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

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: The Freedom to Be Different

1729 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Identity Diversity Tradition Philosophy Religion
  1. Being different is important and can shape our lives in meaningful ways. Simple actions that stand out may seem small, but they hold real significance.
  2. The freedom to be oneself, especially in the Jewish community, has been fought for and is vital for survival and identity.
  3. Simon Rawidowicz showed how being unique and thinking differently can have a deep impact, even in challenging times. His life was a testament to the strength found in embracing one's differences.

My Terrorists Face Judgment Day

1669 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Human Rights Terrorism Geopolitics
  1. Some people are happy about the downfall of powerful figures in Iran, as they have caused a lot of suffering. They see this as a moment of justice.
  2. The author has faced serious threats from Iran's government, including attempts to kidnap and kill them. This shows how dangerous it can be to speak out against oppressive regimes.
  3. The fight for freedom and safety isn't just personal for the author; it's part of a larger struggle many people are facing. Their story highlights the importance of independent journalism in uncovering these issues.

Niall Ferguson: America Is in a Late Republic Stage—Like Rome

1623 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Foreign Policy Political theory Public Opinion
  1. America's foreign policy has changed a lot, especially under Biden, leading to new alliances between countries like Russia, China, and Iran that are concerning for the West.
  2. Many people think that if Trump gets reelected, it would be good for countries like Russia and China, but the opposite may be true; it could increase pressure on those nations.
  3. The idea of a 'liberal international order' that we used to have is misleading; it wasn't as fair or organized as people believe, and now America is leaning towards more self-focused governance.

The Forgotten American: Can There Be Life After 12 Years in a Chinese Prison?

1405 implied HN points • 08 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Justice Prison Reform International relations Human Rights Government Policy
  1. Mark Swidan spent over 12 years in a Chinese prison for a crime he didn't commit. It was a tough time where he felt isolated and confused.
  2. After returning to Texas, Mark struggles to readjust to life outside prison. He's focused on rebuilding his life, but it's proving to be a big challenge.
  3. He's currently relying on food stamps, which shows how hard it is for someone with his past to find stability and support in America.
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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.

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.

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.

Trump’s China Shift Rattles Hawks in Congress

208 implied HN points • 24 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Congress Foreign Policy National Security Technology Policy China relations Oversight
  1. The president’s unpredictable shift toward China is making it harder for congressional hawks to push a unified crackdown, leaving enforcement efforts uncertain.
  2. University partnerships like the Tsinghua‑Berkeley Shenzhen Institute alarm lawmakers because they can give China access to U.S. research and collaborations with firms tied to the PLA or under U.S. sanctions.
  3. AI and other advanced technologies have become central flash points in the rivalry, with worries that academic and industry ties could help China close key strategic gaps or enable military applications.

Why I Changed My Mind About the Death Penalty

1126 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Justice System Criminal law Death Penalty Political Opinions Public Policy
  1. The author once opposed the death penalty but changed their mind after seeing its importance in certain serious crimes. They now believe it serves a purpose in the justice system.
  2. Recent changes in federal policy have resumed the death penalty under the current administration, targeting particularly severe crimes. This raises questions about whether some offenses deserve this ultimate punishment.
  3. Support for the death penalty is not popular in certain areas, especially among liberal Democrats, indicating a cultural divide on the issue. Public opinion is complex and varies greatly depending on location and political views.

Should Israel Pardon Bibi? The AI Cure for Deafness. Plus. . . 

306 implied HN points • 02 Dec 25
📰 News Politics International Technology Science Health Law Business
  1. Netanyahu's formal pardon request has split Israel: some see a pardon as a way to heal the nation, while others view it as a dangerous blow to the rule of law.
  2. Recent Trump-linked lawfare efforts are backfiring because inexperienced prosecutors were disqualified, delaying hearings and weakening the cases they were meant to press.
  3. Rapid advances in AI and gene editing are reshaping medicine and ethics — they could make deafness rare and force society to decide whether editing embryos to prevent disease is a moral duty or a slide toward eugenics.

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.

This Supreme Court Term Proves the System Still Works

1456 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Supreme Court Legislation Judiciary Political Analysis Constitutional Law
  1. The Supreme Court had notable victories for conservatives this term, including key rulings supporting Trump's policies. This shows a strong conservative majority in the Court.
  2. Some people, especially progressives, are upset about the Court's decisions, claiming they create confusion and support unlawful actions.
  3. Overall, the term demonstrated that the Supreme Court remains active and influential, not easily swayed by political pressure.

