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

Jews Are Being Told to Hide in Berlin. Again.

834 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
  1. Before the Nazis, Berlin had a large Jewish community known for its contributions to arts and sciences, but now it's much smaller. Only about 8,000 Jews live in Berlin today.
  2. Antisemitic incidents have sharply increased, with 1,270 reported in 2023, and many people feel unsafe in certain areas of the city.
  3. The police chief's advice to Jews and LGBTQ+ individuals to be cautious in some neighborhoods shifts the responsibility from protecting citizens to asking them to hide, which many find concerning.

What’s Left of My House

227 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
📰 News Current Events Disasters Journalism Local news
  1. Many houses on the street were completely destroyed by a fire, with only chimneys remaining.
  2. There were no emergency alerts sent out for the fire, which was surprising given how often we get alerts for other situations.
  3. The author, along with their dog, experienced a sense of disbelief and vulnerability during the chaos of the situation.

Why Does Pete Hegseth Keep Talking About ‘Warfighters’?

607 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Defense Government Military
  1. Pete Hegseth wants to change the Pentagon's culture to focus more on military effectiveness and less on political correctness. He believes this will improve how the military operates.
  2. He frequently uses the term 'warfighters' to describe the type of soldiers he aims to support. This suggests he sees them as effective combatants rather than just bureaucratic figures.
  3. Hegseth has publicly supported soldiers who have been accused or convicted of war crimes, which raises concerns among some of his Republican supporters about the implications of his leadership style.

The Five Things President Trump Should Do on Day One

1052 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
  1. The government systems aren't working well, with old technology and security issues. For example, the IRS still uses very outdated systems, and personal information like Social Security numbers are not safe.
  2. Hiring the right people is important for improving government efficiency. However, it's hard to get rid of underperforming employees and find good talent because of strict hiring rules.
  3. To make the government better, new strategies for hiring need to be used. This could include better ways to assess skills and more flexible hiring to bring in top talent.

The Guardian’s Retreat from the Battlefield of Ideas

908 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
  1. The Guardian has decided to stop posting on X, calling it a toxic platform. They believe that under Elon Musk's ownership, it shapes political discussion in a harmful way.
  2. Many users are leaving X for Bluesky, a platform that feels more like the old Twitter. Fans and public figures are joining in large numbers, showing widespread dissatisfaction with X.
  3. Some critics note that misinformation is still a problem for The Guardian, pointing out that they have been wrongly corrected on X. This highlights concerns about their bias and credibility.
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There’s Nothing More Corrupting Than Flying Private

681 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Corruption Elite Political Influence Travel Philanthropy
  1. Flying on a private plane can disconnect people from everyday experiences and reality. It's like stepping away from the human connection that comes with regular travel.
  2. Owning or using a private plane can change a person's behavior and priorities, leading to a loss of moral grounding.
  3. The associations and connections made through private travel, especially with controversial figures, can highlight deeper issues of influence and corruption in society.

Will Kash Patel Fix the FBI—or Break It?

677 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Media Political Figures Policy
  1. Kash Patel is seen as someone who wants to dismantle the FBI's current structure rather than just reform it. He has strong negative views on the 'deep state' and government officials.
  2. Patel has suggested bold actions, like turning the FBI headquarters into a museum to highlight the 'deep state'. He uses harsh language to describe those in power.
  3. He has also mentioned plans to pursue legal action against media figures he believes have lied or conspired against citizens, indicating a confrontational approach to his potential role.

Could a Trump Presidency Cost Columbia University $3.5 Billion?

1024 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
  1. Columbia University could lose up to $3.5 billion a year if it fails to address rule-breaking on campus. This is a lot of money, almost 55% of its total operating budget.
  2. The potential financial risks are tied to political tensions, especially between the university and Republican officials. They could threaten funding if they feel the university has violated civil rights laws.
  3. Investigations into antisemitism and anti-Muslim sentiment at Columbia could lead to significant funding loss, especially if federal grants are affected. This situation has become increasingly serious, prompting warnings from alumni groups.

