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Culture Study explores societal norms, personal experiences, and the impact of technology on daily life through a critical lens. Topics range from home ownership pressures and the #TradWife phenomenon to burnout and the portrayal of gender in media, often focusing on the intersection of culture and identity.

Society and Culture Technology and Lifestyle Gender and Identity Media and Entertainment Work-Life Balance Social Media Trends Personal Development

The hottest Substack posts of Culture Study

And their main takeaways

An Overstuffed Summer Bouquet of Links & Recs

1564 implied HN points • 06 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Travel Art Food Politics Literature
  1. Traveling can expose us to the beauty of different cultures and histories. It helps us appreciate the world while also reflecting on the struggles that exist within it.
  2. It's important to find joy and hope even in tough times. Balancing happy moments with the reality of current events can be challenging but necessary.
  3. Supporting public art and education is crucial. Many people are advocating for change and ways to help those in need, highlighting our ability to work together for good.

No Really, How Do We Fund the Art We Care About *Right Now*?

1923 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
  1. Public art is important for everyone, and communities without it can feel lifeless. We need art that challenges us, not just what everyone finds pleasant.
  2. Funding for the arts is decreasing, both from public and private sources. Many organizations struggle to survive, and artists often rely on community support or personal funding.
  3. Direct community funding efforts, like donations or grassroots events, show that people can support the arts effectively without traditional grant systems. This approach can lead to vibrant and meaningful cultural events.

An Obituary for Reading the Internet

6591 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
  1. People used to spend time reading curated content online, exploring various articles and blogs, rather than just scrolling through social media. This made reading the internet more intentional and focused.
  2. The introduction of tools like Pocket helped users save articles for later and maintain a richer reading experience. It allowed people to engage with long-form journalism and thoughtful pieces more easily.
  3. The shift towards fast, scrollable content has changed how we consume information, leading to more skimming and less deep reading. Many miss the days when the internet encouraged thoughtful engagement rather than quick consumption.

What To Make When It's Too Hot To Cook

1590 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25
  1. When it's really hot, cooking can be a chore. It's good to have simple, no-cook meal ideas ready.
  2. Think about fresh salads and sandwiches that are easy to prepare. These can be light and refreshing options during the heat.
  3. Having recipes that don’t require using the oven helps keep your kitchen cool and makes meal prep quicker.

The Cost of Being Undocumented

2526 implied HN points • 29 Jun 25
  1. Living without citizenship in the U.S. is really hard and creates a lot of fear. People often have to choose between staying in dangerous situations or facing uncertainty in a new place.
  2. Undocumented workers support the economy but are often exploited because they lack legal protections. They have to navigate unfair job conditions and low pay while managing a lot of stress.
  3. It's important to remember that undocumented people are not just numbers or workers; they have hopes, dreams, and lives. We need to advocate for their humanity and support reform that acknowledges their experiences.
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Friday Thread: How Are You Reinventing What You Do For Work?

1436 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
  1. Reinventing work is important when funding and support change, like with job loss. It's a chance to adapt skills and find new opportunities.
  2. Creative thinking can help in figuring out how to pivot your career and make the most of what's available.
  3. Change can be challenging, but embracing it opens doors to new paths and experiences.

The Dress Designer Who Gave Women Pockets — And So Much More

2911 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
  1. Claire McCardell was a fashion designer who focused on creating practical clothing for women, making style comfortable and functional. She understood that clothes should fit the lives women actually lead.
  2. McCardell innovated many items like the popover dress and ballet flats, which emphasized practicality while being stylish. She fought for features like pockets, believing they were important for women’s autonomy and comfort.
  3. Her approach to fashion was about empowerment and self-expression, encouraging women to choose clothes that worked for them instead of following strict trends. McCardell's legacy influences modern discussions about clothing and personal freedom.

Tuesday Thread: What Are You Watching? (In June)

1013 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
  1. Summer is a time to enjoy reading and relaxing, often by sleeping with windows open to savor the warm nights.
  2. The long daylight hours in summer create a perfect atmosphere for evening reading and winding down.
  3. Even with a busy summer schedule, it’s possible to make time to watch interesting content, like special shows or movies.

Friday Thread: Big Birthday Feelings

1282 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
  1. Many people really enjoy celebrating their birthdays and have unique traditions. It's a time to feel special and have fun with friends and family.
  2. Birthdays can bring up big feelings, both positive and negative, as they mark time passing in our lives. Reflecting on these feelings can help us understand ourselves better.
  3. Celebrating birthdays can change over time, as priorities and feelings about the day evolve. What was once a big deal may become more low-key as we grow up.

This is How We Fall Out of Love with the World

12118 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Society Politics Education Work
  1. Art and essential services matter, but they often lack sufficient public funding in America. Many believe value only comes from profit, which overlooks the importance of community support.
  2. Cuts to public services mean that everyday Americans are forced to shoulder more costs. This creates a fragile system that risks collapse during tough times, like the pandemic.
  3. Passion jobs, where people work for love rather than money, are at risk as public funding declines. This leads to burnout and instability for those who dedicate themselves to these important roles in society.

