror feel more immediate and intense.
  2. Most modern zombie stories now explain zombies as a result of a virus, moving away from the idea of supernatural resurrection. Many people miss the spooky appeal of classic, magic-based zombies.
  3. Fast zombie stories often focus on finding cures and dealing with infections, which can make the plot feel less about true zombie horror and more like a medical crisis. Fans of classic zombies argue that supernatural elements add depth and charm.

SITREP - 10/27/2024

THREE SEVEN MAFIA • 619 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Events Personal Stories Travel Community Holidays
  1. The recent visit to the Confederate Mound was a big success with great weather and positive vibes.
  2. The writer is dealing with rheumatoid disease, which sometimes affects their ability to work, but they appreciate everyone's understanding.
  3. There are plans to share updates and content soon after returning from a trip to Portland, including a Halloween celebration.

The Shifting State of Xiaohongshu

Off-Topic • 1012 implied HN points • 30 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Digital Media Social Networks Cultural Exchange Women's issues Consumer Culture
  1. Xiaohongshu started as a shopping guide app for Chinese travelers and has evolved into a huge social media platform focused on lifestyle content and e-commerce.
  2. The app has become popular among women, offering a supportive community where users can share experiences and advice, making it a safe space for many.
  3. Recently, many Americans flocked to Xiaohongshu looking for a TikTok alternative, leading to cultural exchanges that highlighted shared human desires despite differences.

OnlyFans billboards are taking over

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 2926 implied HN points • 31 May 25
🎭️ Culture Advertising Influencers Social media Trends
  1. OnlyFans is becoming more popular, with millions of creators joining the platform each year. This increase is leading to more billboards advertising these creators.
  2. Billboards are a smart way for OnlyFans stars to get noticed because they bypass strict online advertising rules for adult content. They can reach a wide audience without being ignored.
  3. Creators have seen big boosts in subscribers from their billboards, showing that this advertising method can really work in gaining attention and revenue.

A Portal to the Past

Animation Obsessive • 1793 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Animation History Film Media
  1. The 1980s were a special time for Shanghai Animation Film Studio, making it a leader in Chinese animation.
  2. A rare brochure was digitized to preserve and share the studio's history and artworks from 1957 to 1987.
  3. The article expresses gratitude to readers for their support and mentions excitement about an upcoming trip to a festival.

Berkeley Meetup This Wednesday

Astral Codex Ten • 2133 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Community events Meetups Social gatherings Networking
  1. There is a meetup happening in Berkeley on June 4 at 6:30 PM. It's a great chance to connect with others in the community.
  2. Anyone is welcome to join, even if you're feeling shy or don't think you fit in. It's all about meeting new people and having fun.
  3. Some special guests may attend, making it a unique opportunity to meet interesting individuals from out of town.

What “Adolescence” Gets Wrong About Incels, Crime, and Class

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 5227 implied HN points • 25 May 25
🎭️ Culture Media Analysis Social Issues
  1. Fictional shows like 'Adolescence' can give the wrong impression about real-life issues. They often present drama as if it's based on facts, which can mislead viewers.
  2. Many people think incels are mostly white extremists, but research shows they come from various backgrounds and often struggle with mental health issues. They're more about feeling hopeless than having a strong political agenda.
  3. Violent crime in teens is often linked to family situations, not just online influences. Most young offenders come from broken homes, and the reality of crime is very different from what’s often portrayed in TV shows.

Reading Homer After October 7

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2990 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Education Art History Politics
  1. Teaching classic texts like the 'Iliad' can take on new meaning when the students are soldiers. They relate deeply to the themes of war and sacrifice in the stories.
  2. Personal connections to war can be profound, as seen when students like Amir transition from studying literature to facing real-life battles.
  3. The contrast between a warrior's public role and their private life is significant. Characters like Hector highlight the dual nature of being committed to duty while also longing for family and peace.

A strange, singular, funny American tale; an extremely cool gangster flick; and more

Read Max • 658 implied HN points • 30 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Books Film Music Humor Art
  1. There's a funny and touching story that mixes passion and conflict, like something from famous authors Charles Portis and John Kennedy Toole.
  2. A new book explores language and L.L.M.s, alongside essays about A.I., labor, and changes in the literary world.
  3. There's a really cool Hong Kong gangster movie to check out, plus four great music tracks that I’ve been enjoying.

The Second Annual Blog Post Competition, Extravaganza, and Jamboree

Experimental History • 7495 implied HN points • 27 May 25
🎭️ Culture Blogging Internet Renaissance Creativity Community
  1. The internet is a big experiment we're all part of, and everyone can contribute to how it turns out. Your actions online can shape this space, so don't just sit back and watch!
  2. Blogging is like a block party where everyone is welcome. More voices can make the experience richer, so don't be afraid to jump in and share your thoughts.
  3. There's a chance for everyone to be heard on the internet. Even if you think no one will listen, your unique perspective might be just what someone else is looking for.

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.

The devil comes at night

Disaffected Newsletter • 1718 implied HN points • 28 Sep 24
🎭️ Culture Faith Fear Identity Supernatural Literature
  1. Fear can linger long after experiencing scary stories. A movie or book may heighten existing fears that you have had since childhood.
  2. Some fears, like those of the devil or ghosts, can be powerful even if you don't believe they exist. It's interesting how our minds can create beliefs that clash with our logic.
  3. Nighttime can bring out these fears, leading to feelings of dread. It's common to wonder if these fears are linked to ourselves or our past choices.

Open Thread 384

Astral Codex Ten • 1927 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Community Discussion Events Meetups Social media
  1. There is a weekly open thread where people can discuss anything and ask questions freely. It's a space for open communication.
  2. In-person meetups are happening, giving people a chance to connect with others in the community. This week, there’s a meetup in Berkeley.
  3. Some recent disagreements in discussions are being put to rest, with participants acknowledging they won't continue debating. It shows a willingness to move on and engage in new conversations.

The Rocking Out Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1085 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Tradition History Nature Craftsmanship
  1. Suiseki is the Japanese art of displaying beautiful stones that resemble mountains or landscapes. These stones encourage people to admire nature's beauty in a unique way.
  2. Setting up a suiseki display involves careful selection of stones and bases that enhance their natural shapes and features. This process is similar to bonsai, where presentation plays a key role.
  3. Unlike living plants, suiseki stones can't die, making them a low-maintenance way to enjoy art and nature in your home. They allow for contemplation of nature's beauty without the worry of upkeep.

Do good work and your fits will follow

Blackbird Spyplane • 3277 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Fashion Art Celebrity Style Identity
  1. Doing good work can enhance how people see your style. When you focus on creating and contributing positively, your overall vibe improves.
  2. People tend to admire others' fashion sense more when they appreciate their talents and achievements. Great style is often seen through the lens of the person's accomplishments.
  3. Fashion is evolving to include a wider range of styles that reflect individuality and personal expression. What was once considered 'normal' can now be stylish if presented well.

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.