The hottest Culture Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Hidden Open Thread 383.5

Astral Codex Ten • 412 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🎭️ Culture Community Discussion Social Opinion Trends
  1. This post is designed for paying subscribers only. It's important to support content creators by subscribing if you enjoy their work.
  2. There is a comment section for readers to engage and share their thoughts. It's a good way to connect with others who have similar interests.
  3. The post may include various topics for discussion, making it a flexible space for sharing ideas and perspectives. It's a nice way to explore different viewpoints.

What's the Most Profitable Movie of the Year? (No, I Won't Watch It.)

The Honest Broker • 12168 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Film Music Literature Entertainment Art
  1. Horror movies are really making money right now. Films like 'Terrifier 3' and 'Smile 2' are bringing in huge profits compared to what they cost to make.
  2. Bob Dylan is now writing quirky tweets directly from his account, sharing his unique thoughts without his team’s help. It offers fans a personal look at his views beyond music.
  3. People are increasingly worried about AI. Many believe it's reducing trust in media and making us lazier, and most want more rules on how AI is used.

Why there's no "Joe Rogan of the left"

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 1140 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Entertainment Politics Society Identity
  1. There's no 'Joe Rogan of the left' because Rogan appeals to a non-political crowd. To engage more people, the left needs to communicate in spaces outside traditional politics.
  2. Rogan has created a strong connection with his audience by producing a lot of content. This helps him fight loneliness for listeners who feel like he is their friend.
  3. People are drawn to fun and relatable content. If the left wants to attract more followers, they need to focus on building positive relationships instead of criticizing others.

American Vacuum

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 777 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Education Philosophy Media Politics Society
  1. The culture in America often values quick opinions over deep thinking. This makes it hard for creative and thoughtful ideas to grow.
  2. Young people in America face barriers in education and media that limit their intellectual development. Many don't even realize what they're missing out on.
  3. There are three main issues affecting American culture today: focusing too much on the present, lacking appreciation for art, and searching for meaning only through hard facts.

18 Paying Pitch Calls and a Chance to Write About Chilly Movies

The Sub Club Newsletter • 317 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Writing Movies History Media Parenting
  1. There are 18 different pitch calls available this week for writers looking to get paid. It's a great chance for anyone to get their stories published.
  2. Writers should focus on making their stories feel timely and relevant. Adding a current angle to historical topics can help attract interest.
  3. There's a free workshop available to learn how to write effective pitches. It can help improve your chances of getting published by teaching you what editors want.
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two new YouTube video essays!

Switch Hitter • 438 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Media Feminism Celebrity Transgender Relationships
  1. New YouTube videos explore parasocial relationships and gender issues. They look closely at how fans' behavior can mimic harassment.
  2. One video challenges the idea that trans people reinforce gender stereotypes. It argues that this view is based on flawed logic and double standards.
  3. There are plans for more video essays in the future, covering various topics. The creator is still committed to writing while expanding to video content.

Body Horror on Super Bowl Sunday

Off-Topic • 419 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Advertising Media Consumerism Sports Social Commentary
  1. The Super Bowl is like a national holiday, with many people feeling they have to watch it, even if they're not big football fans. It's a time for friends and food, making it a fun ritual.
  2. This year's commercials took a strange turn, featuring creepy or gross body-related humor. Many ads seemed to focus on bizarre and unsettling visuals rather than traditional advertising themes.
  3. Some ads poked fun at the absurdity of the Super Bowl experience itself by including dark humor or shocking moments, possibly hinting that we should lighten up about this wild tradition.

Orson Welles as Falstaff on Late Night TV

Castles in the Sky • 15 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Theater Film Television Literature Art
  1. Orson Welles performing Shakespeare on late-night TV was a bold and unique choice. Today, it would be surprising to see such dramatic performances on those shows.
  2. The film 'Chimes at Midnight' creatively combines multiple Shakespeare plays, which is a clever idea that could inspire others to mix classic storytelling with modern interpretations.
  3. There’s a desire to read all of Shakespeare’s plays, and a group reading challenge could make it more enjoyable. Having a community can motivate people to explore Shakespeare together.

