The hottest Culture Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Culture Topics

The Luddite Kids saying NO to Smartphones

Break Free with Karen Hunt • 1415 implied HN points • 17 May 23
🎭️ Culture Youth Tech Media Wellness Psychology
  1. Young people are starting to reject smartphones and social media for improved mental health and real-life connections.
  2. The increasing use of technology has led to a mental health crisis among students, with many struggling to attend school.
  3. Children are influenced by social media influencers and marketing to buy things, alter their appearance, and follow trends, leading to dissatisfaction and body dysphoria.

The Profile: The self-made billionaire who never read an investment book & the age-gappers defending their relationships

The Profile • 1031 implied HN points • 31 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Profiles Interviews Media Relationships
  1. The Profile features original interviews with interesting people like self-made billionaire Anthony Geisler and age-gappers in relationships.
  2. The motto for the new year is to do one hard thing in 2024, inspired by Jesse Itzler's advice of taking on challenges for personal growth.
  3. The Profile offers insights from various personalities in interviews, sharing stories like Laura Dekker's solo sailing journey and Ron Shaich's advice on building iconic brands.

Can the philistine supremacy be stopped?

The Common Reader • 2232 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Arts Literature Education Social Issues History
  1. Schools are changing curriculums in ways that some believe exclude important classics, like Shakespeare and ancient texts. This might limit students' exposure to foundational literature.
  2. There is a push to replace traditional cultural experiences, like theater and museums, with more relatable activities for students. Critics argue that this could reduce opportunities for learning and growth.
  3. Knowledge from literature and history plays a big role in helping students from all backgrounds move up in society. It's important to ensure all students have access to enriching educational experiences.

Q & Answers

Freddie deBoer • 5352 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Ethics Identity Politics Art Mental health
  1. Engaging with opposing viewpoints can help refine ideas and perspectives.
  2. Art must uphold quality standards to effectively convey political messages.
  3. Personal apologies for past mistakes should not be incessantly repeated; it's essential to learn, make amends, and move forward.

Odds and Ends (5)

David Friedman’s Substack • 188 implied HN points • 26 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Art Media Society Design Politics
  1. Some stores, like Fry's and Wegman's, are designed as artistic experiences to attract certain types of customers. They create a special atmosphere that makes shopping feel unique and enjoyable.
  2. California has a jungle primary system where all candidates compete against each other, which can give Republican voters a bigger voice since they can influence which Democrat makes it to the general election.
  3. Official advice on things like salt consumption or saturated fats has sometimes been wrong, reminding us to be skeptical of so-called 'truths' promoted by authorities, as they may not always be backed by solid evidence.
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Becoming Noble • 1335 implied HN points • 21 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Masculinity Society Silence Privacy
  1. The modern culture of transparency threatens our psychic freedom by imposing false values affecting our speech, behavior, and mental states.
  2. Major organizations prioritize transparency over trust due to their large scale, using surveillance and control mechanisms that compromise trust in society.
  3. Cultural forces like office culture and therapy culture work to eliminate secrecy and individuality to promote openness, homogenization, and vulnerability, affecting men's natural leadership qualities.

100

Points And Figures • 852 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture History Biography Optimism War Community
  1. Relentless optimism can lead to a long and happy life, as seen in the example of a World War II veteran. Staying positive helps you enjoy life more, even during tough times.
  2. The impact you make in life is often more important than personal accomplishments, like wealth. Being generous and giving to others leaves a lasting legacy.
  3. Learning from others can shape your own outlook on life. Surrounding yourself with positive people can inspire you to be better and find joy.

1,000 Words About A One-Liner

Technohumanism • 79 implied HN points • 28 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Writing Comedy Technology AI Communication
  1. Even with new technology, old writing lessons are still important. It's key to understand the basics of humor for effective writing.
  2. Humor can be challenging, but learning from failed attempts can help improve skills. Just like understanding a joke, getting good at writing takes practice.
  3. Making connections between topics can inspire creativity. For example, thinking about whales and AI sparked a unique comedic idea.

Ride With The Mob

HIDDEN.RSRCH • 687 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture TV shows Pop culture Entertainment
  1. The Sopranos, created by David Chase and HBO, made television history 25 years ago with the iconic character Tony Soprano.
  2. The series by Chase introduced a new breed of anti-heroes and redefined the glorified image of gangsters.
  3. The world-building and character development in The Sopranos set a new standard in television storytelling.

What Tom Lehrer Left Us

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 644 implied HN points • 28 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Music Comedy History Arts Media
  1. Tom Lehrer was a fun and sharp satirical songwriter and mathematician known for his music from the 1950s.
  2. The influence of Lehrer’s music can be felt even today, despite many not growing up in musical families.
  3. Listening to Lehrer’s songs brings nostalgia and a unique blend of humor and intellect to the musical landscape.

