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

Top posts of the year

And their main takeaways

What Happened When DEI Came to the Military?

4975 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military Diversity Inclusion Policies Governance
  1. The military is focusing more on diversity, but some believe it shouldn't come before readiness and effectiveness. Keeping skills and qualifications at the forefront is really important.
  2. Retired Brigadier General Christopher Walker worked in the Air Force’s diversity office but had a different view than many expected. His experiences highlight a divide in opinions about DEI in the armed forces.
  3. The ongoing debate about DEI initiatives in the military shows there are strong feelings on both sides. Finding a balance between diversity and maintaining high standards is a key concern.

TGIF: Mar-a-Gaza

4971 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Foreign affairs Public Opinion
  1. Trump has proposed a controversial plan to take over the Gaza Strip for real estate development, aiming to create a luxurious area reminiscent of the Riviera.
  2. Musk's DOGE team is shaking up government spending, looking closely at agencies like USAID, which has ties to political funding and previous controversial figures.
  3. There are concerns about the influence and past actions of individuals within the DOGE initiative, highlighting potential issues with government reform efforts.

TGIF: Be (My Limestone) Mine?

4920 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Efficiency Policy Culture Political Commentary
  1. Elon Musk's team is trying to modernize government processes, like digitizing how federal employee retirements are handled. This could save time and money compared to current methods that involve a lot of manual labor.
  2. There's a focus on cutting unnecessary expenses, like the cost of minting pennies, which is more than their value. Efforts are being made to remove these inefficiencies.
  3. A young adviser at the State Department, known as 'Big Balls,' has gained attention for his unusual online name. This sparked discussions in the media, showcasing how things can get blown out of proportion in public conversations.

TGIF: It All Comes Out

4915 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Economy Policy Media
  1. Melania Trump is promoting Christmas ornaments this year, showcasing her designs and emphasizing their patriotic theme. This may hint at a future where political events are paired with merchandise.
  2. Janet Yellen has acknowledged that the U.S. is facing a significant deficit, raising concerns about fiscal responsibility. She suggests that future spending needs to be more careful to manage this debt.
  3. There’s criticism regarding recent government spending, particularly on student loan forgiveness, which some believe primarily benefits wealthier individuals. This has sparked debate about fiscal sustainability.

The Ultimate Deception: How Trump and Bibi Outfoxed Iran

4780 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East Diplomacy Military Strategy International relations Conflict Studies
  1. Trump and Netanyahu were straightforward in their plans against Iran, avoiding complex political language. This clear communication was crucial in their strategy.
  2. Iran's top military leaders, who had threatened Israel, believed they were safe and went about their normal lives without fear. This showed a miscalculation of the threat posed by Israel.
  3. The consequence for Iran's leaders was severe, as they were ultimately targeted and eliminated, illustrating the risks of underestimating an opponent.
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TGIF: War Room Correspondent

4739 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Media Public Opinion Elections Policy
  1. Trump's press team is changing how the White House briefing room works by opening it to more journalists, which is a big shift from the past. It means that anyone can now apply for access, rather than just be invited.
  2. Federal workers are upset about being told to return to the office, with some even suing over how the message was delivered. The email they received wasn't well received, and many are worried about juggling work and childcare.
  3. Colombia's president wrote a strange poem in response to Trump after initially refusing to take back migrants. This unusual communication shows the unpredictable nature of international relations in the current political climate.

How Jonathan Haidt Won the Fight Against Smartphones in Schools

4655 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🚌 Education Teaching Methods Child development Digital Literacy School Policy Parenting
  1. Having rules about smartphone use in schools helps students connect better with their teachers. Many teachers noticed students paying more attention and being more respectful after limiting phone use.
  2. The shift away from screens in the classroom has made a positive difference in students' behavior and engagement. Teachers are seeing students who are more willing to participate and communicate.
  3. Promoting more unsupervised play can help children develop important social skills. This balance is important to counteract the heavy use of technology in their lives.

Trump Keeps His Promise on Iran. The World Is Safer for It.

