Common Sense with Bari Weiss $5 / month

Common Sense with Bari Weiss critiques contemporary issues impacting society from the perspectives of free speech, scientific inquiry, and cultural shifts. It explores themes around gender dysphoria, debate censorship, autism, personal values, public controversies, mental health, political correctness, scientific skepticism, cultural identity, historical context, and societal purpose.

Free Speech and Censorship Gender and Identity Education and Debate Health and Science Cultural and Social Issues Mental Health Politics and Public Opinion Historical and Cultural Identity Personal Values and Purpose Science and Skepticism

The hottest Substack posts of Common Sense with Bari Weiss

And their main takeaways
3561 implied HN points 18 Mar 24
  1. Stereotypes of extreme political views are tired, and real people mostly fall in the middle or are less extreme than caricatures suggest.
  2. Engaging in face-to-face conversations reveals that many individuals are not as hyper-partisan as media portrays, and they often seek kindness and unity over division.
  3. The majority of Americans may not fit neatly into extreme political categories, showing that there is a common desire for greater understanding and less polarization.
5467 implied HN points 14 Mar 24
  1. Female athletes are suing the NCAA over transgender athletes competing against them and using female locker rooms, claiming violations of Title IX.
  2. The lawsuit aims to change the rules so that biological males are ineligible to compete against female athletes, demanding awards be revoked from trans athletes and given to female contenders.
  3. The suit highlights concerns about gender inclusion in sports, citing the advantage biological males have over females even with hormone therapy, and questions the existing eligibility rules set by the NCAA.
3246 implied HN points 17 Mar 24
  1. Christopher Hitchens was known for his formidable skills as a public speaker and debater, with some believing he spoke better than he wrote.
  2. Hitch's reputation as a speaker was so esteemed that one should never speak before, with, or after him, according to advice given to Douglas Murray.
  3. Even before achieving peak celebrity status, Hitchens was recognized for his speaking prowess, particularly evident in his renowned book 'God Is Not Great.'
2040 implied HN points 19 Mar 24
  1. Google's new AI tool, Gemini, produced biased results in image searches, reflecting the larger issue of the company's culture prioritizing ideologies over excellence.
  2. Former Google employees, including high-profile individuals like Shaun Maguire, expressed concerns over Google's push for diversity, equity, and inclusion leading to compromises in quality and standards.
  3. The fallout from the Gemini AI debacle at Google highlighted the importance of balancing inclusivity with maintaining product quality and unbiased information for users.
3125 implied HN points 16 Mar 24
  1. D.A. Henderson, an epidemiologist, warned that pandemic lockdowns may not effectively stop a disease but could lead to severe public health consequences.
  2. Lockdowns during the pandemic caused disruptions in education, social development, mental health issues, domestic violence, and overdose deaths, highlighting the broader impacts of such measures.
  3. Public health should focus on not just stopping a disease but also consider the broader health of society, including targeted protection for the ill and medically vulnerable, to avoid harmful consequences of overreaction like societal shutdowns.
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3315 implied HN points 15 Mar 24
  1. Biden faced backlash for using the term 'illegal' but then claimed he didn't apologize: highlights the Biden administration's border philosophy and communication blunders.
  2. The Biden administration is releasing an additional $10 billion to Iran: shows the conflicting approaches within the administration's foreign policy.
  3. Elon Musk cancelled his partnership with Don Lemon on X/Twitter: illustrates that rich individuals like Musk don't take criticism well and can quickly change their minds.
4196 implied HN points 12 Mar 24
  1. The ordinary citizens of Israel demonstrated remarkable heroism and courage during times of tragedy and conflict, embodying a spirit of resilience and sacrifice.
  2. The harrowing events of October 7 in Israel served as a wake-up call about the reality of war and the importance of defending a free society.
  3. The experience in Israel prompts reflection on the universal themes of courage, sacrifice, and readiness to defend one's home and values, posing important questions about individual and societal responses to crisis.
