The hottest Culture Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

An autogynephile walks into a reality check

gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen • 1031 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Gender identity Social Dynamics Mental health Self-discovery
  1. A person may experience a sudden realization about their gender identity that challenges their current life situation. This can feel like a midlife crisis as they ponder big changes.
  2. Seeking different viewpoints about these feelings can lead to confusion. It might seem like a search for answers, but often it just adds to the uncertainty.
  3. Joining supportive communities can feel comforting, but sometimes it may lead to unrealistic expectations about one's identity and create pressure rather than relief.

The Influencer Era

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 140 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media Influencers Public Discourse Opinion Entertainment
  1. Influencers have taken over discussions today. They often share quick opinions that get a lot of attention, even if those opinions are not deeply informed.
  2. People tend to prefer simple, catchy content over complex, researched information. This makes it easy to overlook true expertise in favor of what's entertaining.
  3. We should be more careful about who we listen to and take time to really think about topics. It's important to look for real knowledge instead of just popular opinions.

The opt-out revolution

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

Just Rule Everything

News from Uncibal • 795 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Environmentalism Philosophy Literature Human Rights
  1. Some environmental activists seem more focused on attacking humanity than actually solving climate problems. Their actions, like vandalizing art, show a deeper anger towards civilization itself.
  2. Pride is highlighted as a major issue, causing people to see themselves as superior and leading to resentment towards others. This mindset can eventually lead to harmful actions against humanity.
  3. There's a connection between extreme environmentalism and beliefs similar to Marxism. Both can express a desire to destroy rather than build, showing a shared discontentment with the existing world.

Fly-fishing in a business suit

Read Max • 711 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Film Music Fashion International
  1. This week features a mix of cool recommendations, including a thrilling international book and a stylish 1990s movie.
  2. There's interesting reading on sports conspiracy theories and financing in soccer, plus a new eurodance-pop album that's really enjoyable.
  3. The writer loves getting suggestions from readers for books or movies they might like, and they offer a free trial for new subscribers.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

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

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

Stop speedrunning to a dystopia

The Intrinsic Perspective • 40345 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Critique Satire Technology Society Entertainment
  1. Big tech companies are doing shady things that can harm users, like creating fake music and using bots to engage with people. This shows a troubling trend toward prioritizing profit over real human connection.
  2. Kids' shows and adult films are being dumbed down to keep viewers engaged without paying full attention. This shift is making entertainment less meaningful and more mindless.
  3. There's a lack of strong critiques about how our media consumption is changing us, and we need more artists to call out these issues. Understanding the risks of being overly entertained is important to avoid a dystopian future.

Choosing My Glasses

Holly’s Newsletter • 1428 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Personal Growth Mental health Self-Expression Life experiences
  1. Negativity bias means we often focus more on bad experiences than good ones. It's important to notice when we're doing this and try to look for the positives instead.
  2. Working on overcoming negativity bias can be tough, but it starts with accepting that we have it. Sharing good moments with others can help shift our focus to the positive.
  3. Finding supportive professionals in areas like therapy or training can make a big difference. It’s nice to meet people who understand our fears and can guide us through challenging experiences.

How the Star of 'Wicked' Just Sabotaged Her Own Movie

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 356 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Film Theater Entertainment Performing Arts Social Issues
  1. Cynthia Erivo reacted strongly to a fan's edited poster of 'Wicked', claiming it was offensive and degraded her. Many thought her response was an overreaction and not necessary.
  2. This kind of response from Hollywood actors is becoming more common. Some stars seem to let their egos get too big, which can harm their own films.
  3. There's a growing trend where people in entertainment see themselves as victims of oppression. This makes it hard to enjoy their work when they focus on perceived grievances instead of celebrating their art.

Gen Z, Social Media is Optional

After Babel • 3383 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Youth Trends Social media Mental health Communication Technology impact
  1. Gen Z has the option to live without social media. It's not a must to be connected online all the time.
  2. Choosing to step away from social media can lead to better sleep, creativity, and stronger relationships with loved ones.
  3. There are practical methods to help people quit social media, like gradually reducing use and focusing on real-life connections instead.

40 Thoughts On Turning 40 | #287

Boundless by Paul Millerd • 489 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Personal Growth Relationships Parenting
  1. Making big life changes can be really scary, but they often lead to positive outcomes. It's never too early to take risks and explore what truly makes you happy.
  2. Finding work that you love can take time, but it's worth the effort. Good work should feel fulfilling not just now, but also when you look back on it.
  3. Parenting is tough and full of surprises, but it's also incredibly rewarding. It reminds you to embrace joy, learn from your children, and focus on what's really important in life.