4623 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy National Security Military Action Political Commentary
  1. Trump promised to stop Iran from getting nuclear weapons and acted on that promise with a military strike.
  2. The U.S. used powerful bombs to hit Iran's nuclear sites, which other countries might not have been able to damage as effectively.
  3. Despite some opposition from within his team, Trump made a bold choice to protect global safety.

Things Worth Remembering: The Zionism of Martin Luther King

4595 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Historical Figures Social movements
  1. Martin Luther King Jr. believed that peace and security in Israel were important for democracy. He emphasized that Israel needed a sense of safety to thrive.
  2. King was known for his powerful speeches and moral courage. His words continue to inspire people to work towards justice and equality.
  3. Despite his tragic assassination, King's vision for a better future lives on. He motivated many to strive for a promised land of freedom and justice.

TGIF: Hard Pivot

4595 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Government Media Public Opinion
  1. Biden warned about the growing influence of wealthy individuals in American politics. He believes this could threaten democracy and everyone's chance to succeed.
  2. He talked about the need for accountability on social media platforms to stop the spread of false information. Biden thinks this is important to protect families and democracy.
  3. The idea of oligarchs controlling politics can be complex, especially when they support causes on different sides. It raises questions about the balance of power in a democracy.

TGIF: The Ten-Pound Brain Administration

4581 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
  1. Donald Trump is pushing through his nominations quickly, showing confidence in his choices. People are aligning with his ideas without much debate, as seen in recent congressional comments.
  2. Asian American voters are shifting towards the right in significant numbers. Many are reacting to concerns about crime and education, leading to major political changes in areas with large Asian populations.
  3. Matt Gaetz is facing serious allegations involving inappropriate relations and payments to women. His situation raises concerns about the behavior of younger politicians compared to older ones.

TGIF: Welcome to America, Greenland

4511 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political News Elections Government Legislation Political Commentary
  1. Trump is reportedly serious about acquiring new territories like Greenland and the Panama Canal, marking a shift in America's approach to territory expansion.
  2. A Republican congresswoman has been found living in a senior care facility, raising questions about the effectiveness of political leadership in D.C.
  3. There is a clash within the MAGA movement as traditional conservatives and tech advocates clash over policy decisions, highlighting divisions in the party.

TGIF: The Lame Duck

4488 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Presidency Budgeting Political parties Government Policy Elections
  1. President Biden is facing criticisms about his mental health and lack of engagement with key government officials, raising concerns about his leadership capabilities.
  2. President-elect Elon Musk and Donald Trump are disrupting the traditional budget process, causing Congress to struggle with passing a new budget amid rising tensions.
  3. There's a contrast in political styles between Biden, who presents a moderate image, and Musk, who is approaching governance in a radically different way, hinting at significant changes ahead.

Rep. Seth Moulton: Democrats Are Wearing an ‘Ideological Straitjacket’

4447 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
  1. Many progressives are unhappy with Congressman Seth Moulton for expressing concerns about trans women competing in women's sports. They feel his comments go against the party's support for trans rights.
  2. Moulton believes Democrats are too focused on being politically correct and not addressing real issues. He feels it's important to have open discussions about concerns parents might have.
  3. His comments have led to significant backlash, including calls for him to resign and criticism from fellow Democrats and different organizations. This shows how sensitive and divided the topic of trans rights can be within the party.

Bari Weiss: The Comprehensive Failure of Justin Trudeau

4437 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Leadership Government International relations Liberalism
  1. Justin Trudeau was seen as a hero for liberalism but many of his actions were against liberal values and didn't resonate with people.
  2. His resignation came after a series of internal issues in his government, which he blamed, but the root problems were his poor ideas.
  3. The challenges he faced were not just personal but stemmed from unpopular policies and decisions that did not reflect public sentiment.

TGIF: Three Days In, Two Terrorist Attacks and a Subway Shove

4428 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Terrorism Crime Law enforcement Public Safety Government Response
  1. A man drove a truck into a crowd in New Orleans while displaying an ISIS flag, leading to multiple fatalities, but authorities downplayed it as terrorism.
  2. In Las Vegas, another terrorist attempted to cause harm with a vehicle loaded with explosives but ended up only injuring himself and a few others.
  3. A subway incident in New York involved a random shove of a commuter, highlighting rising crime and dangerous behavior in public transport.

