The hottest Culture Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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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.

How We Decide Where To Build Our Lives

Culture Study • 4437 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Community Living Society Identity Mobility
  1. People often seek ideal living places that balance many factors, but what really matters is how close you are to people you already know. It's about community, not just a checklist of features.
  2. Building a community takes time and effort, so living in a place that helps you connect with others is essential. This could mean less pressure from work or parenting demands.
  3. When discussing places to live, it's important to share personal experiences and keep an open mind. Everyone's needs are different, and what works for one person might not work for another.

The Loneliest Decades of Our Lives

Culture Study • 4988 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Friendship Community Loneliness Social Trends Aging
  1. Many people experience a drop in friendships during their late 20s to 40s. This period can feel lonely as work and family take up most of our time.
  2. Older adults tend to have more close friends, possibly because they have more time to socialize and engage in community activities. They often bring a practiced understanding of building and maintaining friendships.
  3. Prioritizing friendships can be tough in today's busy world. It's important to recognize this struggle and find ways to make time for friends and community, even amidst life's other demands.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 41

Why is this interesting? • 120 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Arts Media Food Sports Lifestyle
  1. The Murdoch family's succession drama is really complex, with tons of legal details coming to light. It shows how family dynamics can get messy when money and power are involved.
  2. There's a subreddit called 'Dad For A Minute' where people can seek advice even if they don't have a father figure in their lives. It's a touching space for those looking for support.
  3. Many people are debating whether the NBA is making a mistake by focusing so much on three-point shots. It's an interesting discussion about how the game is changing.

Here Come the Allodidacts

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 1451 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Reading Education Philosophy Community Literature
  1. Reading can be lonely, but sharing the experience with others makes it richer and more meaningful. It opens up opportunities for deep conversations and connections.
  2. Deep reading focuses on truly engaging with texts, often through discussions and activities that enhance understanding. It's not just about reading a lot, but about understanding and connecting with what you're reading.
  3. Creating spaces for people to read together can revitalize the love for reading and learning. These environments help break away from distractions and allow for serious contemplation and growth.
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Underrated ways to change the world

Experimental History • 67383 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Social Change Community Building Cultural influence Altruism
  1. You don't have to be super rich or super selfless to help the world. Sometimes just being brave and encouraging others can make a big difference.
  2. Building a community and working together is essential. You can accomplish more and create positive change when you have friends by your side.
  3. Getting the right information to the right person is key. Think of yourself as a switchboard, connecting people and ideas to help everyone succeed.

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.

After Liberal Cultural Hegemony

Freddie deBoer • 10365 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Liberalism Censorship Art Critique American Politics
  1. Many people got really upset about certain books in the past, often without reading them, which made it hard for authors. This created a strange situation where publishers would listen to loud complaints instead of just letting books be published.
  2. Right now, there's a bit of a backlash against that intense focus on social justice, but the effects of that period are still lingering in society. Some people are still trying to cancel things they don’t like, and that behavior continues in various forms.
  3. The way liberals approach politics often revolves around judgment and pointing out failures, which some see as limiting. There’s a question of what kind of politics will emerge in the future and if it will be different from how things have been.

Dreaming About Going Back to the Land? I Did It.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 9993 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Nature Personal Growth Education Food
  1. Living on a farm brings a deep understanding of nature's realities. It's a reminder that not everything can be controlled, like waiting for hens to lay eggs.
  2. The transition from city life to a rural lifestyle can be challenging and unexpected. It often requires tough decisions, like dealing with the life and death of animals.
  3. Nature teaches valuable life lessons that many people might overlook in a digital age. Embracing these lessons can lead to personal growth and a reevaluation of what really matters in life.

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 Social Media Sea Change

Culture Study • 13388 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social media Technology Use Digital Life Cultural Shifts Personal Reflection
  1. Social media is losing its value for many people. As it becomes less useful, people are realizing they can spend their time in better ways.
  2. Feeling bored isn't necessarily a bad thing; it can lead to real life experiences and personal growth. When we stop distracting ourselves, we can manage time better and feel more in control.
  3. Our privacy is important and valuable. Enjoying moments without sharing them online can make experiences more meaningful and fulfilling.