Inside the Battle Over Trump’s Foreign Policy

987 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
  1. Three major conflicts are affecting global politics, including the war in Ukraine, tensions in the Middle East, and a political struggle in Washington over national security. This shows how interconnected international issues and domestic politics can be.
  2. Trump's upcoming second term is seeing debates among his inner circle about who should be on his national security team, with conflicting views about military involvement in global conflicts. The decisions he makes could greatly impact U.S. relations with allies and adversaries.
  3. Some Republican leaders are worried that Trump might favor political loyalists over experienced national security experts, which could lead to a less proactive U.S. foreign policy. It's important for him to balance loyalty and experience when building his administration.

They Tortured Him for Years. Now They Rule Syria.

454 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict International relations Terrorism Human Rights
  1. The new rulers of Syria, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have a history of violence and were once the captors of a journalist who endured severe torture at their hands.
  2. The group claims to have changed for the better and promises not to persecute anyone, but many are skeptical about their true intentions.
  3. Despite the regime's fall being celebrated by many, there are concerns about the brutal tactics of the rebel forces that now hold power.

Should You Even Have Kids?

913 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
  1. Choosing to have children is now a personal decision for many, with various reasons influencing their choices. These reasons include financial concerns, climate issues, and personal desires.
  2. Fertility rates are decreasing worldwide, which can have serious implications for the economy and future generations. For example, the U.S. fertility rate has dropped from 3 kids per woman in the 1950s to 1.6 today.
  3. The decision to have kids is part of broader cultural discussions and debates, reflecting individual values and societal trends. Different viewpoints exist about whether bringing more children into the world is responsible or beneficial.

WATCH: Inside Assad’s ‘Human Slaughterhouse’

477 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Authoritarianism Human Rights
  1. Sednaya prison is known for its extreme brutality and has become a symbol of the Assad regime's terror. Many Syrians are now searching for their loved ones who were imprisoned there.
  2. Survivor testimonies reveal horrific practices, like executions and inhumane treatment of prisoners. One former inmate describes hearing names called out before people were taken away never to return.
  3. Exclusive footage from inside Sednaya highlights the dark conditions and the emotional impact on those who survived and their families. The prison is often referred to as a human slaughterhouse.

Is Matt Gaetz’s Nomination Dead on Arrival?

779 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
  1. Matt Gaetz's nomination as attorney general is causing concern among some conservatives, who find him distasteful because of his past behavior and legal theories.
  2. Many Republican senators appear hesitant to support Gaetz due to ongoing ethics investigations and fears he won't be confirmed.
  3. Trump's push for Gaetz is complicating matters for Senate Republicans, as they try to navigate party loyalty while maintaining their constitutional authority.

Who Is the New MAGA Coalition?

871 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
  1. Many voters across different demographics are shifting their support to Trump, saying it reflects their dissatisfaction with the current Democratic leadership. It's not just one group but a mix of people, including young and traditionally Democratic voters.
  2. Some new Trump supporters express their feelings online, showing that they find common ground with his campaign. They appreciate the idea of a 'unity ticket' that includes diverse figures who oppose the current political norms.
  3. People like Kaizen Asiedu emphasize that their support for Trump is driven by a desire for tangible results and a perception of misinformation from the media. This change in opinion showcases how issues of leadership influence voter choices.

Kemi Badenoch’s Fight for the UK—and the West

459 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Identity politics Party Politics Economic Policy Immigration
  1. Kemi Badenoch made history as the first black woman to lead the UK's Conservative Party, showcasing her unique background and experiences.
  2. Growing up in Nigeria during tough economic times helped shape her views on wealth, community, and the importance of hard work to maintain society's values.
  3. Badenoch's journey to conservatism was influenced by her early jobs and educational experiences, fueling her desire to promote ambition and potential in others.

A Legal Showdown Over Press Freedom

723 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
  1. Journalists in America have unique freedoms, including the ability to publish secret government information. This is important for holding the government accountable.
  2. The case against journalist Catherine Herridge shows that these freedoms are currently at risk. She may face severe consequences for protecting her sources.
  3. The situation highlights the struggle between government secrecy and the need for transparency in journalism. It's crucial for reporters to access and share information that keeps the public informed.