Criticism is the ultimate compliment

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 356 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Music Sports Writing Art Comedy Literature
  1. Criticism can be seen as positive feedback, showing that people care enough to offer their thoughts. It encourages growth and improvement.
  2. The importance of creativity is highlighted through various writing methods and the need for authentic expression in art. Hard work often makes writing look easy.
  3. The text discusses modern trends, like how people engage with social issues and popular culture, suggesting a mix of nostalgia and critique about today's lifestyles.

Hidden Open Thread 384.5

Astral Codex Ten • 275 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Philosophy Music Faith
  1. This is a post meant for paid subscribers only. It includes content that isn't accessible to everyone.
  2. The post features an open thread, allowing subscribers to engage in discussion and share their thoughts.
  3. There are visual elements like images, which may be part of the discussion or simply to enhance the post's appeal.

worldbuilding

bookbear express • 396 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Dating Relationships Personal Growth Writing Community
  1. Being a matchmaker can be very intense, mixing excitement with a lot of pressure. It's about connecting people and making a real difference in their lives.
  2. The process of matchmaking requires understanding people's personalities and emotions deeply. It can feel overwhelming, but these feelings can also be a strength in this work.
  3. Hosting events, like a Valentine's party, can be fun but also nerve-wracking. It's about creating opportunities for people to meet and connect, which feels rewarding and special.

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.

In-person event, an interview, a personal note and a political comment

Charles Eisenstein • 6 implied HN points • 03 Mar 25
🎭️ Culture Personal Growth Storytelling Community Technology impact Political Commentary
  1. Take breaks for mental and physical health. Rest is really important to recharge and enjoy life.
  2. Many people feel torn between different political views. It's valuable to understand various perspectives without choosing sides.
  3. There's a unique gathering happening at the Omega Institute focused on a new and ancient story. It blends different financial contributions to make it accessible for everyone.

My friend, JT

Basta’s Notes • 245 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Pets Relationships Mental health Lifestyle Personal Stories
  1. Having a pet can be really meaningful. They can become important parts of our lives and provide comfort through tough times.
  2. Moving pets to new homes can be challenging. It takes preparation and sometimes a little help from professionals to make the experience smoother.
  3. Pets age and it can be hard to accept. While it's sad to think about losing them, it's important to cherish every moment and the joy they bring.

First World Problems: Dating

Fake Noûs • 165 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Relationships Society Gender Mental health Lifestyle
  1. Finding a partner is a big problem for many people today. This problem is tough because of differing desires between men and women, leading to frustration and dissatisfaction.
  2. The issue of being single can lead to serious feelings of loneliness and even increase the risk of suicide among men. This need for connection is felt deeply and can have major consequences.
  3. Potential solutions to the dating problem might include technology like robot partners, or even changing how we feel through drugs or genetic engineering. These ideas could help ease the pain of being single.

My Best Premium Tweets

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 643 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🎭️ Culture Social media Opinions Trends Humor Digital Culture
  1. The author shares their best tweets that are exclusive to subscribers. These tweets include personal thoughts, observations, and opinions.
  2. Subscribers can find insights that are informal and quirky, providing a more personal touch.
  3. The collection highlights the author's unique perspective and offers a chance for readers to connect with their ideas directly.

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 1006 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Literature Art Trends Lifestyle
  1. Emotional labor is often misunderstood and used incorrectly. It's good to learn the right terms to communicate feelings clearly.
  2. Rethinking how we talk about emotions can improve our conversations. Using the right language helps express what we really feel.
  3. Being aware of our consumption, whether it's content or emotions, can lead to better understanding ourselves. Reflecting on what we take in daily can help us grow.

The Secret Lives of Hair

The Global Jigsaw • 277 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Fashion Art Health Trade Society
  1. Hair holds deep personal significance for people, symbolizing identity, shame, and beauty. From keepsakes to wigs, hair affects how we see ourselves and how others see us.
  2. The global trade of human hair is complex and often hidden, relying on economic disparities between those who sell their hair and those who buy it. Much of this trade originates from poorer regions, with many women selling their hair for financial support.
  3. Wigs and hair products go through a long journey before reaching consumers, involving multiple countries and cultures. The authentic origins of hair can be misleading, highlighting the hidden stories and market dynamics behind beauty products.