Martin Gurri: Our Countercultural Revolution

4414 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
  1. Some elections are won through specific tactics, but Trump's win was big and different. It showed a change in the political landscape and brought together a unique group of supporters.
  2. The media has lost a lot of trust from the public, especially when trying to influence elections. Traditional news brands struggled to connect with people, and many turned away from them.
  3. Trump's rise is part of a larger cultural movement that is changing American society. He went from being a showman to a significant figure with the potential to reshape many aspects of life in the country.

Here’s to the First Million Free Pressers—And the Next

4405 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
📰 News Journalism Media Public Trust Subscriptions Content creation
  1. The Free Press has grown to one million subscribers by focusing on delivering honest journalism. People are looking for trustworthy news that reflects reality.
  2. Instead of just rejecting old media, The Free Press aims to provide valuable content that people need. They emphasize the importance of pursuing truth in their reporting.
  3. The growth of The Free Press shows that many people still care about real journalism and want to support it. This gives hope for the future of journalism as a whole.

L.A. Was Built to Burn

4363 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🌞 Climate & Environment Wildfires Ecosystems Urban Development Natural Disasters Environmental policies
  1. Los Angeles is built in a way that fire is part of its natural environment. This means wildfires will keep happening regardless of who is in charge.
  2. The area has a history of being described as a grassland, not a desert, and fires are a normal part of this ecosystem.
  3. Some experts believe that certain areas in L.A. should never have been developed because they are prone to burning, making homes there very risky.

The Truth About Bob Dylan’s Falling Out with Pete Seeger

4229 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Music Film Politics History Art
  1. Bob Dylan's conflict with Pete Seeger was more about differing political views than Dylan going electric. Seeger and others were concerned about Dylan's lack of interest in their leftist politics.
  2. Dylan's career has played tricks on fans and critics alike, creating misunderstandings about his true beliefs and intentions. His complex lyrics and infrequent interviews lead to lots of interpretations, some far from the truth.
  3. The film 'A Complete Unknown' attempts to provide a straightforward take on Dylan's early career, but it misses the bigger picture of his unique relationship with the political scene around him. Dylan chose his own path, moving away from the expectations of his folk singer peers.

It’s Time for the Government to Abolish ‘Race’

4219 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Race Issues Government Policy Civil Rights Identity politics
  1. The government has been categorizing people into limited racial groups since 1977, which critics argue is outdated and arbitrary.
  2. Changes to these categories are coming, with the 2030 census set to have seven defined races instead of five, but these classifications are still seen as confusing and nonsensical.
  3. Some people believe that instead of having these set racial categories, the concept of race should be completely abolished in government practices.

TGIF: I Solemnly Swear

4201 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Elections Legislation Political Commentary Government actions
  1. Trump's inauguration was marked by unusual events, including performances that blended politics and pop culture. The atmosphere seemed to be both celebratory and chaotic.
  2. Trump launched meme coins during his inauguration, creating a buzz about potential scams in the market. Many people quickly bought into these coins, but their values fluctuated sharply soon after.
  3. Joe Biden attempted to declare the Equal Rights Amendment as law via social media, claiming widespread support. However, the amendment's status is disputed, with issues around its ratification.

Stop Striving and Have a Baby

4178 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Parenting Society Lifestyle Education Family
  1. Having a baby can bring unexpected joy and fulfillment, challenging the belief that it disrupts your life. Many think parenting is mostly about chaos, but it can also be a source of happiness.
  2. Society often glorifies being busy and the 'striver' lifestyle, leading people to feel pressured to achieve more. This mindset can create a false sense of importance around constant striving for success.
  3. There's a cultural shift where the highest status is given to those who seem very busy, which can disconnect people from personal relationships. It's important to find balance and not get lost in the hustle.