Detained Americans Face Another Christmas in the Gulag

389 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Human Rights Criminal Justice
  1. Many Americans are wrongfully detained in foreign countries. Some of these individuals are being used as leverage by foreign governments.
  2. The U.S. government doesn't keep a clear list of detained Americans, making it hard to know how many are in this situation. Cases can vary, with some facing serious charges while others have experienced unfair treatment.
  3. High-profile cases, like Marc Fogel's, highlight the struggles families face while advocating for the release of their loved ones. Even with political support, many remain in difficult circumstances with no clear path to freedom.

Bari Weiss: What It Means to Choose Freedom

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.

Taking to the Streets with Georgia’s Pro-Western Protesters

380 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests Government International relations Civil Rights Law enforcement
  1. Protests in Georgia have been intense, with riot police using tear gas and water cannons against demonstrators. Many protesters are sharing stories of violence they faced from law enforcement.
  2. The protests started after the Georgian Prime Minister announced that the country wouldn't seek EU membership until 2028, which angered those who support a pro-Western path.
  3. Activists and protestors are facing severe police crackdowns, with reports of arrests and assaults, signaling a tough stance from the government against dissent.

Meet the People of Trump World 2.0

737 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
  1. Donald Trump will soon be back in the White House, and he's surrounded by a team of people who will help him run the country. They'll have various roles, from official staff to trusted advisors.
  2. Elon Musk is expected to play a significant part in the Trump administration, focusing on government efficiency while also influencing policies related to China.
  3. Tucker Carlson is likely to have a strong voice in shaping the new administration, using his media platform to connect with Trump's base and guide decisions.

The Missing Boy Who Captured America’s Heart

714 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
  1. A boy named Donn Fendler got lost on Mount Katahdin in 1939 and survived for nine days alone in the wild. He used his scouting skills to find his way back home.
  2. Donn's incredible survival story captured the attention of the nation at the time and demonstrated the importance of community support during a crisis.
  3. His journey shows that having faith in oneself can lead to amazing outcomes, as he believed strongly he would survive and even brought back a rock for his mother.

A Holy Night in Bethlehem

250 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religious practices Pilgrimage Cultural Traditions
  1. The ongoing conflict in the region is affecting the Christmas spirit in Bethlehem, leading to a lack of festive decorations and celebrations.
  2. Pope Francis opened a holy year of pilgrimage with the theme of hope, especially important for those affected by the violence.
  3. The experience of flying to Israel is complicated and emotional, with reminders of the conflict seen right from the airport.

What Really Happened to George Floyd?

7776 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
📰 News Crime Journalism Documentary Trial Narrative
  1. A new documentary challenges key parts of the George Floyd story: the knee-on-the-neck hold as Chauvin's signature move, asphyxiation as the cause of death, and whether Chauvin received a fair trial.
  2. The full footage of the incident shows more context than the viral clip - officers had tried to place Floyd in the squad car and Chauvin's knee was not on Floyd's neck for as long as widely believed.
  3. Chauvin's criminal trial presented an opportunity to reassess the evidence and public opinion, with the prosecution having to prove Chauvin's actions constituted assault and caused Floyd's death.

Are ‘Islamists in Charge of Britain’?

6241 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Antisemitism Democracy Extremism
  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.

I Was Told to Approve All Teen Gender Transitions. I Refused.

6649 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Therapy Gender Dysphoria Mental health
  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.

EXCLUSIVE: Female Athletes Sue NCAA Over Transgender Competitors in Sports

5467 implied HN points • 14 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Equality Legal issues Sports Lawsuit
  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.

MLK’s Former Speechwriter: ‘We Are Trying to Save the Soul of America’

7169 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Race relations Civil Rights Movement Activism Equality Social justice
  1. Clarence Jones had a close relationship with Martin Luther King Jr. and was able to write speeches that perfectly captured King's voice and tone.
  2. Jones believes that the messages of Martin Luther King Jr., including radical nonviolence and building alliances across ethnic lines, have been forgotten in America.
  3. Jones played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement by fundraising, helping with King's speeches, and forming alliances, emphasizing the importance of coalition support, especially from the American Jewish community.