Losing Stanislav: A Ukrainian Tragedy

236 implied HN points • 17 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Human Rights War Crimes International Law Propaganda
  1. Families of children taken from Ukrainian orphanages face deep uncertainty and fading hope after kids were removed by Russian authorities during the war.
  2. Human rights investigators are doing painstaking work—scrutinizing Russian propaganda videos and matching images to adoption sites—to try to identify and track missing children.
  3. The search for one boy highlights a wider crisis: stolen Ukrainian children are being moved through opaque channels, and legal, political, and informational barriers make reunification increasingly difficult.

Niall Ferguson: What Comes After Trump’s ‘Surgical Strikes’?

1530 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Action Political Commentary Trump administration Geopolitics
  1. The term 'surgical strike' suggests a precise, low-casualty military action, appealing to Americans who dislike high military casualties. It implies that complex international issues can be solved quickly and easily.
  2. Historically, 'surgical strike' started as a sarcastic term about the violence of air strikes. It has evolved to mean targeted military actions, especially since precision weapons became more common.
  3. Trump's use of surgical strikes in conflicts aims to show strength and deter future threats while also trying to promote peace. This reflects a desire for decisive actions in foreign policy.

‘Everything Is Gone’

3542 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
📰 News Disaster Economics Personal Stories
  1. The recent fires in Los Angeles have caused massive destruction, burning more than 36,000 acres and destroying nearly 10,000 structures. That's a huge area, larger than the city of Miami.
  2. Over 100,000 people have been evacuated due to these fires, which have resulted in around 11 confirmed deaths so far. However, many are still unaccounted for, raising concerns for their safety.
  3. Even after losing everything, the people affected by the fires are holding on to hope. They share their stories and experiences, showing resilience despite the devastating circumstances.

What Justice Scalia Taught Me

996 implied HN points • 19 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Law Justice Ethics Education Politics
  1. It's important for law students to support different opinions. This helps them learn how to find justice in the courts.
  2. Working as a prosecutor can be meaningful, but sometimes you might face tough decisions that challenge your values.
  3. Standing up for what you believe in, even if it means leaving a job you love, is important for personal and professional integrity.

Americans to Celebrate: The Prophet of the Atomic Age

338 implied HN points • 24 Nov 25
💾 History Biography 20th century Cold War Science Military Technology Intellectual
  1. John von Neumann was an extraordinarily brilliant Hungarian-born mathematician who invented game theory and helped shape America’s nuclear strategy.
  2. He warned that the technologies he helped create could threaten humanity and thought we were entering a rapidly maturing crisis.
  3. In the 1950s he predicted that military advances, early signs of global warming, and growing resource demands would make the coming decades dangerously unstable.

Virginity Is the Last Taboo

1469 implied HN points • 28 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Gender Studies Human behavior Relationships Sexuality
  1. Many women feel that virginity carries a strong significance, even in a time when sexual freedom is celebrated. Their experiences and feelings about virginity can vary widely.
  2. The topic of virginity is still considered a taboo in society, creating pressure and expectations around a woman's first sexual experience.
  3. Conversations about virginity often reveal that it can be seen as both a personal experience and a social construct, influencing how women view their own sexuality.

The Case for Dating Abundance

1126 implied HN points • 02 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Relationships Social Issues Dating Media Gender
  1. Dating has become a tough battlefield for both men and women, with a lot of frustration and anger in the air. People are struggling to connect and understand each other in romantic relationships.
  2. A recent satire shows how extreme dating frustrations can become, highlighting a woman who takes her date hostage to prove they should be together. This reflects the intense feelings many single women face today.
  3. There's a growing belief that dating is failing, especially for straight people, due to various issues, particularly blaming men. This idea has sparked conversations about the future of relationships.

Palmer Luckey: I Saw the Future of War. Now It’s Up to Us to Prepare For It.

1089 implied HN points • 05 Aug 25
🕹 Technology Military Tech Innovation Defense Cybersecurity Drones
  1. Technology is now the key advantage on the battlefield. Countries need to focus on using innovative tech to win conflicts.
  2. Ukraine has shown that smaller, cheaper tech like drones can have a big impact in war. It's not just about having the biggest weapons.
  3. Taiwan has a chance to be a leader in defense innovation. The new generation must step up to create advanced technology to protect their country.

