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 Free Press, Tailored to You

2735 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24

The website has a fresh new look that makes it easier to use. Now, you can quickly find what interests you most.
You can listen to podcasts and watch videos more easily, thanks to dedicated sections on the site.
You can customize what you receive in your inbox. This means you’ll get the stories you care about right when they're published.

The Latino Democrats Who Flipped for Trump: A Report from the Border

3116 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24

Alberto Olivares switched from being a lifelong Democrat to a Republican because he felt that the Democrats, especially under Obama, weren't supporting law enforcement. Changing parties was hard for him since it felt like leaving his family's values behind.
Starr County, Texas, which is mostly Latino, used to be a stronghold for Democrats for over 130 years. But recently, it voted for Trump, marking a big shift in the area's political landscape.
Olivares noted that the Republican Party is becoming more like what the Democrats used to represent. Many voters now identify more with Republican ideas, creating a surprising political change in a traditionally Democratic area.

Could You Live Without a Computer? I Can.

1140 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Digital detox Mental health Technology impact Personal Growth

Living without a computer can lead to more free time and less distraction. It feels good to focus on real life instead of being pulled into the digital world.
Using technology in moderation can be really tough because devices are made to grab your attention all the time. It's better to find ways to minimize your tech use completely.
Switching to a less advanced phone helped improve one's life, but it’s still a challenge to resist using computers, especially when trying to write or stay productive.

What We’re Grateful For

2926 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24

🎭️ Culture Thanksgiving Gratitude Family Traditions American history

Thanksgiving is a unique American holiday where people take a moment to express gratitude for what they have. It's a time to pause, reflect, and appreciate the love and connections in our lives.
Even amid political divides, it’s important to remember the value of family gatherings and shared meals. Coming together can help bridge differences and create lasting memories.
Gratitude comes from various sources - from simple pleasures like good health, family, and friends, to shared experiences and creative innovations that improve our lives.

GOP ‘Divide’ over Israel Is Mostly Fiction

779 implied HN points • 05 Aug 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Foreign Policy Media Critique Legislation Public Opinion

Most Republicans strongly support Israel, and this unity is often overlooked by the media.
The supposed divide among Republicans regarding Israel is largely exaggerated and not reflective of their actual stance.
The real division on support for Israel is more evident among Democrats, despite what is commonly reported.

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Trump: Free the Hostages or ‘All Hell Will Break Out.’ Plus...

2142 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political News Government Policy Public Opinion Elections Media Criticism

Trump has issued a strong warning to Hamas, saying they must release all hostages by a certain deadline or there will be severe consequences. This has raised tensions in an already fragile ceasefire situation.
The conversation around cancel culture is changing, with some claiming it's over and discussing what might come next. People are concerned about where this shift could lead us in terms of public discourse.
There's a debate about whether Kanye West may need a conservatorship due to his troubling behavior. Some believe it's important to ensure he gets the help he needs while balancing concerns about autonomy and mental health.

How Long Will Trump’s Winning Streak Last? Plus…

996 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Policies Foreign affairs Political Commentary

Trump is currently experiencing a good streak in his presidency, with successful policies and international agreements. However, politics can quickly change, so he needs to stay prepared for challenges ahead.
Understanding Trump's foreign policy approach, he focuses on protecting American interests without being overly involved globally. He prefers allies who can defend themselves instead of relying too much on the U.S.
Socialism is popular among some young people today, but it's important to recognize the potential downsides. Real-life experiences, like long waits at government offices, can highlight the inefficiencies of a government-run system.

Elissa Slotkin Just Wants to Be ‘Normal.’ Will Her Fellow Democrats Listen?

2364 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Elections Government Political strategy Social Issues

Elissa Slotkin believes being a 'radical pragmatist' is key for the future of the Democratic Party. She wants to focus on practical solutions that resonate with everyday voters.
Slotkin's recent campaign was successful because she emphasized economic issues that truly matter to people, instead of getting caught up in political drama.
The Democratic Party is currently struggling to find a clear purpose and leadership to unite its members and appeal to voters, especially after significant losses to Republicans.