This is How Much America Still Hates Women

28623 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Gender Issues Political Commentary Social justice Civil Rights
  1. Many people in America still prefer male leaders, even if they are not competent, over qualified women. This shows a deep-rooted bias against women in politics.
  2. There is a troubling belief that women's bodies should be controlled by the state, often with men making those decisions. This reflects a dangerous mindset about women's rights and lives.
  3. Despite feeling defeated, it's important to keep fighting for a better future. Our determination and faith in change can drive progress, even in difficult times.

The Social Media Sea Change

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

Who Else Is Feeling This In Their Body

9438 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Essays Personal Resilience Wellness Mental health
  1. It's important to take your own feelings seriously, as well as the feelings of others. We often avoid acknowledging our true emotions.
  2. Resilience can mean carrying a lot of emotional and physical weight without realizing it. We need to recognize how it affects our bodies.
  3. Sometimes we create excuses for our struggles instead of facing them. Understanding what we feel can help us cope better.

Posting Less

11413 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Social media Digital Life Self-Expression Generational Trends
  1. Many people are feeling tired of posting on social media because the online environment has become more hostile and less rewarding. It's starting to feel like it takes more energy than it's worth.
  2. As social media platforms change, people are reconsidering how they share their lives. They want to avoid negativity and are opting for smaller, more private circles for sharing.
  3. There's a big difference between feeling seen online and actually being seen in real life. Real connection and vulnerability are harder to achieve on social media.

The Loneliest Decades of Our Lives

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

American Bulk

5514 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Consumerism Body Image Family Dynamics Mental health Identity
  1. Bulk shopping reflects a deep cultural connection to abundance in America. It's not just about getting what you need; it's tied to feelings of security and desire.
  2. Family dynamics and personal histories impact our relationship with stuff. Experiences with parents and grandparents can shape how we view consuming and accumulating items.
  3. There are complexities in how we handle issues of body image and weight. Personal acceptance is often mixed with societal pressures, and it's okay to feel conflicting emotions about it.

The Case Against Budget Culture

6348 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Cultural critique Social norms Consumer behavior
  1. Budget culture often promotes greed and shame about money rather than a healthy relationship with it. Instead of feeling restricted, it’s better to think of money as a tool for living well.
  2. Many people see budgeting as a way to gain control over their finances. However, this mindset can restrict your personal choices and lead to feelings of inadequacy.
  3. Community and generosity should be prioritized over individual wealth accumulation. Sharing resources can foster a supportive environment that reduces financial stress for everyone.

Blake Lively Reshoots the End of Her Story

5988 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Celebrity Gossip Media Social media Entertainment
  1. Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni became part of a media storm over their movie 'It Ends With Us'. Each accused the other of bad behavior on set, shaping how people saw them, especially online.
  2. TikTok has a huge influence on how celebrities are perceived today. Unlike traditional media, TikTok users create narratives that can quickly spread and affect a celebrity's image.
  3. The power of publicity in Hollywood is shifting. Celebrities can now use social media to shape their narratives, but they can also fall victim to online campaigns that expose their flaws, as seen with Lively.

How We Decide Where To Build Our Lives

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

A New Kind of Forensics

3847 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social Issues History Gender Studies Forensics Media
  1. Marty Goddard played a key role in creating the rape kit, which helped provide evidence of sexual assault. This changed how incidents were taken seriously in the legal system.
  2. The history of the rape kit shows that many women were not believed when they reported assaults. It highlights a culture that often dismissed survivors.
  3. This story also reveals how women's contributions can be overlooked in innovation. Even when they create important tools, men often get the credit.

How I Write Culture Study

3885 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Essays Podcasts Writing Organization
  1. Organizing your week can help you manage different types of work like essays and Q&As. It’s about finding a balance and creating a routine.
  2. Creating interesting content often involves a bit of mystery or curiosity. This can lead people to appreciate and pay for the material you offer.
  3. Collaboration with others can enhance your work. Finding 'coworkers' or partners can support your creative process and make things more enjoyable.

Ask a Divorced Person (in 2025)

2795 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Relationships Divorce Parenting Mental health Social Dynamics
  1. Divorce can be a positive step for people in unhealthy relationships. It can bring freedom and greatly improve overall happiness.
  2. It's normal to feel guilty and uncertain about wanting a divorce, but it's important to prioritize your own happiness and well-being.
  3. Communication about feelings and the state of a relationship is key. Talking openly with a partner can help clarify whether to stay or leave.

A Cozy Winter Storm of Recs & Links

3411 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Food Literature Lifestyle Gossip Health
  1. Winter can bring beautiful but cold weather, which many might find refreshing compared to the usual grey skies. It can feel like a gift to experience clear days and chilly air.
  2. There's a cozy mix of recommendations in the post, including recipes, books, and fun insights into pop culture. These can offer enjoyment and distraction during tough times.
  3. It's important to check your email settings for newsletters, as sometimes they may not reach your inbox. This way, you won’t miss out on content you want to read.