The Online Right Is Building a Monster

2884 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Far-right Social media Political Rhetoric Public Opinion
  1. The online right is becoming more extreme, which might scare regular people. It's important to notice how this change is happening on social media platforms.
  2. Bullying can happen from both the left and right sides of politics. When some people gain power, they might misuse it to attack others they disagree with.
  3. The extreme views currently gaining popularity online may not align with what most Americans think. Many opinions expressed there could be perceived as crazy or offensive by a wider audience.

Exclusive: Republicans Accuse Climate Groups of Doing China’s ‘Dirty Work’ in the U.S.

227 implied HN points • 16 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign influence State Politics Energy Policy Environmental Policy Lobbying Legal action
  1. Twenty-six Republican state attorneys general asked the Justice Department to investigate whether two climate-focused nonprofits failed to disclose lobbying or acting on behalf of China.
  2. The complaint cites evidence that the Energy Foundation China and the Center for Climate Integrity may have acted as unregistered agents, pointing to EFC’s Beijing office and staff who previously worked for Chinese government climate agencies.
  3. Those groups present themselves as U.S. tax-exempt organizations working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but Republicans say their ties to China raise concerns about foreign influence on U.S. energy policy.

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.

‘I Risked Everything to Blow the Whistle on Britain’s Grooming Gangs’

3083 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Justice Social Policy Human Rights Political Accountability
  1. A woman named Maggie Oliver exposed a shocking scandal where gangs of men groomed and raped young girls in Britain for many years. She worked hard to bring attention to these crimes, but faced a lot of obstacles.
  2. Authorities often ignored or covered up the abuse to avoid being seen as 'racist'. This led to many victims not getting the justice they deserved.
  3. Recently, more people are finally talking about this issue, which highlights how some waited until it was safe to speak out. Maggie Oliver wants to remind everyone that she raised alarms about this scandal long before it became a trending topic.

The Terrorist Who Murdered My Cousin Now Walks Free

3088 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East Terrorism Ethics Justice
  1. Releasing terrorists for hostages creates a tough moral dilemma. While we want to bring our loved ones home, it can lead to more violence in the future.
  2. The love of life is a core value in Israel, contrasting with groups that embrace death. This makes the emotions surrounding loss and the release of attackers even more painful.
  3. There is a strong, unbreakable bond among the Jewish community that drives the desire to rescue hostages, even at great risk. This unity is essential for healing and strength.

How MAGA Won the ‘Sensitive Young Man’

3097 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Trumpism Voter Demographics Cultural influence Political History
  1. Trump's appeal to younger male voters goes beyond politics; it's about connecting on a human level. Many young men feel that Trump represents their experiences and views.
  2. Even though Trump doesn't have a clear ideological stance, his rise sparked new energy in right-wing intellectual circles. This has encouraged a younger generation to engage with politics in a way they hadn't before.
  3. For many young people today, Trump is a symbol of a political identity they've only known, rather than just a fleeting disruptor in politics. He represents a shift in how they view themselves in relation to political movements.

Kristen Stewart Needs You to Know She Thinks Method Acting Is Cringe

241 implied HN points • 12 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Film Acting Directing Celebrity Pop culture Entertainment
  1. Kristen Stewart says method acting is cringe and seems to reject the solemn seriousness some actors bring to their craft.
  2. She quietly rebuilt her career after Twilight by favoring indie projects and moving into directing instead of courting mainstream fame.
  3. Her directorial debut, The Chronology of Water, is a bold but divisive film that left audiences split between admiration and bafflement.

Coleman Hughes: I Just Did Therapy in Public

1354 implied HN points • 03 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Self-help Mental health Philosophy Communication Personal Growth
  1. There are four desires that can lead people off track: power, wealth, pleasure, and honor. Focusing too much on any of these can harm your life.
  2. Self-reflection is important, and sometimes we need to ask ourselves what we truly value. This can lead to better understanding and happiness.
  3. Therapy can be helpful for specific issues, but doing it in a group or public setting can bring different insights and challenges. It’s about connecting deeply with our thoughts and feelings.

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.

Niall Ferguson: Our Own Gilded Age

932 implied HN points • 21 Aug 25
💾 History American history Economic History Cultural History Social Issues Media influence
  1. The late 19th century, known as the Gilded Age, had a lot of economic growth but also significant inequality, similar to trends we see today.
  2. Television shows like HBO’s 'The Gilded Age' can reflect our current society and its values, showcasing a contrasting elite compared to modern times.
  3. For deeper insights into societal changes, reading historical texts like Mark Twain's work may provide more clarity than watching dramatized versions on TV.