Low Stakes Thread: Parasocial Pet Relationships

Culture Study • 1513 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Relationships Pets Social media Lifestyle Community
  1. People can have strong feelings for pets or animals they see regularly, even if they don't own them. It's nice to name them and feel connected to them, like calling a horse you see often by a special name.
  2. These relationships with animals can bring joy and comfort without much risk or commitment. They can make our daily routines feel more special and personal.
  3. Parasocial pet relationships highlight how we can connect emotionally with animals, just like we do with people, even if it's from a distance. It's a fun way to share experiences and stories about our furry friends.

Box # 8

What Is Called Thinking? • 13 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Education Literature Philosophy Politics Technology
  1. Confidence in higher education has dropped a lot in recent years. Many people worry that colleges are too liberal and not preparing students for real jobs.
  2. Workplace politics are a big part of any job. Depending on the company, you might spend anywhere from 25% to 50% of your time dealing with office politics.
  3. Dostoevsky is gaining popularity on social media, showing a shift in what people are interested in today. It seems like deeper themes are resonating with a lot of people.

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.

Lonely Charts Personals ... or Chartbook 352, the Valentine's edition.

Chartbook • 414 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Relationships Media Social Commentary
  1. People shared personal ads looking for romantic or meaningful connections, often with quirky and creative descriptions. It's a fun way to meet others who share similar interests.
  2. The ads covered a wide range of backgrounds and preferences, from academic and professional interests to unique hobbies and personal values. This shows the diversity of experiences people are looking for in relationships.
  3. There is a light-hearted, humorous tone throughout the personal ads, making it clear that many are just looking to have fun and enjoy the process of connecting with others.

Literary culture can't just dismiss AI.

The Common Reader • 3402 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Media Innovation Technology
  1. AI is changing how we think about literature and culture. It's important to embrace this change rather than ignore it.
  2. Modern literature needs to engage with new technologies to stay relevant. Just like past innovations, AI can be a tool for creativity instead of a replacement.
  3. Writers should adapt to the evolving cultural landscape. Accepting AI as part of the literary world can help create a richer and more diverse artistic expression.

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 Bootleg Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1870 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Fashion Merchandise Trends
  1. Bootlegging is now a normal part of the creative world, and it can even help brands grow. Artists and brands are beginning to embrace it as a form of new creativity rather than just a negative copy.
  2. Merchandise and bootleg items have become intertwined, with vintage pieces proving the value of new merchandise. This cycle helps brands to continue creating and offering new products to fans.
  3. Bootlegging often feels more genuine than mass-produced items. Unique, hand-made bootleg items can show a deeper connection and personal touch that many modern products lack.

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 659 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media Lifestyle Consumption Parenting Observations
  1. Democratic officials misrepresented the economy, causing confusion among voters. It's important to get the facts right so people can understand what's really happening.
  2. The writer mentions a personal struggle with family illnesses, showing how common it is for sickness to spread in households. It's a reminder that health can change quickly.
  3. The author shares a mix of articles and perspectives they consumed, emphasizing the value of staying informed through different sources. Reading widely can help us understand various viewpoints better.

She posted 25 TikToks on her wedding day

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 3194 implied HN points • 27 May 25
🎭️ Culture Social media Entertainment Marriage Influencer Culture
  1. Posting on social media during special events is becoming more common, like sharing TikToks during weddings. It shows how people want to capture and share their experiences instantly.
  2. Many businesses are emerging that cater to social media trends, including apps and services that help users create content. This highlights the shift in how we engage with technology and events.
  3. There's a growing trend of influencers and content creators blending personal life with their online presence. It reflects a cultural change where private moments become public content for entertainment.

Calling the Lonely Charts Club!

Chartbook • 801 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Arts Literature Relationships Society Politics
  1. There's a fun initiative where people can create personal ads looking for partners who share similar interests, especially in political economy and culture.
  2. The project encourages creativity in writing these ads, making them unique and tailored to individual preferences.
  3. People can submit their ads anonymously through a Google form, making it easier to express themselves.

