The hottest Culture Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Culture Topics

Ketanji Brown Jackson Goes Broadway

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 6913 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Arts Theater Entertainment Society Humor
  1. Ketanji Brown Jackson became the first Supreme Court Justice to perform on Broadway. This was a special and historic moment for both her and the theater.
  2. She made a surprise appearance in a fun musical called '& Juliet,' which offers a twist on the classic Romeo and Juliet story. It's a modern and playful take that focuses on female empowerment.
  3. The musical is described as a campy satire, blending humor with social themes. It aims to challenge traditional narratives, making it memorable and possibly polarizing for audiences.

What I'm Thankful For

Freddie deBoer • 10643 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Thanksgiving Family Mental health Media Personal Growth Food
  1. Being thankful for loved ones is essential. Family and friends provide support in tough times.
  2. Thanksgiving is a favorite holiday because it focuses on gratitude without the stress of gift-giving. It’s a time to relax and enjoy good food and company.
  3. Mental health medications can be life-saving. They have helped many people rebuild their lives, despite some negative opinions about them.

The Typical Man Disgusts the Typical Woman

Bet On It • 2621 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Relationships Social norms Gender Studies Psychology Evolutionary Theory
  1. Men and women often have very different views on attractiveness. Most men rate women highly, but many women rate men much lower.
  2. Rejection isn't just personal; it's often about general trends in attraction. Women may reject many men because they generally find most men less appealing.
  3. Both men and women can improve their dating experiences. Men can work on personal grooming and manners, while women can try to appreciate qualities like charm and humor more.

The Ick List

Many Such Cases • 2877 implied HN points • 27 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Relationships Emotions Social media Gender Dynamics
  1. Desire can be confusing and change quickly. People might feel attracted to someone one moment and then completely turned off the next because of small things.
  2. The feeling called 'the ick' can stop attraction suddenly for many, especially women, making it hard for them to stay interested in someone for minor reasons.
  3. Labeling minor annoyances as 'icks' can lead to unrealistic expectations in dating. It's often better to relax and not take these little things too seriously.

I've Been Watching These 17 YouTube Videos

The Honest Broker • 6416 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media Music Entertainment Art Technology
  1. YouTube has become a major platform, making more money than Netflix and attracting billions of user hours daily. It's like the new TV for many people.
  2. There is a lot of low-quality content on YouTube, but you can still find great videos if you know where to look.
  3. Artist exploitation in the music industry is still a big issue, with many musicians not earning money from their own work, and changes in technology are bringing past musicians back into the spotlight.
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Things Worth Remembering: The Empathy of J.K. Rowling

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 6969 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Public Speaking Media Art Philosophy
  1. J.K. Rowling reminded everyone how powerful imagination can be during her speech at Harvard. It's a great reminder of the importance of creativity in our lives.
  2. Rowling is praised for being a brilliant and successful writer, despite facing controversy in recent years. Her talent and impact on literature shouldn't be overlooked.
  3. It's essential to appreciate remarkable people like Rowling while they are still alive. We often wait too long to celebrate the contributions of influential figures.

ICYMI: Trans thought experiments

gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen • 1170 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Identity Gender Philosophy Literature Community
  1. Thought experiments can help people think about their gender identity, like imagining a magical button that changes your sex. If you'd push that button, it might mean you feel trans.
  2. Imagining transformation doesn't change real-life limits and challenges of transitioning. It can be more complex than just wishing for change.
  3. The journey of transformation can have unexpected outcomes. It's not just about the physical changes, but also dealing with inner feelings and realities.

‘Emilia Pérez’ and the Curse of Oscar Bait

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1358 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Awards Media Entertainment Arts
  1. The film 'Emilia Pérez' is a strong Oscar contender, despite losing money at the box office. Many viewers may feel left out because it wasn't made with them in mind.
  2. Oscar bait films are designed to catch the attention of Academy voters, who often favor serious dramas and social commentary. This leads to films that resonate more with industry insiders than with general audiences.
  3. Past Oscar winners like 'Moonlight' and 'Nomadland' show a pattern of how the awards often favor poignant stories, even if they don't perform well commercially.

Why are Dakotans Not Like Scandinavians?

Erik Examines • 44 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Identity Tradition Migration Language Social Behavior
  1. Culture is shaped more by the society we live in than by our genetic background. People can look similar but behave very differently based on their cultural experiences.
  2. Understanding comes from shared culture and language rather than just appearance. Having common experiences and cultural references can create deeper connections than shared heritage alone.
  3. In America, there's a strong focus on race in discussions about behavior and culture, which can be different from European perspectives that emphasize cultural variety across different countries.

David Lynch, 1946-2025.