3510 implied HN points 10 Mar 24
  1. Great speeches from famous orators have lasting impact, resonating with us across time.
  2. C.S. Lewis, a knowledgeable figure in human history, presents profound insights through his oratory skills.
  3. Learning from the wisdom and historical context of renowned speeches can enrich our understanding of the world.
7150 implied HN points 29 Feb 24
  1. To be free is to tell the truth even when surrounded by lies. Living in truth is a key aspect of freedom.
  2. To be free is to stand up for the freedom of others, while also safeguarding your own. It's about collective liberty and responsibility.
  3. To be free is to be courageous even when afraid. Embracing bravery in the face of fear is essential for staying true to your values and beliefs.
2290 implied HN points 13 Mar 24
  1. Jewish lawyers in a labor union faced hostility and abuse for supporting Israel, leading to a congressional investigation for antisemitism.
  2. Messages from the union's group chat included accusations against Israel of genocide, ethnic cleansing, and apartheid.
  3. The union resolution in support of a cease-fire in Gaza faced criticism for detracting from the main purpose of the union, which is to fight for workers' rights.
3241 implied HN points 08 Mar 24
  1. Biden successfully portrayed himself as strong and capable during the State of the Union address to counter perceptions of being old and feeble.
  2. MSNBC is reverting to fun and engaging programming, with discussions about Trump's physical appearance and the mockery of voters concerned about immigration.
  3. Voters are still concerned about Biden's age and there are ongoing discussions about Supreme Court decisions affecting Trump's presence on the ballot and the retirement of Justice Sotomayor.
4382 implied HN points 02 Mar 24
  1. Marshall McLuhan's insights into the impact of electric technology on society were ahead of his time, making him a visionary from the past.
  2. McLuhan believed that new electronic media changes the way people use their senses, affecting how they think and respond, leading to new identities and societal forms.
  3. Despite not being universally understood, McLuhan worked to empower people to understand and choose how they engage with technology in their lives.
6241 implied HN points 23 Feb 24
  1. There have been increased incidents of antisemitism and violence in London, causing safety concerns for Jewish schools and worshippers.
  2. The British Parliament faced a situation where fear of Islamist violence influenced decision-making, leading to deviations from parliamentary norms.
  3. The rise of Islamist extremism in Britain has created a pressing need for immediate and decisive action, including arrests and deportations of individuals inciting violence or religious hatred.
4609 implied HN points 27 Feb 24
  1. American kids are facing increasing mental health challenges despite being considered the most privileged generation, with a significant percentage considering suicide, indicating a worrisome trend.
  2. The focus on mental health by parents and schools may be inadvertently contributing to the rise in anxiety and depression among children, highlighting a possible correlation between therapy culture and the decline in youth mental well-being.
  3. The prevalence of 'bad therapy' practices, such as excessive emotional check-ins and emphasizing social-emotional learning over traditional academic subjects, is suggested to be exacerbating emotional distress in kids, showing a need for reevaluation of current approaches in schools.
2796 implied HN points 05 Mar 24
  1. The decision to go to a place of conflict can be a mix of practical concerns and emotional ties, but the desire to witness and understand can be a driving force.
  2. Meeting people face-to-face and being on the ground for reporting provides a depth and understanding that remote communication cannot match.
  3. Experiencing a war-torn region firsthand brings a deeper perspective on the impact and realities faced by those living in conflict zones.
1683 implied HN points 11 Mar 24
  1. Speculation about Michelle Obama entering the presidential race as an alternative to Joe Biden is circulating, but Michelle Obama has repeated she will not be running for president.
  2. Concerns are rising among Democratic insiders about President Biden's declining faculties and the need for a possible replacement before the next election.
  3. There's a complex dynamic between President Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, but a change in Israeli leadership may have to come from within, not due to external pressures.
4655 implied HN points 26 Feb 24
  1. Fentanyl, a potent and deadly drug, is causing a significant number of deaths among teenagers and young adults, often unknowingly consumed through counterfeit pills.
  2. Drug dealers are lacing various substances like pills, cocaine, and meth with fentanyl to increase their profits, leading to a rise in fatal overdoses.