The Hero and other Cultural Characters

Chris Arnade Walks the World • 2116 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Masculinity Social Behavior Identity
  1. Men often want to feel like heroes and this need gives them a sense of purpose. When they can rescue or protect others, it boosts their self-worth.
  2. Societies need positive hero roles for men to fill, like firefighters or engineers. Without these, negative behaviors can emerge and create bigger problems.
  3. Cultural roles shape how people live and interact. Having healthy characters to identify with is important, as they help provide meaning and connection to the community.

Le ménage n'est pas moral

L'Atelier Galita • 219 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Social norms Gender Roles Mental health Self-Improvement Education
  1. Cleaning is a skill, not a moral failure. If you're not great at it, that just means you haven't learned yet.
  2. Many popular cleaning methods come from people who are already skilled, making it hard for beginners to learn. It's important to find someone who can explain things clearly.
  3. It's okay to delegate cleaning tasks to others. Just like you would hire someone for a ride or food delivery, you can get help with cleaning without feeling bad about it.

A Calming Low Winter Sky of Links & Recs

Culture Study • 2846 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Books Food Games Nature Lifestyle
  1. It's nice to spend time doing things that make you feel relaxed and at home, like gardening or cooking. Simple activities can bring joy and comfort, especially in winter.
  2. Trying new things, like a fun game or a good book, can be a great way to break the routine and keep things interesting. Sharing these experiences makes them even better.
  3. Enjoying time with family and friends, such as skiing and having fun moments together, helps strengthen relationships and creates memorable experiences.

How and What Are You Learning as an Adult?

Culture Study • 1756 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Personal Growth Education Social Issues Cultural Studies
  1. Learning as an adult is important for personal growth. It helps you understand yourself and the world better.
  2. There are many ways to learn, including asking questions and engaging with others. Conversations with diverse people can offer new insights.
  3. Embracing continuous learning can lead to better relationships and a more fulfilling life. It's never too late to start learning something new.

Internet Morality Can't Be the Same as Meatspace Morality

Default Wisdom • 103 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Internet culture Social media Online Identity Ethics Community Dynamics
  1. People online often create fake personas to gain attention or money. Trusting influencers for moral guidance can be naive, as their main goal is usually to entertain or sell something.
  2. Not everyone we meet online is meant to be friends in real life. It's important to be careful about what personal details we share and to maintain boundaries between online and offline relationships.
  3. Jealousy can happen when partners are attracted to fictional characters or idealized versions of people. This type of jealousy feels more intense because it involves competing with something that doesn’t even exist in reality.

Fighting Discrimination Does Not Entail Defending Shitty Social Behavior

Freddie deBoer • 6373 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Social media Mental health Discrimination Fandom Pop culture
  1. Fighting for rights is important, but we shouldn't excuse bad behavior in the process. It's okay to say 'knock it off' when people act inappropriately.
  2. Many young people mimic serious disorders for attention, but this can be harmful to those who genuinely struggle with those issues. It's important to critique this without fear of backlash.
  3. Online fandoms can become hostile, with people using accusations of bigotry to silence criticism. It's necessary for communities to be able to set healthy boundaries and address bad behavior.

It's Obviously the Phones

Many Such Cases • 36729 implied HN points • 05 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Technology impact Mental health Community Dynamics Cultural Trends
  1. Phones are a major reason why many people feel lonely and have less sex. They take away real-life time we could spend with friends and family.
  2. People today are spending more time on their phones than ever before, sometimes up to ten hours a day. This means less time connecting with others in person.
  3. Even though there are fewer places to socialize, it's also about how much we choose to focus on our phones instead of real-life interactions. We can choose to use our phones less and try to connect with people more.

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.