My Lucky Scars

The American Peasant • 1956 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Personal Stories Memoirs Life lessons Craftsmanship Anecdotes
  1. Scars can remind us of important lessons and experiences. They serve as a reminder to be careful and think twice before acting.
  2. Old tools can hold special significance, especially if they have a story behind them. Restoring a beloved tool can bring back fond memories.
  3. Life has cycles, just like repairing and using old tools. It's a reminder to cherish what matters and stay focused on what's important.

Suzy Weiss: Comedians Should Not Be Hot

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 760 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Comedy Fashion Trends Media Entertainment
  1. Comedians are often expected to be funny and not overly fashionable. This idea suggests that dressing too well can take away from their comedic persona.
  2. There is a concern that some comedians are focusing more on their appearance rather than their humor. Being stylish might not mix well with the rawness expected in comedy.
  3. The conversation reflects broader societal expectations on how different professions, like comedy, are perceived in terms of looks versus talent. It hints at a belief that authenticity in comedy is key.

All Men Want to Be Heroes

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1316 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Society Identity Narratives Traditions Masculinity
  1. Men often seek opportunities to feel heroic and valued in society. It's important for communities to create situations where they can step up and make a difference.
  2. Experiences shared around communal spaces, like bars, highlight the desire for connection and action among men. These moments can lead to camaraderie and support among peers.
  3. Society's perception of masculinity can impact how men express their emotions and take action. Allowing them space to be heroes can lead to healthier relationships and communities.

Mainstream Is Now Fringe, and Fringe Is Mainstream

The Honest Broker • 30220 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media Influence Entertainment Streaming Journalism
  1. The gap between mainstream media and fringe content is closing. People now watch popular streamers and influencers way more than traditional news outlets.
  2. Legacy media companies are struggling and may not survive unless billionaires buy them. Many journalists might find it tough to work in this environment.
  3. The rise of alternative media is changing the game for all creative industries. In the future, small teams or solo creators might take on major companies in music, movies, and games.

relationship puzzles

bookbear express • 423 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Relationships Communication Self-help Personal Growth Emotional Intelligence
  1. Love can be found in imperfect partners, and it's okay for no one to meet all your needs. Relationships can look different for everyone, and being descriptive rather than judgmental can help you support your friends better.
  2. Feelings can change quickly, and it's important to give yourself grace when you're feeling vulnerable or anxious. Instead of overthinking, try acknowledging your emotions and give yourself some time to process them.
  3. Communicating directly about how someone makes you feel can help ease your anxiety. It's okay to express your needs and concerns in relationships, as everyone can feel clingy or needy sometimes.

In 2025, Your Boss Will Launch a Podcast

The Honest Broker • 21776 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media Art Entertainment Trends Influence
  1. In 2025, many companies will start their own podcasts, using them to promote themselves like infomercials. So get ready for your boss to ask you to help with that.
  2. The way businesses connect with clients is changing; some are now using podcasts as a sneaky way to hold meetings. It seems to work because people are curious when asked to join a podcast.
  3. Media companies that once tried to compete with independent platforms like Substack are now copying their model. This shows a huge shift in how content is being delivered and consumed.

The Oversimplification of Ta-Nehisi Coates

Glenn Loury • 1329 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Debate Humanities Writing Identity
  1. Ta-Nehisi Coates' writing explores deep human experiences and how our backgrounds shape us. This shows that our nurturing environments impact our moral choices and understanding of suffering.
  2. There's a need to examine different perspectives on sensitive topics like the Israel-Palestine conflict. Understanding these viewpoints helps us grasp the complexity of people's actions and beliefs.
  3. Coates emphasizes the importance of recognizing human connections and the struggle against dehumanization, yet some critics feel he oversimplifies complex issues, making it harder to have deeper discussions.

Just do your dance already

Experimental History • 3868 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music History Literature Dance
  1. It's common to get stuck trying to give detailed responses to questions. This can lead to wasting too much time on one email.
  2. Finding balance in communication is important to stay productive. Spending all day on one task can keep you from accomplishing other things.
  3. Prioritizing efficiency in response can help manage time better. Instead of focusing on a perfect answer, aim for getting back to others more quickly.