What Makes Europe Better than America?

1558 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Society Lifestyle Travel Food Identity
  1. In Europe, there is a strong focus on community health and shared resources, while in the U.S., the emphasis is more on individual freedom and material wealth.
  2. The experience of eating in a local café in Europe can feel more uplifting and enriching compared to eating in a corporate setting in America.
  3. Aesthetics and the atmosphere of a place can make a big difference in how we feel about our experiences, even when the actual food is similar.

Egypt’s War Against the World’s Oldest Christian Monastery

959 implied HN points • 17 Aug 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Christianity Religious freedom Cultural heritage Middle East
  1. St. Catherine's Monastery is the oldest Christian monastery in the world and has been a place of worship for over 1,500 years. It's located in the Sinai desert and has deep historical significance.
  2. Recently, an Egyptian court ruled that the monks at the monastery are only 'occupants' and not in full control, which puts the monastery's future in danger.
  3. This situation reflects a larger issue of how Egypt's government treats its Christian population, indicating ongoing struggles for religious freedom.

The Sad Saga of Bud Light

2986 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
💼 Business Marketing Branding Corporate culture Consumer behavior Economic Impact
  1. Bud Light was once America's favorite beer, but it lost its top spot after a marketing move focused on social issues. Many customers turned away from the brand.
  2. The shift towards diversity and inclusion in corporate strategies can sometimes backfire. For Bud Light, it cost them loyal customers and sales.
  3. It's important for companies to balance social goals with their business interests. Ignoring customer preferences can lead to serious repercussions.

Nellie Bowles: The Triumph of the Plastic Straw

2912 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Policy Public Perception Legislation Media influence Youth activism
  1. A 9-year-old created a big number about daily plastic straw use, which caught the attention of the media and sparked a movement.
  2. States and cities started banning plastic straws based on that big number, but many didn't question its accuracy.
  3. The shift from plastic to paper straws became a popular environmental push, even though some people found the paper straws less enjoyable.

This Is Peak Trump

1367 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Foreign Relations Legal issues Domestic Issues
  1. Trump has been experiencing a lot of successes lately, particularly in foreign policy and legal achievements. His supporters are feeling very positive about this winning streak.
  2. He is planning to sign an important tax and spending bill on July 4, which could solidify his political agenda. This timing is seen as very significant by his followers.
  3. Trump has proven to be effective in delivering on his promises, surprising many critics who underestimated him. His recent successes have boosted his standing with his base.

The Free Press Guide to Summer Reading

1321 implied HN points • 05 Jul 25
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Non-fiction Author interviews
  1. A great summer reading list includes a mix of thought-provoking books that go beyond typical beach reads. Check out recommendations like 'Sleep' by Honor Jones or 'Miracles and Wonder' by Elaine Pagels.
  2. Some recommended books challenge readers' views on history and current events. For instance, Douglas Murray’s 'On Democracies and Death Cults' offers insights into modern conflicts.
  3. Books can take you on unexpected journeys, whether it's through time in 'North Woods' or exploring cultural history in 'Cultural Amnesia.' Each book offers a unique perspective and immersive experience.

Things Worth Remembering: ‘A New World Order’

2851 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership History Diplomacy Government Foreign Policy
  1. George H.W. Bush's 'Chicken Kiev' speech was seen as controversial at the time but is now viewed as an exemplary model of diplomacy.
  2. The speech illustrated how America could support democracy in other countries without taking on the role of a global policeman.
  3. Reflecting on past leadership can help us understand and navigate current political issues more effectively.

Ancient Wisdom: Why I Dug Into My Family’s Past

899 implied HN points • 24 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Family History Aging Personal Reflection
  1. As people age, they often become more interested in their family history and origins. This curiosity helps them understand their place in the world and the legacy of their ancestors.
  2. Young people tend to focus on their personal lives and future goals, while older individuals reflect on their connections to previous generations.
  3. Living in a culture that values history, like the South, can influence one’s interest in their family background and stories. These narratives shape one's identity and perspective on life.

My Spare Embryos

236 implied HN points • 12 Dec 25
  1. IVF often leaves people with spare embryos, and deciding what to do with them can be a long, emotionally fraught process.
  2. People can form a deep aesthetic and existential connection to embryos, treating photos or images of them as meaningful and beautiful.
  3. Some parents memorialize embryos through art or keepsakes, which can feel like imposing meaning but also reflects the strong personal significance embryos hold.