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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

WATCH: What Really Happened Between Daniel Penny and Jordan Neely

3649 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
  1. Two men met on the F train, leading to a serious incident that changed both their lives forever. Jordan Neely was a homeless man who was acting erratically, while Daniel Penny, a former Marine, intervened.
  2. Penny put Neely in a hold for six minutes, which ultimately led to Neely's death. This event has sparked a legal case where Penny could face serious time in prison if found guilty.
  3. The case has divided opinions among the public. Some see Penny as a vigilante who acted out of racial motives, while others view him as a hero who defended passengers from a perceived threat.

The Case of Justine Bateman—And Why Gen X Broke for Trump

3621 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
  1. Justine Bateman expressed frustration with political correctness and cancel culture, saying that people should be free to live their lives without fear of public backlash.
  2. The Gen X generation showed surprising support for Trump in the recent election, reflecting a shift in their attitudes towards political issues over the years.
  3. Bateman is eager to create new media, like a show similar to _Family Ties_, that explores different viewpoints and encourages open discussion, especially around controversial topics.

The Fall of Assad and What Comes Next in Syria

3612 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Syria International relations Conflict Dictatorship
  1. Bashar al-Assad, the dictator of Syria, has been overthrown after 24 years in power. This change is seen as a major event for the modern Middle East.
  2. Despite the cheers for his fall, there are concerns about the new leaders. Some of the rebel groups that took over were previously linked to more extreme factions like al-Qaeda.
  3. The departure of Assad raises questions about the future of Syria. It is uncertain if the new power dynamics will be better or worse for the country's people.

‘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.

Peggy Noonan: On Loving America

3533 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
  1. America is seen as a good and valuable country, representing progress in history. This idea reflects a belief in the country's unique role and achievements.
  2. The founding of America is viewed as a remarkable event, with the creators coming together at the right time with special talents. This is sometimes believed to be by chance or providence.
  3. A forthcoming book, 'A Certain Idea of America,' discusses various influences on the nation over the past decade, highlighting both positive and negative forces shaping America today.
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Why Gavin Newsom Will Never Be President

3514 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Political strategy Media influence Public Opinion
  1. Gavin Newsom is trying to elevate his political status, especially during conflicts with President Trump. He used a recent speech to push his narrative as a leader against Trump's policies.
  2. In his speech, Newsom made several statements that were criticized as dishonest or misleading. These claims were seen as attempts to manipulate public opinion about immigration enforcement.
  3. The reaction to Newsom's messages indicates that many voters are skeptical of his claims. People are looking closely at the truth behind political narratives.

When Iranian Missiles Interrupt Shabbat Dinner

3501 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Middle East Geopolitics Security Terrorism
  1. Living in a place with missile threats means having bomb shelters is very normal, even required for new buildings. It’s a way to feel safer in a dangerous environment.
  2. During tensions, everyday activities like hosting a dinner become acts of courage and normalcy. People still want to enjoy life despite the fear around them.
  3. When air raid sirens go off, some people can quickly get to their own safe spaces while others must rush to public shelters, highlighting a divide in safety.

Tom Holland on How Christianity Remade the World

3482 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Christianity History Philosophy Culture Society
  1. Christianity has had a huge influence on the Western world, shaping many ideas and values we hold today.
  2. Despite differing beliefs about specific miracles, the message of Jesus is recognized as incredibly powerful and enduring.
  3. Within just a few centuries, Christianity became the main religion of the Roman Empire, showing its rapid spread and acceptance.

A Mom Asked for Public School Board Records. They Charged Her $33 Million.

3426 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Transparency Public Policy Legal issues Civil Rights
  1. Parents are increasingly suing schools to find out what their children are learning. This shows a demand for transparency in education.
  2. Some schools are responding by suing parents to silence them. This creates a conflict between parents' rights to know and schools' desire to keep information private.
  3. A mom was quoted a shocking amount of over $33 million to access public school records. This highlights how expensive and complicated it can be to get information from schools.

The Prophet of Trump’s Second Term

3399 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Populism Foreign Policy Bureaucracy Administrative state
  1. Angelo Codevilla introduced important ideas about a 'ruling class' in America, suggesting that this group has too much power and operates against ordinary citizens. His thoughts on this have changed the way people talk about politics today.
  2. Codevilla's influence can be seen in many government changes during Trump's administration, including shifts in foreign policy and reductions in federal positions. His students and followers are now in key roles, actively working on his ideas.
  3. Key political phrases like 'Deep State' and 'administrative state' originated from Codevilla. These terms have shaped how many people understand and discuss the current political landscape.

Niall Ferguson: J.D. Vance Picked a Fight in Germany. Will He Get One in China?

3389 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political Commentary International relations Trade Relations Elections
  1. J.D. Vance is taking a bold approach by challenging foreign powers, notably at the Munich Security Conference. This kind of confrontation could signal a shift in U.S. foreign policy.
  2. America's previous attempts to provoke negotiations with other countries often went unanswered. Historically, many nations haven't reacted strongly, showing a lack of willingness to engage.
  3. The current administration seems to be looking for conflicts to assert its stance on the global stage. This strategy might change how the U.S. is perceived internationally.

Poetic Justice for Jay Bhattacharya

3389 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Pandemic response Public Health Policy Debate Science communication Medical Ethics
  1. Jay Bhattacharya was a respected Stanford professor until the pandemic changed everything. He proposed focusing on protecting vulnerable people instead of broad lockdowns.
  2. With support from other scientists, he created the Great Barrington Declaration, advocating for 'focused protection' during Covid-19. This approach aimed to keep society more open while safeguarding those at risk.
  3. Despite facing harsh criticism and attacks on his character for his views, Bhattacharya's ideas are gaining more attention, especially as he may soon lead the NIH.