Why Is the National Book Award Going to a Publisher of Antisemitic Books?

2958 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24

W. Paul Coates is set to receive a National Book Award, even though he has published books that have antisemitic and homophobic themes. It's surprising that this isn't making more headlines.
Coates is known for promoting controversial ideas and pseudoscience that offend many, particularly Jewish and LGBTQ+ communities. This raises questions about the recognition he's getting.
The National Book Foundation is giving Coates the Literarian Award for his contributions to literature. This award typically honors significant literary achievements, making the choice more notable.

The Death of the Public Library. Plus. . .

932 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Immigration Public Policy Social Issues Crime

Public libraries are facing significant decline, often becoming homeless shelters, which discourages families and students from using them. It's sad to see a place that was once a community hub turn into something else.
People are becoming victims of identity theft, and this issue is tied to illegal immigration as some migrants need fake Social Security numbers to work. This adds another layer to the ongoing immigration debate.
Mark Swidan, who was wrongfully detained in a Chinese prison, is struggling to rebuild his life back in America after his release. His story highlights the challenges faced by people who have endured long imprisonments.

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

7169 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Race relations Civil Rights Movement Activism Equality Social justice

Clarence Jones had a close relationship with Martin Luther King Jr. and was able to write speeches that perfectly captured King's voice and tone.
Jones believes that the messages of Martin Luther King Jr., including radical nonviolence and building alliances across ethnic lines, have been forgotten in America.
Jones played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement by fundraising, helping with King's speeches, and forming alliances, emphasizing the importance of coalition support, especially from the American Jewish community.

H.R. McMaster: My Travels with Trump

2768 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Presidency National Security Foreign Policy Political Commentary Military Affairs

H.R. McMaster believes it's important for Americans to see all sides of Donald Trump's presidency, not just the good or the bad.
McMaster shares insights about his experiences during Trump's first foreign trip, highlighting how Trump thinks and makes decisions.
He's hosting a book club discussion about his book 'At War with Ourselves,' focusing on his time as National Security Adviser and the challenges faced during that period.

What Happened to Joe Biden the Moderate?

2392 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policies Leadership Public Opinion Political strategy

Joe Biden started his presidential campaign as a moderate, focusing on sensible policies and restoring America's soul. Most other Democratic candidates were leaning more towards progressive ideas.
Instead of moving towards the center during the general election, Biden formed unity task forces with progressive leaders. These task forces created policies that leaned more left than what he promised during his campaign.
In the end, Biden's desire for a transformational presidency led to low popularity, showing that his governing style didn't match his moderate campaign image.

Will New York Soon Make It Too Easy to Die?

1136 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Health Policy Medical Ethics Assisted Dying Social Issues

New York is considering a law that would allow assisted dying with no waiting period. This is different from other states that have waiting times.
Some people worry that making it too easy to die could turn suicide into a medical choice for those in crisis.
A family member shared their experience, saying they didn't want to suffer if diagnosed with a terminal illness. This highlights the personal impact of such laws.

‘I Won’t Treat Them. I’ll Kill Them.’

2026 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Antisemitism Healthcare Community Media Ethics

Two Australian nurses were caught on camera saying they wouldn't help Israeli patients and even suggested they deserved to die. This shocking behavior raises serious concerns about medical ethics.
Many Muslim community leaders in Australia have publicly defended the nurses' remarks, which has alarmed many people and sparked discussions about antisemitism in society.
The situation highlights a troubling trend where extremist views seem to gain support in certain communities, raising fears about the spread of hate and discrimination.

Trump’s Back. What Now?

2295 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Election Analysis Policy Changes Leadership Government actions

Trump's second inauguration was marked by dramatic actions, including pardoning people linked to the January 6 Capitol riot and bold proposals like taking back the Panama Canal.
His inaugural speech focused on a national revival linked to his comeback, promising to address issues like immigration and inflation while rejecting political norms.
There's an ongoing debate about TikTok's future and whether Trump will uphold the law in light of Congress's moves against the app, as he contrasts with the legal expectations set by his predecessor.

