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

I Thought I Was Saving Trans Kids. Now I’m Blowing the Whistle.

10053 implied HN points • 09 Feb 23
  1. The way American medical system treats gender dysphoric patients may cause permanent harm instead of helping them.
  2. The increasing number of teenagers seeking gender transition includes girls with no prior history of gender distress.
  3. Youth gender transition clinics may be lacking formal protocols, leading to hasty treatments with long-term consequences.

Why Asian Americans Are Moving Right

236 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
  1. Asian Americans are increasingly voting for Republicans, showing a shift in political loyalty. This change is different from past trends where they mostly supported Democrats.
  2. Exit polls indicated a 5-point shift to the right among Asian American voters since 2020, with significant shifts observed in certain states like Nevada and Texas.
  3. Voting data from specific precincts showed even larger shifts, with some areas witnessing a change of over 30 percentage points towards Republican candidates.
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The Backlash in Deep-Blue America

2508 implied HN points • 04 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policies Candidates Polls
  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.

The Trouble with ‘Murder at the End of the World’

3083 implied HN points • 20 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Feminism Literature Social Commentary
  1. In the show _A Murder at the End of the World_, the protagonist Darby Hart stands out as an unexpected detective due to her age and gender.
  2. The series aims to deliver feminist messages and social commentary, but some viewers find it heavy-handed and lacking originality.
  3. The portrayal of Darby as a young, attractive amateur detective solving a mystery challenges traditional crime genre conventions, but some viewers question the believability and depth of her character.

Things Worth Remembering: ‘I Built the Railroads Under Someone Else’s Whip’

2587 implied HN points • 25 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Speeches
  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.

Things Worth Remembering: The Woman Who Captured Russia’s Pain

2949 implied HN points • 28 Jan 24
💾 History World War II Cold War
  1. The historiography of World War II has shifted to highlight the significant sacrifice on the Eastern front, bringing a more balanced perspective to the contributions of all parties involved.
  2. The opening and closure of Russian archives in the 1990s, along with the translation of Vasily Grossman's works, helped reveal the full extent of the Russian sacrifice during the war.
  3. Russian artists played a crucial role in recording and reflecting the Soviet experience during the Second World War, preserving a vital part of history.

If Berkeley Wants to Protect Free Speech It Will Expel Its Rioters

2453 implied HN points • 29 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Violence Academic Freedom Civil Discourse
  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.

Union Lawyers Call Jewish Colleagues ‘Deranged’ and ‘Fascist’

2290 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Labor relations Antisemitism
  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.

Welcome to the MAGA Hamptons!

5713 implied HN points • 19 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Politics Social Issues Media
  1. Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri is a popular summer destination for the affluent from Midwest cities.
  2. The region around Lake of the Ozarks represents a shift away from traditional coastal elite culture.
  3. The atmosphere at Lake of the Ozarks is all about fun, relaxation, and a rejection of mainstream cultural norms.

My Family Was Hunted by Nazis. But I Was Fired After ‘Defending Hitler.’

5499 implied HN points • 26 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Journalism Social media Political Extremism Discourse Freedom of Speech
  1. The author was fired from their job at _The Seattle Times_ after a Twitter post comparing Lenin and Hitler, leading to accusations of defending Hitler.
  2. The author's work as a journalist focused on stories of structural oppression in Asia, including sexism and neo-Nazi trends, driven by personal family history.
  3. The situation highlights the challenges of engaging in divisive discussions online and the impact of social media controversies on personal and professional life.

Amanda Knox: Watching Gypsy Rose

2916 implied HN points • 13 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture True Crime
  1. Gypsy Rose Blanchard's case has become a huge industry in the true crime world.
  2. Clauddine "Dee Dee" Blanchard, the mother of Gypsy Rose, faced significant consequences.
  3. There is popular subscription-based content available on this topic.

Coleman Hughes on the New Racism

2517 implied HN points • 13 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Race Leadership International relations
  1. Coleman Hughes advocates for a return to color-blind ideals in addressing race issues, which contrasts with current prominent black intellectuals.
  2. President Biden is facing concerns about his age and capability to run for a second term, with a high percentage perceiving him as too old for the role.
  3. There are proposals for encouraging newer and better Palestinian leadership, especially in Gaza, by ensuring reconstruction aid is channeled effectively and used to empower a new elite.