Things Worth Remembering: ‘A Game Most Like Life’

4136 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Football Coaching Culture Events Leadership
  1. Vince Lombardi believed that football, like life, teaches important lessons about hard work, sacrifice, and respect. These values are essential in achieving our goals.
  2. The Free Press is evolving and will bring in new voices for its column 'Things Worth Remembering' as Douglas Murray steps back. This change reflects the ongoing journey of the publication.
  3. Super Bowl Sunday is a reminder of Lombardi's legacy, emphasizing the lessons learned through sports. His famous quote on winning reminds us of the competitive drive we all have.

EXCLUSIVE: PBS Disappears DEI Department in Wake of Free Press Investigation

4029 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Media Social Issues
  1. PBS has decided to close its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) department. This happened after an investigation by The Free Press raised questions about the department's role in relation to an executive order.
  2. The CEO of PBS informed staff about the departure of two DEI executives. She mentioned that this move was to ensure compliance with the president's order.
  3. This change at PBS reflects broader tensions and changes in how organizations handle diversity initiatives, especially under political scrutiny.

TGIF: War Games

4020 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Elections Government War Political Commentary
  1. Trump suggests that the U.S. should step back from supporting Ukraine and that Europe should take more responsibility for its own defense. He criticizes the spending involved and questions the effectiveness of current strategies.
  2. Sanna Marin, Finland's former prime minister, agrees that it's reasonable for Americans to ask why they should pay more for Europe's security. She believes Europe needs to strengthen its own defense capabilities.
  3. There are ongoing discussions about the long-term implications of the Ukraine conflict and the need for a new approach, as the war has dragged on with significant human costs and little indication of a quick resolution.

Abigail Shrier Was Vilified. Now She’s Been Vindicated.

3987 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Politics Health Policy Social Issues Public Discourse
  1. Some researchers bravely challenge popular beliefs, and Abigail Shrier is one of them. She wrote a book about the risks of transitioning minors, especially teenage girls.
  2. Shrier found that parents were often misled about the consequences of their choices. Medical professionals used fear tactics to push life-changing treatments on families.
  3. Critics of the idea that minors should transition faced serious backlash. Speaking out against this belief often led to social and professional consequences.

‘I Gave My Life to the FBI. And It Damn Near Broke Me.’

3964 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Security Law enforcement Mental health Public Service
  1. Pat McMonigle dedicated his life to the FBI after a personal tragedy, aiming to fight terrorism. His commitment led him to a long career with many challenges.
  2. Despite his success and achievements, including multiple commendations, he faced severe mental health struggles, particularly PTSD from traumatic experiences on the job.
  3. Ultimately, he chose to resign from the FBI to protect his well-being, highlighting the serious mental health issues faced by many agents in high-stress positions.

Niall Ferguson: The Rot In Britain—and the Remedy

3941 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Freedom of Speech Media Criticism International relations
  1. There is a growing concern about the state of debate and free speech in Britain, especially highlighted by an incident at the Oxford Union. People are feeling that open discussions are being stifled.
  2. During a recent debate, the crowd showed hostility towards pro-Israel speakers, indicating a divide in opinions and a lack of respect for differing viewpoints. This suggests there may be an atmosphere that discourages diverse opinions.
  3. Overall, the situation raises questions about national identity and the importance of preserving traditional values in the face of modern challenges. People are worried about losing what makes their country special.

Things Worth Remembering: Winston Churchill’s Christmas Message to America

3913 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
💾 History World War Speeches Political Leaders
  1. Churchill's Christmas message during a tough time reminded people to find peace in their spirits despite the ongoing war. It's a reminder that hope can exist even in dark times.
  2. The speech shows how powerful words can inspire and unify people, especially during challenging moments in history. Great leaders use their voices to encourage others.
  3. Reflecting on Churchill's ability to lead through words makes us wonder about our current leaders. We often crave charismatic leaders who can guide us through struggles.

It’s Not Just Red Dye No. 3. It’s All Our Stuff.

3909 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Food Safety Public Health Regulation Consumer Rights Toxicology
  1. The FDA recently banned Red Dye No. 3 due to concerns about its link to thyroid cancer in animals. It's a small victory, but there are many other potentially harmful additives still being used.
  2. Red Dye No. 3 will likely be replaced by Red Dye No. 40, which also has warnings about its effects on children in Europe. This shows that simply switching one dye for another isn't a true solution.
  3. There is a growing concern that synthetic dyes are just a small part of a larger problem with harmful chemicals in our food and products. It's important for consumers to demand safer options.