HALLOWEEN HORRORS (cont.)

THREE SEVEN MAFIA • 759 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Film Horror Arts Media Entertainment
  1. Phantasm II is a sequel that captures the essence of the 1980s horror trend. It's a fun film with great action where the characters fight against a powerful evil entity.
  2. Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer is a dark and brutal film that portrays the reality of serial murder without glamorizing it. It's a raw look at a killer's life and actions.
  3. Prince of Darkness blends horror and science fiction in a unique way. It explores deep themes while maintaining a creepy atmosphere, making it a standout John Carpenter film.

Tuesday Thread: What Games Are You Playing?

Culture Study • 1654 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Arts Entertainment Games Media Literature
  1. There's a new series where people share about their work lives and how they manage their time. It will help others learn how different professionals organize their days.
  2. The focus is on understanding how people protect their time and handle tasks like emails. This can give useful insights for managing one's own work.
  3. Participants will do their interviews using Google Docs, making it easy for everyone to share and read their experiences.

Are Men and Women Different?

Fake Noûs • 1079 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Gender Studies Psychology Evolutionary Theory Sociology Philosophy
  1. Men and women are different in many ways, especially on average, like strength and interests. It’s important to recognize these differences, but it doesn’t mean every individual fits those patterns.
  2. Some people believe these differences come from culture, but many differences are actually seen across different societies and even species. This suggests they are more than just social norms.
  3. The main reason for these differences comes from how men and women reproduce and invest in offspring. This impacts behavior, risk-taking, and interests, which helps explain why men and women often act the way they do.

18 Paying Pitch Calls & a Chance to Write About Budget Travel

The Sub Club Newsletter • 158 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Travel Writing Arts Lifestyle Entertainment
  1. Editors are looking for fresh New Year's stories and pitches, especially in January. You can share unique takes on resolutions or fun ways to celebrate the holiday.
  2. Now is a good time to pitch 'Best Of' lists for 2024. If you have creative ideas that aren't typical, editors would be interested in those topics.
  3. There are 18 new paid writing opportunities available from various publications. Writers can explore topics in travel, culture, and more for potential income.

What Are You Watching?

Culture Study • 2231 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Community Entertainment Arts Discussion
  1. People are feeling overwhelmed by negative news and events. It's tough to stay positive when everything seems so heavy and scary.
  2. Discussing feelings and finding community can help ease the weight of these emotions. Connecting with others can bring comfort during hard times.
  3. There will be an advice session focused on culture and community. Sharing experiences can be an antidote to the negativity.

In 2025, blogs will be the last bastion of the Good Internet

The Intrinsic Perspective • 34996 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Internet Blogging Art Media Literature
  1. Blogs are becoming one of the last good places on the internet. People are tired of social media and want more meaningful content.
  2. Writing blogs today is about sharing a lot of ideas often, rather than creating one perfect piece. It's about being expressive and engaging regularly.
  3. In 2025, bloggers should aim to create rich, detailed content that takes time to explore, much like appreciating a large, complex artwork.

In Defense of the Great American Sleepover

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 5420 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Childhood Parenting Social norms Education Traditions
  1. Sleepovers are an important part of childhood and can help build friendships and social skills. They create lasting memories and experiences together.
  2. Some people believe that fewer sleepovers could lead to better academic outcomes and more focus on studying. They suggest prioritizing education over social activities.
  3. Critics of eliminating sleepovers argue that balance is key. Both social experiences and academic pursuits are important for a well-rounded development.

The importance of odd friendships

Civic Renaissance with Alexandra Hudson • 319 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Friendship Philosophy Literature Civility Education
  1. Odd friendships can be beautiful and meaningful. They show us that people with different backgrounds can connect and grow together.
  2. Like the writer Hannah More, we can have friends from all walks of life. It's important to embrace those differences and find common ground.
  3. Having friends who challenge our beliefs can help us hold strong convictions while still being open-minded. This balance enriches our lives and helps us understand others better.

The War Against Indie Creators Is Now Getting Dirty

The Honest Broker • 14628 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media Impact Entertainment industry Digital Platforms
  1. Apple is taking a big chunk of money from indie creators by charging them a 30% fee on subscriptions through their app. This is making it really tough for artists and freelancers to keep making a living.
  2. Google changed its search rules, harming many indie publishers and websites while favoring larger companies. This has made it hard for these smaller sites to get noticed, leading to fewer visitors and loss of income.
  3. Podcasting is becoming super popular and important for media and politics. As traditional news outlets lose influence, more people are turning to alternative media like podcasts for information.