We Are Not Amused

Unpopular Front • 179 implied HN points • 18 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Media Critique Journalism Politics Scandal Entertainment
  1. Olivia Nuzzi is a journalist who often finds herself at the center of scandals rather than focusing on real reporting. Her personal life is more known than her work.
  2. Her recent actions, including a controversial memoir and connections to notable figures, reflect a troubling trend in media that prioritizes spectacle over serious journalism.
  3. Critics argue that this kind of sensationalism harms the reputation of ethical journalists and is part of a larger issue affecting the media and society.

Life imitates comedy

Austin Kleon • 3397 implied HN points • 13 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Art Music Cinema Literature Comedy
  1. Life often reflects comedy, showing how funny situations can mirror our daily experiences.
  2. Reading multiple books at once can spark creativity, as different ideas interact and inspire new thoughts.
  3. The acceptance speeches at the Golden Globes highlighted themes of resilience and the importance of perseverance in life.

Make remotes great again

The Rectangle • 84 implied HN points • 09 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture Technology Design Lifestyle Nostalgia Consumerism Media
  1. Simple, physical remotes feel satisfying because they make actions obvious and immediate — point, press, and the thing responds.
  2. Modern smartphones and apps often hide complexity and demand attention, turning simple tasks into fiddly, opaque experiences.
  3. Dedicated, single-purpose controls would be calmer and more usable, and we’d benefit from more tangible, easy-to-understand interfaces.

Five Widows

Splattern • 59 implied HN points • 08 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Human experience Social Issues Charity Community Personal narrative
  1. Many widows are struggling to feed their children and face hardships after losing their husbands. They are often left with little income and rely on small daily sales for survival.
  2. The visits highlighted the importance of understanding individual situations before providing help. There’s a need for respect and genuine connection when discussing challenges.
  3. Directly providing food instead of money is suggested as a better way to help these families. It helps to ensure the support reaches those in need without creating additional problems.

Dune 2: A Denied Catharsis

Trantor Publishing • 559 implied HN points • 04 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment industry
  1. The movie Dune 2 is seen as a standout in modern entertainment, receiving high acclaim for being one of the 'good' movies Hollywood still makes.
  2. Dune 2 stands out for taking organized religion seriously in a way rarely seen in cinema, particularly with its Islamic aesthetic portrayal.
  3. The author expresses frustration at the lack of representation of Christian themes in movies like Dune 2, highlighting the absence of Christian prophets and examples of martial virtue in popular films.

Issue 22: Why Europe doesn’t have a Tesla

The Works in Progress Newsletter • 18 implied HN points • 19 Feb 26
🎭️ Culture Economics Public Policy Science History Urbanism Technology Health Food
  1. Rigid employment rules in many European countries make firing very costly and discourage firms from taking big, risky bets. That reduces the chance of breakthrough companies emerging, though some countries manage to balance worker protections with flexibility.
  2. Vaccine science has advanced enormously — we can now see microbes at atomic detail and build vaccines in new ways — so we’re in a golden age of vaccine development. Future breakthroughs will depend on continued investment and support.
  3. Market-style reforms in communist countries usually failed because they didn’t create quick, broad winners and threatened inflation and instability. Without reforms that build fast coalitions of beneficiaries, changes were often watered down or reversed.

How Millennials Grew Up and Got Old

Culture Study • 6861 implied HN points • 15 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Generations Identity Society Economics Challenges
  1. Millennials are experiencing a shift in societal focus as they move from being the future to the middle generation.
  2. The pandemic has impacted millennials in various ways, from financial challenges to changing perspectives on owning homes.
  3. Millennials are navigating feelings of age and exhaustion, dealing with societal issues and personal milestones.

Halloween has gone full brain rot

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 2597 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Internet culture Social media Holidays Festivals
  1. Halloween costumes are now often based on internet memes, reflecting how much online culture influences our lives. Instead of traditional costumes, many people dress as viral moments or characters from social media.
  2. The trend of meme costumes can create confusion and alienation at Halloween parties. Costumes that depend on obscure references can make it hard for people to connect and enjoy the holiday together.
  3. Despite some people wanting a return to classic costumes, meme costumes allow for more creativity and self-expression. They let us remember and reflect on our shared experiences in today's internet-driven world.

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.

#198: Trying to see something

Maybe Baby • 2172 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Relationships Art Mindfulness Self-reflection Gratitude
  1. Over time, people in relationships can notice their differences more than their similarities. It's interesting how our perceptions shift as we get to know someone deeply.
  2. Our appreciation for what we have can fade into the background. It's important to regularly take a moment to recognize and be grateful for the good things in our lives.
  3. Creating or experiencing art can help us appreciate life more fully. It reminds us of sensations we've forgotten and can open our eyes to new feelings and perspectives.