The Bottom Feeder • 630 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Art Fantasy Media
  1. David Lynch was a unique filmmaker who made strange but influential art that didn't always make sense. His work often blended reality with surreal elements, creating something both unsettling and captivating.
  2. Lynch believed in having the final cut of his films, which meant his vision was fully realized without outside interference. This independence can inspire other creators to prioritize their artistic integrity.
  3. Modern fantasy often makes magic too clear and predictable, which can take away its mystery. Lynch's work reminds us that magic can be strange and elusive, making it much more compelling.

How to Like Things More

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2861 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Food Music Literature Entertainment
  1. You can learn to enjoy things more by practicing. Like any skill, enjoying experiences takes effort and attention.
  2. Focus on the details that make something special. Instead of just noticing the obvious, try to find the layers beneath the surface.
  3. Sometimes, it's about shifting your perspective. Looking at different aspects of what you like can deepen your appreciation and make the experience more rewarding.

My Friend Max

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2624 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Memoir Friendship Art Travel Death
  1. Max was a unique and thoughtful person who had a passion for living life to the fullest. He was obsessed with exploring new places and tried new adventures often.
  2. He valued the concept of 'value' in various forms, whether it was calculating the best meal deals or considering the impact of choices he made in life, like his charitable efforts.
  3. Despite his quirky habits and passions, Max had a deep love for the people in his life. His friendships were authentic, and he left a mark on everyone he met.

2024 in Review

Freddie deBoer • 4331 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Music Media Youth Trends Society Criticism
  1. The 'brat' meme seemed to be more popular with older generations, and it might not really reflect what younger people actually enjoy or connect with.
  2. Many people in media feel pressured to stay relevant and youthful, leading them to embrace trends like 'brat' to seem more in touch.
  3. There's a growing disconnect where older writers might misinterpret the interests of younger audiences, wanting to feel young themselves through cultural phenomena.

The State of the Culture, 2024

The Honest Broker • 121016 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment Arts Technology Social Issues Addiction
  1. The entertainment industry is facing challenges like Disney in crisis, Paramount laying off employees, and a decline in TV shows, showing a shift towards a post-entertainment culture.
  2. The culture is transitioning towards a focus on distraction and addiction, with tech platforms using stimuli to create addictive cycles, impacting people's brains and happiness levels.
  3. As our culture evolves into a dopamine-driven society, it becomes essential to be mindful of our consumption habits, unplug from technology at times, and appreciate the real world around us.

What I'm reading about the tech right and Trump, a gonzo Iron-Age movie with dialogue in proto-Latin, my all-time favorite album now on streaming

Read Max • 1290 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Arts Literature Film Music
  1. There are lots of interesting articles out there about tech leaders like Trump, Elon Musk, and Mark Zuckerberg. They cover some pretty serious topics.
  2. A fun Italian movie set in the Iron Age is being recommended. It's cheesy and entertaining, perfect for a light watch.
  3. One of the all-time favorite albums of the author is now available to stream online. It's exciting to have it accessible again.

I said no to $20,000 because writers must take a moral stand on AI

The Intrinsic Perspective • 40255 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Ethics Creativity Technology Media
  1. Writers should think carefully about the use of AI in their work. Making money is tempting, but authenticity and moral choices matter more.
  2. AI-generated content can create false connections. It's not the same as having a real conversation with a human being.
  3. Supporting human writers and creators is important to maintain authenticity in culture. Subscriptions to real human content can help keep that alive.

HALLOWEEN HORRORS

THREE SEVEN MAFIA • 1278 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Film Horror Art Media Literature
  1. The horror film 'X-TRO' explores deep themes of family and alienation against the backdrop of 1980s UK troubles. Its unique approach makes it not just a scary film, but also a reflection of society's issues.
  2. In 'FOUND', the story of a boy dealing with a serial killer brother unfolds in a disturbing, shocking way. It's not just about horror; it shows the complex family dynamics and the impact of violence.
  3. The classic 'PHANTASM' combines elements of science fiction and horror, raising questions about reality and death. Its surreal style captures the fears of childhood, resonating with anyone who grew up in the dangerous environment of the late 70s.

What Are You Reading?!? (In January)

Culture Study • 2436 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Books Literature Reading Online Communities
  1. Taking a break from social media can help you find more time to read. Less screen time often leads to more focus on books.
  2. A historical romance that feels genuine and avoids clichés can be very enjoyable. A well-researched story makes it easier to connect with the characters.
  3. Engaging with others about books can spark new reading interests. Sharing what you're reading helps build a community around literature.

How ‘Puss in Boots' Reveals the Key to Human Happiness (Seriously)

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 158 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Film Philosophy Happiness Society Literature
  1. Appreciating what you have is key to happiness. Instead of focusing on what you don't have, think about the good things in your life.
  2. The characters in 'Puss in Boots' show that friendship and love matter more than wishes. Sometimes, you realize what you want is already around you.
  3. Envy not only makes you unhappy, but it can also lead you down a dark path. Being grateful helps you enjoy life better.

