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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

Top posts of the year

And their main takeaways

TGIF: The State of TG Is Strong

3241 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Analysis
  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.

WATCH: American Miseducation. A New Documentary from The Free Press

3232 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests Ideology Youth Education
  1. There has been a rise in pro-Palestinian protests in New York City, targeting iconic institutions like the Rockefeller Christmas tree lighting ceremony, Memorial Sloan Kettering's Cancer Center, the American Museum of Natural History, and the U.S. Holocaust Museum.
  2. Some of the protesters express anti-Semitic sentiments and comparisons, advocating for the liberation of Palestinians but often resorting to derogatory language against Israelis, using terms like Zionist, settler-colonialist, and occupier.
  3. There is concern about the influence of ideologies like decolonization and intersectionality on American campuses, leading to sympathy towards terrorism among the Gen Z population, highlighting a shift away from the pursuit of truth in academia.

‘I Was Fired After Blowing the Whistle’

3162 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
🏥 Health Politics Gender Dysphoria Whistleblowers Youth Gender Medicine Advocacy Mental health
  1. Several therapists have spoken out in fear that medical treatment of minors with gender dysphoria may be harming youths.
  2. Speakers like Tamara and Jamie, despite facing challenges, continue to advocate for the importance of speaking out regarding concerns about youth gender medicine.
  3. Supportive coalitions like The LGBT Courage Coalition and advice from whistleblowers are available for those considering speaking out on topics like pediatric gender medicine.

The Prophets: D.A. Henderson

3125 implied HN points • 16 Mar 24
🏥 Health Politics Global Health Public Health Pandemics Lockdowns Epidemiology
  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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WATCH: This Muslim Israeli Woman Is the Hope of the Middle East

3111 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Media Israel Middle East Conflict Diversity
  1. Lucy Aharish is the first Arab Muslim news presenter on mainstream, Hebrew-language Israeli television.
  2. She is an iconoclast who challenges societal norms by being an Arab, a proud Israeli, and a Muslim married to a Jew.
  3. Lucy Aharish has been vocal in her criticism of far-right voices, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Arab violence, emphasizing unity between Israelis and Arabs.

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: 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.

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.

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.

The Free Press in Israel: A Special Limited Series

2796 implied HN points • 05 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Israel Middle East Conflict Journalism Civilization
  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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Can This Death Row Inmate Bring Down the Death Penalty Itself?

2160 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Justice System Legal system Prison System Political Influence
  1. Richard Glossip's case highlights flaws in the justice system, sparking a broader conversation about the death penalty in Oklahoma and the potential risk of innocent individuals being executed.
  2. The involvement of high-profile figures and bipartisan support in the fight for Glossip's case showcases the complexities and potential injustices within the legal system.
  3. Glossip's story portrays the power of hope and human connection in the face of adversity, emphasizing the impact of personal relationships and faith during times of struggle.

Rob Henderson: The Three Adults Who Abandoned Me

2147 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Memoir Social Issues
  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.

Weekend Listening: The Right Way to Fight Illiberalism

2119 implied HN points • 27 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Law Ideology Activism Governance
  1. There is a spreading concern about the moral decline within American universities due to instances of antisemitism and ideological indoctrination.
  2. Many states are reevaluating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives on college campuses through legislation and policy changes.
  3. There is a debate about the nature of DEI ideology, with some viewing it as an illiberal force prioritizing identity over ideas, while others argue about its Marxist influences and impact on societal values.

The UN’s Terrorism Teachers

2109 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Israel Iran UN Middle East
  1. The United States and other nations have halted funding for UNRWA due to accusations of staff involvement in attacks, supported by evidence provided by organizations like UN Watch.
  2. There are concerns about the escalating conflict with Hezbollah in northern Israel, potentially surpassing the intensity of the current conflict with Hamas.
  3. There are conflicting policies in the U.S. government regarding Iran, with diplomatic efforts for a nuclear deal while military tensions rise in regions like Iraq, Syria, and Yemen.

Weekend Listening: Dean Phillips on His Long-Shot White House Bid

2109 implied HN points • 13 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Democratic Party Bipartisanship
  1. Dean Phillips is running for president as a moderate Democrat to challenge the party establishment and offer an alternative to voters who feel alienated by both parties.
  2. Phillips believes in the importance of democracy and competition within the Democratic Party, criticizing the coronation of certain candidates and calling for reform.
  3. Although critical of Joe Biden's communication skills and decline, Phillips states that he will support Biden if he becomes the 2024 nominee to defeat Donald Trump.

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.

Weekend Listening: The Real Team America

2026 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Defense Terrorism National Security Leadership
  1. There is growing concern over potential conflicts involving the U.S., China, Russia, and other nations, which could escalate into a global war.
  2. Many Americans, including influential figures like business leaders and journalists, are investing in innovative defense technologies to strengthen national security.
  3. Innovation in software is seen as crucial for modern defense, enabling the development of advanced weapon systems and vehicles with AI and autonomous capabilities.

The UN’s Terrorism Teachers

1970 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Hamas Terrorism Israel Refugees
  1. UNRWA, the organization that molds young minds in Palestinian refugee camps, has been found entangled with Hamas terrorism.
  2. UNRWA teachers have been identified as promoting terrorism and celebrating violent acts against Jews.
  3. Several donor countries have suspended funding to UNRWA, signaling a growing concern over the agency's involvement with terrorism, leading to calls for the abolition of UNRWA.