From A Care-Less To A Care-Full Future

Creative Destruction • 26 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Arts Media Design Fashion Gaming
  1. Products made with care and love stand out in a world filled with mediocre options. People appreciate the effort put into creating something beautiful and meaningful.
  2. There is a growing movement against mass-produced, cookie-cutter items. Many are seeking unique and thoughtful creations that offer a sense of connection.
  3. With so much low-quality content and design around us, high-quality work feels refreshing. It reminds us that better things are possible and worth pursuing.

A Culture Study Mirror

Culture Study • 3295 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Essays Media Trends Identity Critique
  1. You don't have to read everything an author puts out. Just engaging with some of their work is enough, and that's something to celebrate.
  2. There’s a lot of content available, including popular essays and personal favorites, so there’s always something new or interesting to discover.
  3. Being proud of what you create is important, and it’s okay to highlight the work that feels very personal or meaningful to you.

#205: My TikTok Shop purchase history

Maybe Baby • 1214 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Consumer behavior Social media Lifestyle Product Reviews
  1. TikTok Shop has become a popular place for online shopping, making billions in sales since its launch. Many people, despite initial hesitations, are drawn to its simplicity and variety.
  2. While some purchases from TikTok Shop can be enjoyable, many items end up being low quality or unnecessary. It's easy to impulse buy when seeing products advertised by relatable users.
  3. Reflecting on buying habits can reveal a lack of thoughtful choices. Sometimes, the urge to shop online can lead to regret and a realization that we didn't really need those items.

Against the Factory Farming of Creativity

Altered States of Monetary Consciousness • 1544 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Creativity Technology Society Economics
  1. The rise of AI in creativity can make it hard to trust what's real. Many people now question if an artwork or a piece of writing is made by a human or a machine.
  2. Generative AI systems often simply copy styles instead of creating unique works. This can dilute the personal stories and emotions behind the art, making it feel less authentic.
  3. There’s a growing push for an 'AI-Free' label, similar to fair trade, to signify work that comes from genuine human creativity instead of machine-generated content.

On Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, and the curse of charisma

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 784 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Comedy Performing Arts Public Speaking Entertainment Media
  1. Dave Chappelle and Chris Rock create their comedy in different ways, which shows in their performances. Chappelle is known for his powerful speaking that draws people in.
  2. Chappelle has strong oratory skills that put him on par with great speakers like MLK and Obama. His ability to captivate an audience is exceptional.
  3. Despite his charisma, there can be downsides to being such a compelling speaker. It raises questions about how that might affect him as a performer.

Good friends and dream lamps

Disaffected Newsletter • 2298 implied HN points • 23 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Art Food Collecting Memories
  1. Having good friends and sharing special moments, like a nice lunch, can bring a lot of joy to life. Simple conversations and meals can make for the best memories.
  2. Collecting unique items, like kerosene lamps, can be a fulfilling hobby. Finding a special piece, like a beautiful lamp, can make a person feel excited and happy.
  3. Celebrating childhood dreams, like having a special Jeannie bottle, can be very rewarding. Realizing those dreams later in life is a great way to reflect on what truly matters.

Life Cannot Be Delegated

The Convivial Society • 2609 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Technology Humanity Philosophy Society Tradition
  1. Life is about personal involvement and cannot be handed off to technology. When we let technology take over important parts of our lives, we miss out on what makes life meaningful.
  2. We should think carefully about how much we delegate to technology. There are limits to how much we can rely on it before it stops helping us and starts taking away from our experience of life.
  3. Everyday tasks and responsibilities are not distractions; they are part of what shapes our lives. Embracing the mundane can help us find purpose and meaning in our actions.

Culture Study Classifieds, Heart of Winter Style

Culture Study • 2372 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Community Arts Film Podcasts
  1. The classifieds section connects readers from all over the world, allowing them to share services and create groups like book clubs.
  2. People can post about services they offer, skills they want to share for free, or projects they're proud of to gain support and praise.
  3. This space encourages readers to find recommendations, make new friends, or even trade items, creating a supportive community online.