Why Recurring Dream Themes?

Astral Codex Ten • 19409 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Dreams Psychology Memory Anxiety Interpretation
  1. Many people have recurring dreams about feeling unprepared, like forgetting homework or missing a flight. These dreams might reflect worries about not being ready for something important.
  2. Some experts believe these dreams could be linked to 'prospective memory,' which is how we remember future tasks and responsibilities. Our brains may remind us of these tasks in our dreams.
  3. Another idea is that recurring dreams may come from strange feelings we have while sleeping. These feelings can shape the stories we experience in our dreams.

As petals fall on moss

Silentium • 299 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Philosophy Music History
  1. Silence can be a powerful invitation for reflection and peace. It allows us to connect more deeply with our surroundings.
  2. Paying attention to small details, like falling petals, can help us appreciate the beauty in everyday life.
  3. Taking moments of stillness is important for mental well-being. It helps us recharge and find clarity in our thoughts.

Why I wrote an article questioning the prevalence of white supremacy in psychology

Heterodox STEM • 170 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Race Issues Psychology Education Social justice
  1. The American Psychological Association apologized for its past role in racism, highlighting the need for change in the field. Psychologists must acknowledge history while moving forward to support all communities.
  2. A detailed critique of clinical psychology accused it of harboring racism and called for an anti-racist approach. The authors believe that psychology must evolve to be more inclusive and fair.
  3. The response to the critique showed mixed feelings, with some supporting it and others opposing it. This indicates a deep divide in psychology on how to address racism and maintain scientific integrity.

Meditations On Bono Receiving The Presidential Medal Of Freedom From Joe Biden

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 3166 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Music Art Activism Politics Society
  1. Bono has been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, raising questions about the authenticity of such awards in a society perceived as fake.
  2. Despite his humanitarian claims, Bono has strong ties to powerful figures and institutions, leading to criticism of his commercialized activism.
  3. The current state of art and creativity is often corrupted, serving the interests of the elite instead of promoting genuine change for the betterment of society.

A short defence of gossip

The Common Reader • 1417 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Moral Philosophy Communication Human behavior Ethics
  1. Gossip helps us communicate the truth when direct conversations feel difficult. It allows people to share important information without the pressure of a public setting.
  2. Telling the truth is morally important, especially when it can serve as a warning about someone's behavior. This makes gossip a tool for honest inquiry.
  3. Even though gossip often gets a bad reputation, it has a valuable role in social interactions. It enables people to express concerns and share insights about others.

Niall Ferguson: The Vibe Shift Goes Global

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 6543 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Trends Pop culture Aesthetics Geopolitics Society
  1. Culture influences politics and geopolitics, making it important to understand cultural trends.
  2. There have been distinct vibe shifts in pop culture over the years, each with its own style, like Hipster/Indie and Hypebeast/Woke.
  3. Recent changes in tech culture reflect a shift towards a more unfiltered environment, especially with Elon Musk's influence.

Clayton, Missouri

In My Tribe • 486 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🎭️ Culture Identity History Education Society Biography
  1. Sam Altman grew up in Clayton, Missouri, which is known for its strong educational system and smart students. The schools there were very competitive, and many students had high academic achievements.
  2. The author reflects on the importance of understanding different personalities in the startup world. Some talented individuals might be seen as difficult, but their unique contributions can be valuable.
  3. The history of Clayton and its changing demographics highlights issues like segregation. The neighborhood has transformed over the years, showing shifts in social dynamics and community identity.

Is the Baroness in The Sound of Music a Nazi?

The Common Reader • 2055 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Literature History Art Theater
  1. The Baroness in The Sound of Music might be seen as a Nazi sympathizer due to her actions and lack of opposition to the Nazi regime. Her character does not openly challenge the views around her.
  2. She maintains a connection to Rolf, who is aligned with the Nazis, indicating a passive acceptance of his stance. This raises questions about her moral standing in the film.
  3. While the film is viewed as a beloved classic, the deeper analysis of its characters, like the Baroness, reveals complex themes related to loyalty and affiliation during a troubled historical period.

Listening is the whole deal

Austin Kleon • 6554 implied HN points • 26 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Film Literature Creative Process
  1. Listening is really important in music and art. It helps you connect deeply with what you're experiencing, whether it's a song or a piece of writing.
  2. Movies like _Perfect Days_ show us the beauty of simple life moments, like taking photos and enjoying music, reminding us to appreciate everyday experiences.
  3. When creating something, many artists say they listen to their work. It’s like the art guides them on what to do next—this shows how important it is to be open and receptive during the creative process.