Alexei Navalny Lived and Died in Truth

5597 implied HN points • 17 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Heroes Freedom
  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.

The Russian Draft Dodgers Who Fled to Paradise

366 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🌐 International Conflict Immigration Culture Travel Geopolitics
  1. Many Russians are escaping to places like Bali to avoid military drafts and the war. They enjoy a cheaper lifestyle and beautiful surroundings.
  2. Despite their new paradise, some locals in Bali are frustrated with Russian tourists due to bad behavior, which has them on edge.
  3. Not all Russians are focusing on leisure; some, like influencers, share their experiences and concerns about the changing community.

The MAGA Civil War Over H-1B Visas

180 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Political Discourse Identity politics Policy Analysis
  1. The H-1B visa program allows U.S. companies to hire skilled workers from abroad, mainly benefiting tech companies that want to pay lower wages. It has become a point of conflict within the MAGA movement.
  2. Supporters of the program argue that it helps bring in talented workers that American companies need. However, critics say it creates a system that exploits workers and harms American wages.
  3. The debate over H-1B visas has highlighted deeper divisions in the right, between those who support immigration as part of America's identity and those who view it through a lens of racism and protectionism.

Americans Just Said No to Drugs

533 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
  1. Many voters rejected drug legalization in states like Florida and Massachusetts, despite strong campaigns. This shows a shift in public opinion about drugs.
  2. Past perceptions of drug legalization as a positive change are changing, as people are noticing negative social impacts. These include car accidents and increases in public disorder.
  3. While many states have legalized marijuana in recent years, voters might be becoming more aware of the real consequences that come with those choices.

The Curious Case of Luigi Mangione

296 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Crime Law Public Safety Gun Control Health Policy
  1. Luigi Mangione was caught after a customer at McDonald's recognized him following the murder of UnitedHealthcare's CEO. It's surprising that someone like him could be involved in such a serious crime.
  2. He had a 3D-printed gun and a handwritten manifesto when he was arrested. This raises questions about his motives and planning.
  3. The case has turned people into amateur detectives as they tried to follow the story. It shows how we are often drawn into real-life mysteries.

The Great American Acid Trip

440 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
  1. In the 1960s, Allen Ginsberg believed that trying LSD could help heal America's social issues and bring people together. He thought it could show us a new sense of purpose beyond our usual lives.
  2. Rick Doblin, the founder of MAPS, is working to make psychedelics more accessible, thinking they can help with trauma and improve lives by 2070.
  3. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. supports the use of psychedelics and wants to legalize them as part of a broader health initiative. He aims to free these drugs from pharmaceutical suppression.

What Made Ted Olson Great

491 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
  1. Ted Olson was known as a top lawyer, winning many important cases, including ones for the Supreme Court. He had an impressive career with significant influence in legal circles.
  2. Despite his numerous victories, what stood out most about him was his integrity. He was dedicated to the values of the Constitution and what America stands for.
  3. Olson's commitment to his beliefs was deeply personal, especially after the loss of his wife in a tragic event. His integrity and devotion shaped how he approached his work and life.

Fentanyl Is Killing American Kids. Most Don’t Even Know They’re Taking It.

4655 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Prevention Education
  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.

How Bad Therapy Hijacked Our Nation’s Schools

4609 implied HN points • 27 Feb 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Therapy Schools Children Education
  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.

Meet the Women with AI Boyfriends

468 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
  1. Some people are forming emotional connections with AI chatbots, like a long-distance relationship. Even though these chats aren't real, they can feel comforting and enjoyable.
  2. Women may actually be the primary users of AI companions, looking for someone to talk to and feel understood. Unlike men, who often focus on the visuals, women value emotional connection with chatbots.
  3. These AI chats can serve as a safe space for those who’ve had tough romantic experiences. They allow users to explore companionship without the complications of real relationships.