Germans Say ‘No’ to Immigration. Plus. . .

1966 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Immigration Populism Foreign Policy

In Germany's recent elections, the right-wing populist party AfD made big gains, highlighting public concern over immigration. Many voters want to stop mass immigration but prefer not to support AfD directly.
Trump's new policies are changing America's approach to Ukraine, which some view as a betrayal of both Ukraine and American values. Critics are worried about the potential consequences of this shift.
A small group held a vigil in New York for a recently killed terrorist leader, but many attendees did not even know his name. This raises questions about awareness and understanding of international issues among people.

Suzy Weiss: What Do Rich Dorks Buy?

899 implied HN points • 12 Jul 25

🎭️ Culture Arts Media Entertainment Fashion Trends

Rich people today often come from tech backgrounds, not traditional industries like gold or railroads. This shift is changing the way we think about wealth.
Tech entrepreneurs are using their money for various ambitious projects, from space exploration to changing biology. Their influence is reshaping many aspects of society.
People who were once seen as nerdy, like gamers and coders, are now some of the wealthiest individuals. Their success has transformed what it means to be successful in today's world.

What American Students Aren’t Taught About Slavery. Plus. . .

1043 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education History Legislation Social Issues Media

Many American students do not learn that slavery was not just an American issue but a global one. This limited perspective means they miss out on important historical truths.
There is a call for a better way to teach about slavery that recognizes its worldwide existence without downplaying the horrors of American slavery.
Juneteenth serves as a reminder to reflect on the legacy of slavery and the importance of educating young people about history accurately.

Things Worth Remembering: ‘We Shall Win the Tomorrows Before Us’

2837 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24

Many Americans feel uncertain about what to be thankful for this Thanksgiving due to issues like rising prices and increasing crime. It's a tough time, but gratitude can help shift our focus.
The idea that America is more divided than ever is exaggerated. Historically, we've faced much worse times, like the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement.
Political violence, such as JFK's assassination, has had lasting effects on trust in the government and has fueled conspiracy theories and division among the public.

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

6649 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24

🏥 Health & Wellness Therapy Gender Dysphoria Mental health Youth health

Independent publications and individual testimonies have been instrumental in shedding light on the complexities of 'gender-affirming' care.
The increase in lawsuits from young individuals highlights the significant consequences of life-altering treatments.
Therapist Tamara Pietzke's experience reveals concerns about the current trend of 'affirmative care' for youth with gender dysphoria, urging a reevaluation of therapeutic approaches.

Venezuela’s Oil Industry Is Not Hopeless

88 implied HN points • 11 Jan 26

The oil industry was devastated by neglect, theft, and economic collapse, but recent on-the-ground signs show recovery—new trucks, patrols for security, dollar-linked pay, and some fields doubling or tripling output.
Despite those gains, total production is still far below its past peak, at less than a third of 1990s levels, and many workers still need extra jobs to get by.
A larger revival could happen if foreign oil companies (notably U.S. firms) invest and sanctions are addressed, because the fields and basic infrastructure are largely ready and countries like China have helped keep exports flowing.

Peter Thiel and the Triumph of the Counter-Elites

2921 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24

Donald Trump has announced a new initiative called the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy.
There has been a cultural shift where outsiders like Peter Thiel, once criticized for supporting Trump, are now seen as part of a new wave of influential figures in politics and technology.
Thiel's investments have been very successful, and he believes that the next Trump administration will bring in antiestablishment figures to create significant changes in government and society.

The Dissident Beijing Can’t Break

686 implied HN points • 13 Aug 25

🌍 World Politics Human Rights Activism Authoritarianism Democracy International relations

Jimmy Lai is a key figure in the fight for democracy in Hong Kong and is currently facing a life sentence for his beliefs. His courage makes him an important symbol for freedom.
He ran a pro-democracy newspaper called Apple Daily for many years, advocating for human rights and democracy even after his financial resources were cut off.
Unlike many other activists, Lai chose to stay in Hong Kong to continue his fight against the Chinese Communist Party, showing dedication to his cause and his supporters.