Get Rich in Your Parent's Basement

The Honest Broker • 13464 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Entertainment Music Creativity Technology
  1. The media and entertainment industry is changing. Indie creators are making more money now, thanks to platforms like YouTube that pay them fairly.
  2. Streaming services like Netflix are struggling because they're trying to cater to viewers with less attention. Making content for casual watching can backfire and lose loyalty from audiences.
  3. Big tech companies are starting to mimic each other. For example, Microsoft is pretending to be like Google instead of standing out on its own, showing a lack of true innovation.

Photos From New York City's Halloween Dog Parade

In the Flash • 1378 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Events Photography Pets Community Tradition
  1. The Tompkins Halloween Dog Parade has been a fun event for 34 years, bringing together pet owners and dog lovers to show off their furry friends in costumes.
  2. Taking photos of the parade can be challenging because cute dogs often lead to predictable pictures, so it's important to think creatively about how to capture interesting shots.
  3. Photographing from a dog's perspective can create unique images, helping to show the event from a different angle and vibe.

The Stars in Our Phones

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 466 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Astrology Technology Youth Trends Psychology Social media
  1. Astrology is becoming popular again, especially among younger people who use apps for horoscopes. They find it interesting and fun, and it gives them a sense of connection in today's tech-driven world.
  2. Historically, many famous leaders, like Ronald Reagan, have turned to astrology for guidance. This shows that astrology has always held a place in society, despite its ups and downs in popularity.
  3. The market for astrology-related products is growing rapidly. It's expected to double by 2031, indicating a significant rise in interest and belief in astrology as a tool for understanding life.

Tuesday Thread: The Best Corners of Reddit

Culture Study • 1833 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Internet Community Society Social media Trends
  1. Reddit has many unique and specific communities that allow for thoughtful sharing and discussions. You can find advice and feedback that suits your interests.
  2. While Reddit is not perfect and can have its issues, it generally has good moderation that helps keep conversations on track.
  3. The dedication of many Reddit users often leads to valuable interactions and support within the platform's various subreddits.

What's Happening at Natal-Con 2025

Bet On It • 85 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Conferences Philosophy Societal Trends
  1. Natal-Con 2025 is happening in Austin, featuring many speakers who support having more children. It's a great chance to engage with influential thinkers on this topic.
  2. The cost to attend is high, but it allows for personal interaction with the speakers. This can lead to valuable discussions and connections.
  3. Low birthrates are seen as a lost chance for both economic growth and the richness of life. More births could lead to a more meaningful existence for many people.

Oscar the Grouch

Gideon's Substack • 7 implied HN points • 02 Mar 25
🎭️ Culture Film Criticism Entertainment Events Awards
  1. Oscar movies often don't match personal taste, despite their prestige. It's interesting how we expect serious films to be good but sometimes they aren't.
  2. Some films gain Oscar nominations for political reasons rather than quality, and this can lead to unexpected viewer reactions.
  3. The film industry is changing, with fewer mid-budget, serious films being made, which affects what audiences are excited to see. Maybe it's time to wish for better films that speak to a wider audience.

Les privilèges c’est tout ce que tu peux oublier

L'Atelier Galita • 199 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Privilege Identity Racism Gender Social justice
  1. Privilege can mean having the choice to think about certain aspects of your identity, while others may not have that luxury.
  2. Some people may feel their race or gender all the time, while others may not think about their own privilege until it affects them directly.
  3. Not recognizing one's privilege can influence everyday experiences, such as feeling safe in public spaces or being treated differently in shops.

Love Grows

The Map is Mostly Water • 1643 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Relationships Art Media Philosophy Self-development
  1. Love isn't just something that happens to you; it's something you actively work on. Like tending a garden, you have to put in effort to help love grow.
  2. Many people have a casual attitude about love, thinking it will just appear by chance. This mindset can lead to a sense of helplessness in relationships.
  3. Introspection is important, but it needs to be paired with action. If you want love in your life, you have to take initiative and make choices to nurture it.

The Free Press in Love

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1136 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Romance Relationships Personal Stories Narratives
  1. Love can be found in the most unexpected places, like rooftops and newsrooms. It's about recognizing those moments wherever they happen.
  2. Childhood crushes can leave a lasting impression. Even years later, we remember the special feelings we had for that one person.
  3. Jealousy can be a real emotion, especially for kids. It shows how much we care about those we like, even if we don't express it openly.