Letters to the Editor: ‘I’ve Watched Someone I Love Die’

148 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Debate Health Ethics Policy Society
  1. Assisted suicide laws are controversial, with concerns about vulnerable people feeling pressured to end their lives. Some argue that these laws exist to provide relief for those suffering from severe, painful illnesses.
  2. People often request help to end their suffering, and without legal options, doctors and families face tough choices. The law aims to provide a more humane way to help those at the end of life find peace.
  3. Legalizing psychedelics like MDMA is not just about recreation; it's about addressing serious mental health issues and potentially saving lives, particularly for veterans suffering from PTSD.

Things Worth Remembering: The Art of Nostalgia

2810 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
📚 Literature Poetry Nostalgia Art
  1. It's common for people to look back nostalgically, especially during difficult times, but it's important to be wary of falling into the nostalgia trap by selectively remembering only the good.
  2. Resisting the nostalgia trap becomes even more challenging when reflecting on one's childhood or early adulthood.
  3. Philip Larkin's ability to find special meaning in the past and turn it into art highlights the value of interpreting our memories creatively.

Google’s Woke AI Wasn’t a Mistake. We Know. We Were There.

2040 implied HN points • 19 Mar 24
💼 Business Corporate culture Diversity Bias Tech industry
  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.

Free Press Investigations Get Results

2735 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Gaza Conflict Foreign influence Academic Freedom
  1. DEI initiatives are being scaled back and in some cases shut down in various states, leading to significant reform efforts in higher education
  2. An imam in Gaza who was kidnapped by Hamas was successfully released due to public pressure and challenges to Hamas' legitimacy
  3. A New York City school apologized for removing Israel from a map, sparking discussions on bias, hate, antisemitism, and foreign influence in education

All Immigrants Are Born on the Fourth of July

5513 implied HN points • 04 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture History Immigration Citizenship Freedom
  1. American exceptionalism is real, unique, and tied to the country's history of freedom and individual freedom.
  2. Key historical figures like Washington, Lincoln, and MLK embodied American exceptionalism through their actions and beliefs.
  3. The American experience embraces freedom, innovation, and the pursuit of possibilities, shaping a sense of identity among immigrants and citizens.

The Truth About Banned Books

2694 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education
  1. The issue of book bans in schools is more complex than portrayed by the media, with concerns of one-sided narratives rather than outright bans being highlighted.
  2. School libraries in the US often lack books offering diverse viewpoints, with higher availability of books promoting progressive ideas compared to conservative ones.
  3. Access to a variety of viewpoints is crucial for fostering critical thinking and understanding different perspectives among students, helping bridge societal divides.

The Assassin’s Veto

2448 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Assassination Public Figures Royal Family Threats Speech
  1. Public figures face serious threats from extremists, leading to a chilling effect on free speech.
  2. President Biden seems too busy to engage in debates, raising questions about his approach to media interaction.
  3. Investing in education should prioritize core skills like reading and math, rather than controversial ideologies.

The Fall of Meghan and Harry, Inc.

5541 implied HN points • 29 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Royalty Entertainment Media Podcasts Celebrity
  1. People around the world fell in love with Meghan Markle when she got engaged to Prince Harry six years ago.
  2. The couple initially won over public opinion with their fairytale wedding and choice to break royal norms, but popularity has plummeted due to perceived laziness and snobbish behavior.
  3. Meghan and Harry's downfall can be attributed to their pursuit of huge financial deals and a lack of perceived hard work or genuine connection with the public.

Meet the People of Trump World 2.0

227 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
  1. Elon Musk is expected to have a big role in Trump's new government, focusing on efficiency and policy, especially regarding China.
  2. Don Jr. has proven to be a strong supporter and advisor, but Trump may not give him an official role this time around.
  3. Many people surrounding Trump will influence his decisions and help shape the country during his next term.

A New York School Wipes Israel off the Map. Chris Christie’s Hot-Mic Dropout. Intergenerational Fight Club.

2596 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Antisemitism Presidential Election Air Travel
  1. Teaching kids about different cultures must be done carefully to avoid misinformation or biases.
  2. Generational gaps and misunderstandings exist, but it's important to acknowledge the unique qualities and challenges of each generation.
  3. Misinformation and sensationalism can quickly lead to harmful stereotypes and fuel conspiracy theories, highlighting the importance of responsible reporting.

Gen Z’s Sexual Apocalypse. The Case for Marriage. And: Is It Time to Ditch the Apps?

2207 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Dating Relationships Marriage Gender Dynamics Self-Improvement
  1. There is a growing political divide between young men veering right and women leaning left, complicating dating and relationships.
  2. Consider ditching dating apps and try more traditional methods like asking for setups from friends or striking conversations in real life.
  3. Getting married can lead to a happier, more prosperous, and more meaningful life, despite common myths about relationships and career choices.