Toys vs. Nazis

Animation Obsessive • 1614 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Film Animation History War Art
  1. The film 'The Revolt of the Toys' was made in 1947 by Hermína Týrlová and became popular quickly after its release. It was a big deal for Týrlová, who had faced difficult times earlier under Nazi occupation.
  2. The story features toys that come to life and resist a Nazi officer who destroys their workshop. This theme was very relevant as it represented hope and resistance against fascism.
  3. Overall, the film was a celebration of overcoming great evil, with toys symbolizing courage and the spirit of children against oppressive forces.

Who Deserves to Live?

New Means • 1375 implied HN points • 07 May 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Activism Community Inequality Justice
  1. The killing of Jordan Neely sheds light on systemic issues like lack of care for the homeless and mentally ill, capitalism, and white supremacy.
  2. There is a growing movement of people advocating for care over violence, housing over incarceration, and support over demonization.
  3. We must fight for a world where everyone's needs are met, where compassion is given, and where we work towards a better future for all.

New dreams?

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 46 implied HN points • 29 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture Personal essays Career Ambition Creativity Identity Writing
  1. There’s a strong sense of questioning and standing at a confusing crossroads, with many zig-zagging paths and no clear next step.
  2. Career dreams shifted a lot over time—from childhood ideas like dentistry, to writing or law, to chasing big entrepreneurial goals—showing ongoing exploration.
  3. Big ambitions and others’ expectations shaped choices but often faded or didn’t pan out, prompting reflection and a need to rethink what to pursue next.

Controversy, cleavage, and societal collapse

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 570 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Society Media Pop culture Technology Fashion
  1. Controversies often aren't as serious as they seem. Many people aren't actually upset and it's more about grabbing attention online.
  2. Brands can create buzz through earned media, sometimes even by starting their own controversies to get free publicity.
  3. Social media thrives on drama and sensationalism, which can distort reality and lead to societal issues.

What Do You Wish People Were More Curious About?

Culture Study • 2282 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Curiosity Human behavior Anthropology History Community
  1. People are curious about a wide range of topics, like the history of places or specific laws that are too complex to understand at first glance. Exploring these subjects can lead to deeper insights.
  2. There are everyday experiences that often go unnoticed, like the physical toll of standing or bending all day. Recognizing and discussing these can create empathy and understanding.
  3. Curiosity can expand our knowledge and improve our connections with others. By asking questions and seeking answers, we can gain a better understanding of the world around us.

Great Movies You Might Not Have Seen, Part 4

Life Since the Baby Boom • 1844 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Art Media Literature Performing Arts
  1. There are many great movies that most people haven't seen, and they are worth checking out. These films often have unique stories and perspectives that can inspire and entertain.
  2. One movie, 'After Life,' explores what happens when you die and how people choose a significant memory to carry with them. It's both a thoughtful and fun take on life and memory.
  3. Another interesting film, 'Temple Grandin,' tells the inspiring true story of a woman with autism who revolutionized the livestock industry. It highlights her unique understanding of animals and her journey in overcoming challenges.

I made you some poems

Austin Kleon • 2318 implied HN points • 02 May 23
🎭️ Culture Art Poetry Education Creativity Inspiration
  1. Creating art can be a source of comfort and inspiration. Making blackout poems is one way to express creativity and find joy in the process.
  2. It's important for teachers and artists to keep practicing their craft. Staying engaged in making things helps them grow and inspire others.
  3. Feedback from others can motivate artists to create more. Positive comments can encourage experimentation and exploration in their artistic journey.

The Specific Catharsis of 'That Guy"

Culture Study • 7220 implied HN points • 13 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Social Commentary Gender Dynamics Internet culture
  1. The TikTok filter 'That Guy' accurately portrays a specific type of man with entitlement issues.
  2. The filter highlights the dynamics between men and women, showing how some men view women as objects to possess.
  3. The meme provides catharsis by showcasing and ridiculing behaviors of 'That Guy' and shedding light on societal roles in enabling such behavior.

Suzy Weiss: How Disney Girls Grow Up

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 853 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Pop culture Art Media Fashion Entertainment
  1. Sabrina Carpenter's new album cover sparked a lot of debate online. Some people felt it was empowering, while others thought it was degrading.
  2. There's a contrast between Carpenter's past as a Disney star and her current provocative image. This shift raises questions about how we view female artists in pop culture.
  3. The discussion about the album cover highlights broader conversations about feminism and sexuality. It shows how art can challenge traditional views and provoke strong opinions.

The Messy Thicket of Change

Culture Study • 2436 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Religion Social justice Community Politics Race relations
  1. It's important to let everyday people create their own solutions for social change, instead of just following easy steps set by others. This helps them feel more connected and invested in the process.
  2. The journey towards racial justice is messy and often includes mistakes, but the willingness to work through those challenges together is crucial for real progress.
  3. Building a supportive community where everyone feels they belong encourages deeper conversations about tough topics like racism, making it easier for people to come together and act for change.