The Secret to a Hobby-Filled Life

7579 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Hobbies Leisure Lifestyle Self-care Well-being
  1. Having a hobby is great for your mental health and helps you relax. It lets you take a break from work and feel restored.
  2. Starting a hobby as an adult can be tough and might feel forced at first. It's important to find something that feels natural and enjoyable for you.
  3. People often struggle with how to spend their free time between self-care and family obligations. It's okay to take time for yourself and explore hobbies without pressure.

Friday Thread: Later Loves

3244 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Relationships Personal Stories Aging Experiences
  1. Life is long, and there are many chances to find love at different stages. People can experience deep connections even after major life changes.
  2. It's refreshing to step away from society's relationship expectations. This freedom allows individuals to explore love on their own terms.
  3. Hearing stories about second and third loves can be inspiring for those in later life. It shows that love can come in many forms and at any age.

One Gift Guide to Rule Them All

5142 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Fashion Community Traditions
  1. This year, there's a goal to help those in need by raising funds for beds, bikes, and other essentials for refugees. It's all about making a difference as a group.
  2. Buying gifts from small businesses can feel more meaningful than shopping at big stores during the holiday rush. It can help support local shops that rely on December sales.
  3. The focus of gift-giving should be on thoughtful purchases rather than just getting a bargain. It's better to find one special item that feels right than to buy a lot of stuff just because it's on sale.

What I'm Reading, Post-Election

6104 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Reflection Social Issues Politics Identity
  1. Reading helps process complex feelings. It doesn't mean you agree, but it can spark important thoughts and emotions.
  2. Misogyny and economic issues are intertwined in politics. Many voters may prioritize financial gain over women's health and safety.
  3. The political landscape is tough and complex. People can engage with issues that matter to them without needing to fix everything at once.

Advice Time! Advice Time!

2988 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Community Advice Relationships Parenting Mental health
  1. Joining a community can really help lift your spirits. It's nice to feel cared for and connected to others.
  2. You can ask for help on any topic, big or small. People love to share their thoughts and advice from their own experiences.
  3. Helping others is just as important as getting help. Be ready to give advice too, and keep the conversation going.

How to Show Up For Your Friends Without Kids — and How to Show Up For Kids and Their Parents

5719 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Community Relationships Parenting Self-care Social norms
  1. Many people feel left out or lonely, regardless of their life situation. It's important to remember that everyone has their own struggles and we should support each other instead of comparing who's worse off.
  2. People want and need help, but often don’t ask for it. We need to communicate better about how we can support each other in our daily lives.
  3. Building and maintaining friendships takes effort and can be messy. Sometimes it's not fun, but it's valuable because it helps us feel connected and cared for.

How to Be a Joiner

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 Fascinating (and Surprising) History of Women Drivers

2026 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Gender Studies Consumer Culture Marketing Strategies Social Change
  1. Women drivers have a rich history that challenges common stereotypes about them. Early ads showed women as capable and independent drivers, but this changed over time, leading to gendered marketing that focused on appearance rather than usability.
  2. Market research played a key role in shaping how car companies viewed and communicated with female consumers. Many studies failed to accurately reflect women's interests and preferences, often focusing on superficial traits instead of their real needs.
  3. Over the years, women have shifted from being sidelined in automotive culture to actively sharing automotive knowledge and experiences. This change was influenced by feminist movements that encouraged women to take charge of their own narratives and seek information.

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

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.

I'm Just So Mad

5334 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Rights Policies Democracy Society
  1. It's exhausting to have to fight for rights that were already yours. It feels frustrating when you work hard to restore what should never have been taken away.
  2. Feeling disconnected from democracy can be really difficult. Knowing the outcomes of political situations can make you feel flat and unenthusiastic.
  3. There’s a lot of work to be done to support those affected by harmful policies. It’s important to recognize the effort needed to protect vulnerable communities.

Welcome to Dinner Music

2154 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Music Media Art Lifestyle Social Trends
  1. Algorithms can make discovering new music really hard. They often push mediocre songs and make us passive listeners, which takes away the joy of finding something special.
  2. Creating playlists can be like telling a story. A good playlist has a flow and evokes feelings, unlike algorithm-generated ones that can feel random and uncreative.
  3. Having more music in your life can improve your mood and spark creativity. It’s important to be intentional about listening and to enjoy music in social settings with friends.

A Culture Study Mirror

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.

How to Help People in LA *Right Now*

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.

What Are You Reading (in February)???

1795 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Books Reading Media Podcast
  1. People often look for comfort in books during tough times, especially in February's cold and dark days.
  2. Readers are encouraged to share their current reads, which can lead to discovering new and interesting titles.
  3. Keeping discussions positive and respectful creates a welcoming environment for sharing book recommendations.

A Calming Low Winter Sky of Links & Recs

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.

Tuesday Thread: The Best Corners of Reddit

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