Rob Henderson: The Three Adults Who Abandoned Me

2147 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Memoir Social Issues Childhood Trauma
  1. Rob Henderson's life story, from abandonment to academic success, has deeply influenced his insights on social issues like class and culture.
  2. Luxury beliefs are ideas that confer status on the upper class and can negatively impact the lower classes, according to Henderson's observations.
  3. Henderson's journey from a troubled childhood to academic achievement sheds light on the challenges faced by those in foster care and the importance of education in breaking such cycles.

Carole Hooven: Why I Left Harvard

2504 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🚌 Education Free speech Academic Freedom Higher education
  1. Challenges to free speech on college campuses are exemplified by instances where individuals are penalized for opposing campus orthodoxy or stating scientific views that contradict prevailing beliefs.
  2. Higher education institutions often prioritize Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, which, while aiming for inclusivity, may inadvertently stifle viewpoint diversity and open debate, hindering the essence of thriving educational environments.
  3. The importance of ensuring a balance between promoting diversity and maintaining free speech is highlighted through personal experiences, illustrating the impact of DEI culture on academic freedom and the need for universities to re-establish environments supportive of open dialogue and diverse perspectives.

One Hundred Days of War

2522 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Israel-Palestine conflict Antisemitism
  1. The events of October 7 and the aftermath have led to a shift in understanding and perspectives for many individuals.
  2. The war in Gaza has served as a deeper reflection of civilizational fault lines, making the conflicts feel existential and fundamentally challenging previous ideologies.
  3. The silence and lack of action from certain groups regarding the atrocities during the war highlight a collapse of universal principles and a tendency towards 'us vs. them' mentalities.

Trump Wins Bigly in Iowa. Fentanyl for Minors in Canada. And, Is the Golden Age of TV Over?

2457 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Media Social Issues Legislation
  1. Donald Trump set a new record for the largest margin of victory by a Republican in Iowa caucus history, with a lead of nearly 30 points over his closest competitors
  2. The divide between college-educated and working-class voters is a significant factor in American politics, causing fractures in both the Republican and Democratic parties
  3. Ron DeSantis faced challenges in the Iowa caucus, showing that embodying a political agenda and connecting with voters is more important than competence or experience

It’s Over, and It’s Trump

2364 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Government Media Justice Entertainment
  1. Nikki Haley's campaign faces challenges after falling short in New Hampshire, signaling potential struggles ahead.
  2. Trump's resurgence in popularity and the GOP's lack of understanding contribute to his strong position for the 2024 presidential race.
  3. New poll data shows immigration as a top voter concern, impacting President Biden's favorability ratings.

NYU Professor Tells Students of Hamas Atrocities: ‘We Know It’s Not True’

2351 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. U.S. troops are facing attacks from groups backed by Iran, showing a disconnect between official statements and the reality on the ground, leading to responses like airstrikes targeting Iranian-backed militias.
  2. Investigation shows bias in school libraries with a focus on progressive books, prompting debate on offering a balanced selection that includes different political perspectives.
  3. Antisemitism is on the rise, highlighted by instances like a NYU professor praising Hamas, emphasizing the importance of education and remembrance to combat Holocaust denial and distortion.

Things Worth Remembering: Breaking Bread with the Dead

2207 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
📚 Literature Poetry Authors Reading
  1. Seamus Heaney had a remarkable ability to extract deep meanings from poetry with his intricate analysis.
  2. Heaney's mind was likened to a cathedral - able to resonate and echo with profound depth and complexity.
  3. When given the chance for private discussion, Heaney's brilliance and poetic insight were truly remarkable.

What Books Are Really Getting Banned?

2323 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Presidential Race Foreign Policy Pandemic response
  1. Investigation found that the issue is not banned books but limited exposure to diverse opinions, especially in school libraries.
  2. Political dynamics in Iowa show low Republican turnouts and endorsements, hinting at an emerging trend in the upcoming elections.
  3. Heartbreaking letter from an Israeli reflects the ongoing trauma and desperate plea for the return of hostages, shedding light on the human cost of conflict.

My Best Friend Died From Loneliness

6237 implied HN points • 27 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Society Working Class
  1. White working-class Americans are struggling with isolation and experiencing a decline in life expectancy since 2000.
  2. Many college-educated Americans may overlook the importance of social cues and connections from upper classes.
  3. There is a need for political representation and support systems to address the challenges faced by the working-class community in America.

Should the U.S. Shut Its Borders? Join Us for Our Next Live Debate

1827 implied HN points • 06 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Debates Presidential candidates Election Issues Civil Liberties
  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.