The Truth About Bob Dylan’s Falling Out with Pete Seeger

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 4229 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Music Film Politics History Art
  1. Bob Dylan's conflict with Pete Seeger was more about differing political views than Dylan going electric. Seeger and others were concerned about Dylan's lack of interest in their leftist politics.
  2. Dylan's career has played tricks on fans and critics alike, creating misunderstandings about his true beliefs and intentions. His complex lyrics and infrequent interviews lead to lots of interpretations, some far from the truth.
  3. The film 'A Complete Unknown' attempts to provide a straightforward take on Dylan's early career, but it misses the bigger picture of his unique relationship with the political scene around him. Dylan chose his own path, moving away from the expectations of his folk singer peers.

some thoughts on friendship

bookbear express • 770 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Friendship Relationships Personal Growth Social Dynamics Communication
  1. True friendship can feel like a marriage, taking time to develop and evolve. It's important to appreciate the journey of getting to know each other deeply over the years.
  2. Making friends is a lot like dating, with excitement and a bit of uncertainty. It takes time to figure out the friendship dynamics and sometimes requires patience to see if it grows.
  3. Friendship can be asymmetrical; one person may want more closeness than the other. It's okay to feel hurt by this, but it's also essential to recognize that not all friendships will be balanced.

Through Autumn's Canopy

Holly’s Newsletter • 912 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art Photography Writing Nature Seasons
  1. Autumn is a time of change and new possibilities, making it a reflective season. It's a chance to enjoy the beauty around us and think about changes in our lives.
  2. New England is at its peak foliage in autumn, offering stunning landscapes and colors. Driving through this area can be an enjoyable experience, taking in the vibrant sights.
  3. Engaging in activities like taking fall photos allows for appreciation of the season. Sharing these experiences can bring joy to others, whether through comments or just enjoying the views.

People prefer A.I. art because people prefer bad art

Read Max • 12303 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art Technology Philosophy Literature Society
  1. People often have a hard time telling the difference between AI art and human art. This shows how good AI has become at creating images that people find appealing.
  2. Many people seem to prefer AI-generated art because it's straightforward and easy to understand. In contrast, more complex human art can be confusing or challenging.
  3. This trend suggests that people's tastes lean towards art that feels familiar and comfortable, which is why they might choose AI art over more challenging pieces.

How to Help People in LA *Right Now*

Culture Study • 2731 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Natural Disasters Fundraising
  1. There are many ways to help people affected by the fires in Los Angeles, including donating to specific families or organizations in need.
  2. You don't have to donate a lot; even small amounts can help provide much-needed stability for those who have lost everything.
  3. Volunteering your time or sharing resources, like lists of GoFundMes, can make a real difference for people during tough times.

The femcel crypto-degen catalog model and the serial killer

Read Max • 922 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media Film Music Literature Art
  1. There's been a lot of talk about a little AI from China that really made waves in Silicon Valley this week. It seems to be a big deal in tech discussions right now.
  2. A new dark web movie explores intense themes like true crime, cryptocurrency, and mental health issues. It sounds like a gripping watch for those interested in these topics.
  3. A new album has been released that combines sounds similar to Radiohead. If you enjoy multi-instrumental music, this could be a great addition to your playlist.

The finer things in life

Austin Kleon • 6614 implied HN points • 02 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Arts Entertainment Sports Media Lifestyle
  1. Being in a state of flow is key to happiness, as it helps us focus fully on what we love doing. This idea connects both athletes and artists, showing how engagement with our passions can bring joy.
  2. The Olympics brings out strong emotions in us, as we witness athletes pushing their limits. However, there’s a contrast between the real-life experiences of these athletes and the commercial push for technology and AI.
  3. Creative work often requires us to not overthink. Many athletes express that letting go of thoughts is what helps them perform better, which can also apply to how we approach creativity in our everyday lives.

#206: Hosting parties, having babies, being “original”

Maybe Baby • 1192 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Friendship Parenting Socialization Originality Connection
  1. Making friends can happen at any age, and it's normal to want connection. Even if life changes, there are always people looking for friendship.
  2. Hosting parties can be a great way to connect with others, even for introverts. It's about taking a chance to invite people and create opportunities for fun together.
  3. Knowing when you're ready to have kids is personal, and it's okay to feel unsure. Communication with your partner is key, and thinking about your family dynamics can help you decide.