Assad’s Fall Has Humiliated Washington

2633 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Middle East Administration Conflict

Syria's recent change in leadership happened despite the efforts of the Biden administration, not because of them. Many believe the U.S. played a minor role in this shift.
President Biden claims that the weakening of Assad's supporters like Iran and Russia is due to his policies, but many disagree with this view. There is a belief that these countries have lost power for other reasons.
Israel's actions in the region have been more impactful than U.S. influence. Some argue that Israel took bold steps that went against what the U.S. wanted, contributing significantly to the change in Syria.

The Real Hunter Biden Scandal

2703 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Scandals Justice System Government Influence Elections

Hunter Biden was pardoned by President Biden, which some see as a sign of favoritism. It raises questions about fairness in the justice system.
There’s a belief among some that certain people have more power and can avoid consequences for their actions. This idea was highlighted by a comment from Congressman Dean Phillips.
The manner in which the pardon was given is unusual, as it happened before Hunter Biden faced any sentencing, unlike past presidential pardons.

Are ‘Islamists in Charge of Britain’?

6241 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24

🌍 World Politics Antisemitism Democracy Extremism

There have been increased incidents of antisemitism and violence in London, causing safety concerns for Jewish schools and worshippers.
The British Parliament faced a situation where fear of Islamist violence influenced decision-making, leading to deviations from parliamentary norms.
The rise of Islamist extremism in Britain has created a pressing need for immediate and decisive action, including arrests and deportations of individuals inciting violence or religious hatred.

A Free Press Conversation with Natan Sharansky

2805 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24

Important figures are visiting _The Free Press_ to talk, showing it's becoming a notable newsroom. This includes people like politicians and writers.
Natan Sharansky, a significant historical figure, shared his experiences from Israel. He spoke about the ongoing struggles and losses that people are facing there.
Sharansky's life story reflects a long fight for liberty against tyranny. His journey from imprisonment to becoming a key Jewish leader is inspiring and important today.

Daniel Penny’s Innocence—and the Shame of Alvin Bragg. Plus. . .

2610 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Justice System Political Commentary Civil Rights Government Policy

Daniel Penny was found not guilty in a high-profile trial, raising questions about why he was prosecuted in the first place. The verdict was seen as a relief for Penny and his supporters.
There is concern over rising crime rates in Manhattan during Alvin Bragg's time as district attorney. Critics argue that his decisions have not effectively protected the public.
Entrepreneurs are leaving Norway due to high taxes on unrealized gains. This has been detrimental to business growth and has prompted some to move to more favorable locations.

The Photos That Exposed Biden’s Lies

2402 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political theory Political parties Media

Official photos have been released showing Joe Biden meeting with his son Hunter's business associates in China. This goes against Biden's previous claims that he never met these partners.
Hunter Biden was involved with BHR Partners, which received significant funding from Chinese entities, and he held a 10 percent stake in this company until at least 2017.
Joe Biden has consistently denied discussing business matters with Hunter or meeting his associates, even when confronted about evidence to the contrary.

Best of The Free Press: Don’t Lie

2448 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Political History Election Analysis Political narratives

Honesty is crucial in journalism, and it helps build trust. People prefer straightforward reporting over being misled or given spin.
There has been a dangerous trend where some journalists prioritize their agendas over truth. This shift has hurt the credibility of the media.
Understanding and sticking to the truth matters now more than ever. Good journalism can counteract the lies and misinformation that spread in society.

A Note from Bari—and Our Big Thanksgiving Deal

2712 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Journalism Public Opinion Political Analysis

The Free Press has grown to over 935,000 subscribers, showing strong support and trust from the audience. This growth is almost double compared to last year.
They have covered significant events like the presidential election, focusing on real issues and voices from everyday Americans, which has shaped their trusted reporting.
The organization is expanding its presence through documentaries, podcasts, and live events, aiming to engage with the community and enhance its media offerings.