Watch out for snakes

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

🚀 Beyond 'The Jetsons': A new vision of a fantastic future that never was

Faster, Please! • 1096 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Film Design Futurism Architecture Literature
  1. Stories about the future are really important. They can inspire people to be more creative and push for new technologies.
  2. Dystopian tales have been popular for a long time, which makes the need for positive and hopeful stories about the future even greater.
  3. With technology changing fast, like AI and space travel, we need more stories that remind us to dream big and embrace progress.

New England's October Glory

Holly’s Newsletter • 1170 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Photography Nature Travel Seasonal Lifestyle
  1. October is a beautiful time in New England as the leaves change colors. It's a great opportunity to enjoy the scenery and take lots of photos.
  2. Spending weekends offline can be refreshing and gives a chance to appreciate nature. Long drives while taking pictures can be a peaceful escape.
  3. Finding new spots for photography can be thrilling. Even if some places are crowded, exploring new areas can lead to stunning captures.

Internet History Must Always Be an Oral History

Default Wisdom • 240 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Digital Culture Internet History Media Critique Social Trends Technology impact
  1. To really understand Internet history, we need to listen to the people who lived it. Written posts alone don't capture the feelings and context behind what was shared.
  2. There's a cultural divide happening with how people use technology, where some feel overwhelmed and want to log off, while others see more positives in staying connected online.
  3. Many current debates about technology and identity show that no one side has all the answers. Both younger and older generations shape how we talk about things like identity politics.

The Year of McDonald’s

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 5810 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Food culture Social Commentary Media Analysis Identity
  1. McDonald's is a key part of American culture and daily life, often reflecting larger social issues. It's more than just a fast-food place; it represents community and familiarity for many people.
  2. Recent events involving McDonald's, like a controversial Trump campaign stop and a notable arrest, highlight how deeply intertwined the brand is with current affairs and public interest.
  3. Some media reactions to incidents at McDonald's show a disconnect from the everyday experiences of regular customers, indicating a lack of understanding about what the restaurant means to people.

Watching women cannibalize themselves for fun and profit

Men Yell at Me • 444 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🎭️ Culture Media Gender Society Religion Reality TV
  1. Reality shows like 'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' show the struggles women face in a patriarchal society. These women navigate personal relationships while dealing with societal pressures.
  2. Despite being successful, many women feel trapped by expectations at home and in their faith. They are the breadwinners, but still carry the bulk of household responsibilities.
  3. The show's drama reflects real issues many women face today, like work-life balance and societal judgment. Watching these stories can make it easier to question the larger systems affecting all women.

The Girlboss Is Sleeping with the Intern

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2606 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Society Gender Art Literature
  1. There is a growing sense of dissatisfaction among women, leading some to seek out new experiences or break commitments. Many women feel trapped in their current lives and long for excitement or change.
  2. The film 'Babygirl' explores the character Romy, who seems successful but feels unfulfilled in her marriage. Her search for pleasure and connection leads her to an affair with her younger intern.
  3. Romy's journey highlights the complexities of desire and the risks people take when chasing what they think will make them happy. It raises questions about love, commitment, and personal satisfaction.

The Red-Pill Delusion About Women

Erik Examines • 89 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Gender Studies Relationships Feminism Social Commentary Psychology
  1. Women have always been active in choosing their partners, not just passive victims. Relationships involve love and emotional connections, not just power dynamics.
  2. Both men and women experience sexual desire, and female desire is often influenced by emotional connections and cultural factors. It's wrong to see women as simply waiting for men to take charge.
  3. Modern dating challenges are not because women are too free, but because some men struggle with women's independence and equality. Healthy relationships should be based on mutual respect and understanding.

Seeking: Dating advice

Maybe Baby • 750 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Relationships Dating Advice Social Lifestyle
  1. Sometimes, it helps to get different perspectives on personal questions. Asking friends or readers can lead to great advice.
  2. Everyone has unique experiences that can inform their advice. Sharing questions publicly can bring in valuable insights.
  3. It's okay to not have all the answers yourself. Leaning on a community for support and guidance can be really beneficial.

The Cat in the Tree: Why AI Content Leaves Us Cold

The Convivial Society • 2628 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Technology Philosophy Human experience Society
  1. AI-generated content can be technically impressive but often feels dull and forgettable to many people. It lacks the emotional warmth that comes from human creativity.
  2. Unexpected discoveries, like finding a charming painting in nature, can bring genuine delight and a sense of connection. This feeling of surprise adds value to human-made art.
  3. The essence of art lies in human intention and presence. Simple acts of creativity can create a sense of companionship and joy, forming connections in a lonely world.

Year in review, 2024

The Common Reader • 2799 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Criticism Media Publishing
  1. Subscriber numbers more than doubled from 7,440 to 16,068 in a year, showing strong growth. Thanks to everyone for reading!
  2. The book 'Second Act' received positive reviews from well-known publications, highlighting its appeal to late bloomers seeking success.
  3. Popular topics on The Common Reader included essays on literary criticism and cultural commentary, reflecting a mix of interests among readers.