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 880 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Fashion Media Lifestyle
  1. This week I focused on enjoying a lot of desserts because of my period. It was a nice treat to indulge in sweet things.
  2. I read an interesting article about David Lynch and what it was like growing up near him. The story about his Scion car was especially fun.
  3. I found a cute knit outfit for Sunny that makes her look just like Diane Keaton. It's a stylish choice!

Totoro Before Totoro

Animation Obsessive • 16952 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Animation Film Art Media History
  1. In the late 1970s, Hayao Miyazaki began his career by working on the film 'Panda! Go, Panda!' which greatly influenced his future works.
  2. The film focused on everyday life, showing a young girl and her magical encounters, aiming to highlight the charm in simple moments.
  3. Many key staff members from 'Panda!' went on to shape Studio Ghibli, showing its lasting impact on animation and storytelling.

Doomscroll: Yung Chomsky

Joshua Citarella's Newsletter • 377 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Fitness Online Communities Health Nutrition Aesthetics
  1. Yung Chomsky talks about his journey into the world of weight lifting and how he learned from different online communities. It's an interesting mix of lifting culture and personal growth.
  2. He addresses common mistakes people make when starting to lift weights, like following bad advice found online. Understanding proper training and nutrition can help you reach your fitness goals more effectively.
  3. The episode also touches on the surprising links between fitness culture and politics, particularly how some online groups can influence attitudes and behaviors.

Making the Video That Made Gorillaz

Animation Obsessive • 15517 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Animation Music Media Art Television
  1. Pete Candeland, the director behind the iconic Gorillaz video for 'Clint Eastwood,' used innovative animation techniques to blend 2D and CGI, creating a unique look that set the standard for animated music videos at the time.
  2. Candeland's animation style evolved from a limited budget, leading him to focus on the most important movements and actions, resulting in a distinctive, under-animated approach that became a signature for Gorillaz.
  3. The editing process was crucial for Candeland, allowing him to manipulate timing and create a dynamic flow with the music, making animation a more live and engaging experience.

New column: Headlines of Interest

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 121 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media Politics Science Technology Entertainment
  1. Scientists are tracking a fast radio burst from a dead galaxy. This challenges what we thought we knew about how these signals can happen.
  2. A new blood test called PAC-MANN could help find pancreatic cancer earlier. Early detection can really improve treatment outcomes for patients.
  3. Chocolate prices are going up because of bad weather and disease affecting cocoa production in West Africa. This means chocolate bars may get smaller or more expensive.

The Plays About the End of the World

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 222 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Theater Art Literature Media Performance
  1. New plays about AI are popping up everywhere, showing how people respond to new technologies. They don't predict an apocalypse, but they reveal our emotions and reactions.
  2. Theater might seem like a strange place to talk about complicated tech ideas. But these plays manage to make tough topics more relatable and human.
  3. Rather than traditional, boring themes, these plays bring fresh perspectives on current issues with technology that are important to us today. They offer entertaining yet thoughtful reflections on our future.

The World is a Morality Play

From the New World • 26 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Anime Philosophy Gender Studies Media Critique
  1. The anime Madoka Magica shows how personal desires can lead to tragic outcomes. If characters aren't careful about what they wish for, they can end up worse off.
  2. Kyubey, the magical cat, uses the emotions and struggles of magical girls as energy to keep the universe alive. This creates a cycle of suffering that drives the story.
  3. Homura is a character who learns to understand her true desires, challenging the idea of sacrificing for others. She ultimately transcends typical morality by getting the power she wants and fighting against the system.

Top Links 633 Van Gogh and the end of nature. How the UK kicked coal & China's approach to modernization

Chartbook • 515 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Nature History Modernization Environment
  1. Van Gogh's artwork reflects a connection to nature and highlights the changes happening in the world around us. His pieces can show the beauty of nature, but also hint at its decline.
  2. The UK's transition away from coal energy showcases a significant shift towards more sustainable practices. This change is a crucial step in fighting climate change and preserving the environment.
  3. China's modernization is an interesting blend of tradition and innovation. It highlights how countries can evolve while balancing their historical roots with modern advancements.