  3. Children and teens need to be educated about the dangers of counterfeit drugs, as these fake pills can look identical to real medications, making it crucial to only take medications from doctors or pharmacists.
1252 implied HN points 13 Mar 24
  1. The House of Representatives is voting on legislation to force ByteDance to sell TikTok due to concerns over Chinese Communist Party control, leading to an unexpected political divide.
  2. The debate over cannabis legalization includes concerns about health risks associated with marijuana use, such as an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
  3. There are bipartisan efforts in the House to address the threat of foreign propaganda and data control by the Chinese Communist Party through TikTok, with legislators pushing for a forced sale of the platform.
1085 implied HN points 14 Mar 24
  1. Ron Hassner staged a sit-in protest in his UC Berkeley office to address rising campus Jew-hatred due to inaction by the administration.
  2. There was a violent incident at UC Berkeley involving pro-Israel and pro-Palestine groups, leading to campus tensions and fear among Jewish students.
  3. Hassner's demands to the university include keeping Sather Gate open, issuing apologies to disrupted speakers, and providing staff with Islamophobia and antisemitism training.
1507 implied HN points 10 Mar 24
  1. The Oscars ceremony might not be highly anticipated, but the lineup of movies competing for Best Picture is impressive.
  2. The movie 'American Fiction' provides a satirical take on identity politics in the context of a black writer's success with writing cliched storylines.
  3. In 'Oppenheimer,' director Christopher Nolan uses a unique structure to showcase the creation of the atomic bomb and the interplay of fusion and fission processes.
2508 implied HN points 04 Mar 24
  1. One in ten 2020 Biden voters now support Donald Trump, indicating trouble for Biden's reelection bid.
  2. Progressive places like San Francisco and Oregon are embracing law-and-order policies, signaling a shift towards 'common sense' approaches.
  3. Conservatives are gaining ground in political fights in deep-blue areas like Washington, D.C., New York, and California, reflecting a broader conservative backlash.
5597 implied HN points 17 Feb 24
  1. Navalny chose to return to Russia despite the risks, showing his dedication to his country and cause.
  2. Navalny's life and death highlight the stark contrast between the free world and the unfree world.
  3. Navalny's bravery and sacrifice echo those of other victims of Russian authoritarianism, emphasizing the importance of standing up for truth and freedom.
1729 implied HN points 07 Mar 24
  1. Matti Friedman is a well-known nonfiction writer, reporter, and columnist, whose work delves into Israeli history and identity.
  2. His song 'Canaan' captures the dark and existential realities of the ongoing war, challenging the notion of reaching a promised land and questioning the concept of homeland.
  3. Shaban's songs, like 'Canaan' and 'A Practice Run for Waking Up,' seem to foreshadow Israeli conflicts, evoking deep emotions for those directly involved in the war.
1827 implied HN points 06 Mar 24
  1. Traditional presidential debates may not happen, and even if they do, they often lack substantial discussion on important issues.
  2. The America Debates initiative by The Free Press aims to host live debates across the country on contentious topics like closing America's borders.
  3. Exclusive presale tickets for The America Debates are available to paid subscribers before opening to the general public.
1038 implied HN points 12 Mar 24
  1. The crisis at the southern border is causing more discord over what action to take.
  2. Immigration remains a top concern for voters in the upcoming presidential election, with a consensus that the system is broken.
  3. A live debate in Dallas on April 11 will feature discussions on shutting U.S borders, involving prominent figures in the domain.
4312 implied HN points 19 Feb 24
  1. The correspondence between Natan Sharansky and Alexei Navalny showcased their erudition, moral clarity, and humor - with Biblical references and insights into their experiences in prison.
  2. The letters highlighted the universal impact of standing up for freedom and the continuity of ideological struggles from the past to the present, offering hope for change despite challenges.
  3. Both Sharansky and Navalny shared a deep connection and admiration for each other's resilience, with humor and encouragement helping them find strength in the face of adversity.