We Need to Talk About China. Plus. . .

718 implied HN points • 05 Aug 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Defense Elections Economy Labor

China is becoming a big problem for the West, especially economically and militarily. Their control over important resources is concerning for many countries.
Taiwan should learn from Ukraine and focus on building strong defense capabilities to protect itself from potential threats.
The U.S. is making technology trade restrictions on China, but some argue these restrictions might backfire and harm American interests instead.

Is Gaza Starving? Searching for Truth in an Information War. Plus. . .

760 implied HN points • 28 Jul 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Media influence Conflict analysis Civil Rights Public Opinion

There is a serious food crisis in Gaza, with many people concerned about famine. However, it's tough to know the actual truth due to a lot of misinformation in the media.
Some images shared online are misleading. For example, a photo of a sick child was presented as evidence of starvation when the child's condition was unrelated to hunger.
Understanding the truth in conflicts like this is really important. Misinformation can impact people's perception and responses to the ongoing situation.

Jesse Singal: Bluesky Has a Death Threat Problem

2480 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24

🕹 Technology Social media Online safety Technology Regulation User Experience Digital Communication

Bluesky was thought to be a friendlier alternative to X, but it actually has a lot of hostile behavior and threats. Many users feel unsafe there.
There has been a huge spike in reports of violence and threats on Bluesky, especially after it gained a lot of new users. Moderation seems to be ineffective in handling these issues.
The culture of Bluesky is not as welcoming as many expected, and the site has serious problems with managing violent content and doxxing. Users need to be cautious when joining.

A New Free Press Podcast That Will Change How You Think

1057 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25

🎙 Podcasts Media Entertainment Culture Discussion Interviews

Coleman Hughes is a thoughtful and clear thinker on tough topics like race and politics. His insights, especially in uncertain times, are really valuable.
His podcast 'Conversations with Coleman' features discussions on a variety of important subjects, starting with his first episode that includes a talk about God and criticism of the Free Press.
New episodes of his podcast are released every Monday, available on popular platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, making it easy to listen regularly.

Why Israel Hit Iran Now

1029 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25

🌍 World Politics International relations Military Affairs Geopolitics Conflict Studies Nuclear policy

Israel has been focusing on Iran's nuclear program for over 20 years, making it a major target. They believe that taking military action could lead to significant changes in Iran's government.
Israel has started a large military operation aimed at destroying Iran's nuclear and missile capabilities. This includes targeting key leaders in Iran's military.
The success of this operation is still uncertain, and it will take time to see if Iran's defenses can withstand the attacks from Israel's forces.

Jed Rubenfeld: Is Trump’s Takeover of D.C. Lawful?

667 implied HN points • 12 Aug 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Law Public Policy Civil Rights

Trump has declared a crime emergency in D.C. and taken control of the police department, saying crime is out of control. This decision has raised a debate about its legality.
D.C.'s attorney general argues that there is no crime emergency and claims Trump's actions are unnecessary and unlawful. This shows a clear disagreement about the situation in the city.
Because D.C. has unique governance rules, Trump has more power there compared to other cities. This means he might legally be able to act as he is, at least for now.

The Surprising Pleasures of Widowhood

1057 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Aging Grief Relationships Personal Growth Wellness

Losing a partner can bring intense feelings, but it can also lead to unexpected happiness and personal growth. Many find that life after loss can be richer than they anticipated.
Being in a support group for caregivers is helpful, as it offers a safe space to share experiences and emotions with others who understand.
Cherishing the good memories and communicating love at the end can bring peace during difficult times and contribute to healing afterward.

Peggy Noonan on How to Save America

2666 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24

Peggy Noonan is praised for her ability to convey complex truths simply and effectively. She makes difficult journalism look easy with her clear writing style.
Noonan's columns, although written over the past eight years, feel timeless and relevant, showing her skill at capturing the essence of issues.
She expresses concern about the decline of standards in both politics and journalism, emphasizing the need for more serious and respectable leadership.