How to Be a Joiner

Culture Study • 4155 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Community Tradition Friendship Inclusivity
  1. Joining a community helps you feel a sense of belonging. When you meet new people who share your interests, it can be uplifting and comforting.
  2. Participating in regular traditions or rituals can make life more enjoyable. These simple routines, even if they seem silly, create positive energy in your week.
  3. It's normal to feel nervous about joining new groups. Just showing up a few times can help you feel more comfortable and connected, which is worth the initial awkwardness.

The West Is Still Alive in Nevada

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2170 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Arts Traditions Identity Geography Lifestyle
  1. Nevada has a unique spirit that sets it apart from other Western states. It's a place where the old Wild West vibe still exists, especially in small towns.
  2. The state is known for its tough and desolate landscapes, which can test the limits of those who venture there. Many who seek fortune may find both success and hardship.
  3. Visiting places like Elko can be an adventure filled with unexpected experiences, from lively bars to the harsh realities of the desert life.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 40

Why is this interesting? • 120 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Arts Literature Social Events Nature Parenting
  1. Casual parties can be fun! In the past, people would invite friends over last minute and not worry about getting dressed up.
  2. Beavers can also be great helpers. Their dams saved a Czech government a lot of money because they help manage water flow.
  3. Reading to kids is more than just fun. It can improve breathing and create special moments between parents and children.

Cruising for Classical Music in LA

The Honest Broker • 7879 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Music Art Literature Education Creative Expression
  1. Dana Gioia's passion for modern classical music started in his teenage years when he sought out composers like Stravinsky and Copland instead of popular music.
  2. Today, technology has made it much easier to access a wide variety of music, unlike the past when finding new pieces required significant effort and was often limited.
  3. Diving into music discussions and experiences with friends helped shape individual tastes, and exploring art personally is more meaningful than relying on others' opinions.

How Do You Fall in Love with the In-Between?

Culture Study • 3654 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays Traditions Family Dynamics Personal Reflection
  1. During the holiday season, routines often get disrupted, creating a feeling of being in limbo. This time can be uncomfortable, but it's also a chance to slow down and just be.
  2. It's easy to fill free time with plans and activities as a way to feel accomplished. However, true rest might mean letting go of the need to constantly do something.
  3. The liminal space we find ourselves in during the holidays can spark reflection. It's a good time to think about what really matters to us and how we want to spend our time, even if that means not making plans at all.

Why These Christmas Songs Could Only Be Written in America

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3348 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Music Tradition Religion Celebration History
  1. Many famous Christmas songs, like 'Let It Snow!' and 'The Christmas Song', are not about religious themes but focus on winter, romance, and festive activities.
  2. These beloved songs were often written by Jewish Americans, blending their cultural influences into the music that celebrates Christmas in America.
  3. Even if someone doesn't celebrate Christmas, the music can still be enjoyed as a part of the holiday spirit and tradition.

Where the Magic Doesn’t Happen

After Babel • 3133 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Technology Education Faith Parenting Philosophy
  1. Technology can make personal development harder. Instead of helping kids grow and learn, instant access to things distracts them from meaningful experiences.
  2. Magic, or instant and effortless results, should not be in places where kids learn and grow. Schools, homes, and churches need to avoid tech that takes away from real relationships and hard work.
  3. Even a short break from screens can help families reconnect. When tech is removed, people quickly find joy in being together and engaging in real life.

The quiet place

Silentium • 639 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art Philosophy Literature Faith Wellness
  1. Silence can be a powerful tool for mental clarity. Taking time to be quiet can help us think better and feel more focused.
  2. Finding a 'quiet place' allows for personal reflection and relaxation. It's a chance to step away from the noise of everyday life.
  3. Creating silence in our lives can improve our overall well-being. It helps reduce stress and encourages a deeper connection with ourselves.