3528 implied HN points 23 Feb 24
  1. President Biden faced criticisms regarding his communication style and response to questions, showcasing potential weaknesses in his public image.
  2. Donald Trump is engaging in unique marketing strategies by selling high-priced branded sneakers, stirring up reactions from the opposition party.
  3. Trump's legal issues, particularly a civil fraud trial in New York, demonstrate the complex intersection of legitimate legal concerns and potentially politically motivated prosecutions.
2453 implied HN points 29 Feb 24
  1. Violence should not be tolerated on college campuses as it undermines the principles of free speech and debate.
  2. Consequences must be implemented for those who engage in violent behavior or disrupt events on campus.
  3. Universities must actively defend free speech and academic freedom while maintaining zero tolerance for violence.
1623 implied HN points 05 Mar 24
  1. Americans in different states are showing disagreements with their party's approaches to social issues like pro-life legislation.
  2. There is a notable shift in American politics, with individuals reconsidering their party allegiance based on specific issues.
  3. Personal experiences and conflicts with political decisions are leading some voters to reevaluate their support for specific candidates.
1502 implied HN points 06 Mar 24
  1. Primary voters chose Trump and Biden, indicating a desire for a rematch, despite other challengers trying to offer alternatives.
  2. Nikki Haley's supporters continued to back her financially even when it became clear that her campaign wasn't successful, demonstrating loyalty and belief in her message.
  3. Across the Western world, new hate speech laws threaten freedom of speech, with Ireland, Canada, and Britain considering strict legislation.
6649 implied HN points 05 Feb 24
  1. Independent publications and individual testimonies have been instrumental in shedding light on the complexities of 'gender-affirming' care.
  2. The increase in lawsuits from young individuals highlights the significant consequences of life-altering treatments.
  3. Therapist Tamara Pietzke's experience reveals concerns about the current trend of 'affirmative care' for youth with gender dysphoria, urging a reevaluation of therapeutic approaches.
1307 implied HN points 07 Mar 24
  1. An activist group in California is paying public high schoolers to learn about social and racial justice, funded by taxpayers, causing controversy
  2. The Free Press is hosting live debates as an alternative to the traditional presidential debates, with the upcoming topic being whether America should close its borders
  3. The movie industry hopes 'Dune: Part Two' will revive Hollywood, but the film's success at the box office doesn't necessarily mean it will bring in a new era of actors with the same impact as previous stars
2587 implied HN points 25 Feb 24
  1. Aristotle identified three types of rhetorical appeals: ethos, logos, and pathos. Ethos focuses on the speaker's credibility.
  2. In a debate between James Baldwin and William F. Buckley, Baldwin's credibility and controlled mastery of his subject gave him a significant advantage.
  3. The civil rights movement context and Baldwin's strong rhetorical skills were key factors in his compelling argument.
4187 implied HN points 13 Feb 24
  1. Mosab Hassan Yousef, son of one of Hamas's founders, became an Israeli informant and helped prevent terror attacks, later converting to Christianity.
  2. Yousef has been vocal about the damage Hamas has caused to Palestinian society and the extreme hate-filled beliefs that fuel radical Islamic terrorism.
  3. Yousef's unique perspective, moral clarity, and firsthand experience make his insights important in understanding and combatting terrorist groups.
830 implied HN points 11 Mar 24
  1. Many Democrats believe Biden is doomed in the upcoming election due to his age and current polling numbers.
  2. There is a desire among some Democrats for an open convention to bring forth a younger and more dynamic nominee to lead the party.
  3. Several potential candidates, including governors and Senators, are being considered to replace Biden, with varying levels of enthusiasm and skepticism.
3292 implied HN points 18 Feb 24
  1. UATX, a new university founded by Pano Kanelos, has proven to be a real institution set to accept its inaugural class of students in 2024.
  2. Harvard economist Roland Fryer embodies academic excellence, emphasizing the pursuit of truth, admitting his mistakes, and overcoming obstacles.
  3. Fryer's life story showcases resilience, determination, and the importance of staying true to one's mission in the face of controversies and challenges.