The Miracle of the Light

3909 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Judaism Religion Philosophy Tradition History
  1. In tough times, we look for hope and inspiration, often represented by light. The stories and symbols of Jewish history highlight the fight for life and dignity.
  2. A famous image from 1931 shows a menorah shining bright against a swastika, symbolizing the struggle between good and evil. It reminds us of what we stand for in the face of opposition.
  3. Some people mock traditional beliefs, like the miracle of Hanukkah, but these beliefs underline important values like human equality and the sanctity of life. Our spiritual heritage teaches us about more than just history.

Things Worth Remembering: ‘We Fell Morally Ill’

3899 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Leadership Government Democracy History
  1. People need to speak the truth for a government to regain trust. Honest communication can help restore faith in leadership.
  2. A new leader can promise to fix past wrongs and bring back democracy. This promise often resonates with people who feel betrayed.
  3. History shows that change is possible after dark times. Just like in Czechoslovakia after communism, new beginnings can lead to hope and freedom.

Things Worth Remembering: The Last Words of Alexei Navalny

3890 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
  1. Alexei Navalny showed incredible courage when he returned to Russia after being poisoned. This act is seen as historic because it inspired many people.
  2. His return led to his arrest and imprisonment, highlighting the dangers faced by those who speak out against oppressive governments.
  3. Navalny's posthumous memoir, titled 'Patriot', offers insights into his thoughts and reasons for his brave decisions during his fight for freedom.

The History Lesson Democrats Can’t Afford to Forget

3872 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
  1. Trump won big in the recent elections, surprising many, including his own supporters. This shows that a significant portion of Americans, including diverse groups, are backing him.
  2. Democrats need to change their strategy if they want to win in future elections. Simply resisting Trump didn't work before, and they must find a better approach.
  3. Historically, the Democratic Party has bounced back from tough losses. They need to learn from the past and reach out to voters who feel ignored by their current focus on special interest groups.

The End of Youth Gender Transition?

3830 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Supreme Court Gender Issues Healthcare policy
  1. The Supreme Court decided that states can limit or ban gender transition treatments for minors. This marks a significant shift in how such medical care is regulated.
  2. The number of young people seeking transition treatments has greatly increased in recent years, with a surprising number of adolescent girls among those seeking help.
  3. The ruling highlights concerns about the lack of solid evidence and ethical practices surrounding these medical interventions for minors.

How to Dress Like a Gentleman—And Why

3783 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Fashion Style Identity Communication Gender
  1. Dressing well shows that you care about your appearance and how you present yourself. It's not childish; it's actually a sign of maturity.
  2. A good wardrobe can make a big difference in how you're perceived, especially in professional settings. Wearing a suit and tie can elevate your status.
  3. Transitioning from a uniform to formal wear can be challenging, but it’s important to adapt to new environments and expectations. Knowing how to dress for the occasion is key.

The Democratic Coalition Has Shattered. Here’s How to Rebuild It.

3709 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
  1. The Democratic Party is struggling to connect with white working-class voters and those in rural areas. This makes it harder for them to win elections consistently.
  2. Democrats' focus on the values of educated, liberal Americans is leaving behind ordinary voters. Their appeal to the common man is not resonating as strongly as before.
  3. Recent election results show that demographic shifts are impacting the Democratic coalition negatively. The party needs to understand these trends to improve their chances in future elections.

Voters Sent Democrats a Clear Message. They Don’t Want to Hear It.

3700 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Political Ideologies Public Opinion Campaign strategies
  1. Democrats are ignoring important cultural issues like race and immigration that many voters care about. This disconnect is hurting their popularity.
  2. Ruy Teixeira believes that the party's focus on strict ideological beliefs is driving away working-class Americans. It’s crucial for them to regain this group's support.
  3. Instead of reevaluating their stance on cultural issues, Democrats seem to be avoiding serious discussions. This denial could keep them unpopular with the general public.