Andrew Roberts: The Historical Case for Trump’s Gaza Plan

3366 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Global Governance
  1. Countries that start aggressive wars often lose their sovereignty or governments when they are defeated. This is shown in history with several examples.
  2. The world often assumes the Palestinians still have the right to govern themselves, but their actions in conflict could change that.
  3. Historical precedents show that unprovoked attacks lead to significant consequences for the attackers, often resulting in loss of power and territory.

What Both Sides Get Wrong About Immigration

3366 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Law Civil Rights Social Issues Political Commentary
  1. Immigrants face a tough choice: stay their original selves or change to fit in. The U.S. allows them to be who they are while also being part of the country.
  2. It's important to draw a clear line between legal and illegal immigrants. Following the legal process is crucial to gain the benefits of living in the U.S.
  3. The recent immigration riots raise questions about who was really involved and what they want. Some may not truly wish to follow the rules if they show loyalty to their home countries instead.

Why These Christmas Songs Could Only Be Written in America

3348 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Music Tradition Religion Celebration History
  1. Many famous Christmas songs, like 'Let It Snow!' and 'The Christmas Song', are not about religious themes but focus on winter, romance, and festive activities.
  2. These beloved songs were often written by Jewish Americans, blending their cultural influences into the music that celebrates Christmas in America.
  3. Even if someone doesn't celebrate Christmas, the music can still be enjoyed as a part of the holiday spirit and tradition.

As Christians Are Slaughtered, the World Looks Away

3334 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International Conflict Human Rights Terrorism Media Coverage
  1. Over 200 Christians were killed in Yelwata, Nigeria, during a nighttime attack by Islamist militants. Many victims included women and children.
  2. The massacre occurred while the community sought refuge, thinking they would be safer in Yelwata. They had already fled from other violent incidents.
  3. The media largely ignored this tragic event, raising concerns about the lack of coverage on violence against Christians worldwide.

On Killing Turkeys

3315 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
  1. The process of slaughtering animals can be shocking and requires careful handling to avoid stressing them out. It's important to learn and practice the skills needed to do it right.
  2. Raising animals for food involves difficult realities that can clash with a love for those animals. Many people struggle with balancing their affection for animals and their desire to eat meat.
  3. Knowing where your food comes from and how it was treated is important for many people. Some prefer to raise their own animals to ensure they are raised and killed humanely.

What Porn Took from Us

3283 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Media Parenting Youth Trauma
  1. Many children today are exposed to porn at a very young age, which can shape their understanding of intimacy in harmful ways.
  2. The exposure to hardcore porn isn't just a casual experience; it can be a form of abuse that affects children's mental health and development.
  3. While society discusses various traumas, the impact of porn on young people is often overlooked, although it can have lasting effects on their lives.

Coleman Hughes: My Mom—and the Case for Assisted Death

3246 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Medical Ethics Public Policy Health care Patient rights
  1. The author believes people should have the choice to end their suffering through assisted death. Personal experiences can shape our views on complex topics like this.
  2. Assisted dying laws have been discussed globally, with countries like the Netherlands, Canada, and the UK considering legislation. It's important to explore these issues from different perspectives.
  3. The story of the author's mother shows that even the healthiest people can face serious illnesses like cancer. This highlights the unpredictability of life and health.

A Simple Litmus Test for RFK Jr.’s Ideas

3232 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
  1. Some American critics are worried about Robert F. Kennedy Jr. being nominated for a health position. They believe he has controversial views on important health issues.
  2. Not all of RFK Jr.'s ideas are bad; some are worth discussing and may even align with practices in other countries.
  3. When considering RFK Jr.'s opinions, it's helpful to ask if other nations agree with him, which can lead to more open discussions.

The Canadians Who Say: ‘Trump, Take My Country—Please!’

3227 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Opinion International relations National Identity Elections Media
  1. Some Canadians feel so frustrated with their country that they joke about wanting to become part of the United States. They believe life has become stagnant and see more opportunities in America.
  2. People like Ryan Hemsley express a longing for change and believe that becoming the 51st state could bring a fresh start and revitalization.
  3. Discontent with the current political leadership in Canada is leading some to fantasize about a different kind of future under the U.S. government.

I Took Religion Out of Christmas. I Regret It.

3218 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Religion Traditions Family Identity Values
  1. Taking religion out of Christmas can remove a sense of beauty and structure from the holiday. People often miss the special traditions and feelings that religion brings to the celebration.
  2. The nativity set symbolizes the importance of heritage and memories tied to Christmas. Items like this serve as reminders of cherished moments during childhood.
  3. Many people may not realize how much spiritual elements contribute to the overall joy and meaning of Christmas until they're absent from the celebration. Reflecting on these aspects can lead to feelings of regret.

Hamas Murdered Their Son. What Do They Think of the Ceasefire?

3134 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict International relations Human Rights Terrorism
  1. Three women were recently released after being held hostage by Hamas for 15 months, marking the start of a ceasefire. This exchange includes bringing back some Israeli captives in return for Palestinian prisoners.
  2. Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a young Israeli man, was taken by Hamas during an attack at a music festival where many were killed. His fate was uncertain for a long time, which caused great distress to his family.
  3. The ongoing situation involves deep emotions, with the families of the hostages expressing their feelings about ceasefires and the impact on their loved ones. They seek answers and hope for peace in a troubled region.

Victor Davis Hanson: Can Trump Troll His Way to a Peace Deal in Ukraine?

3130 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Debate International relations Conflict analysis Media Criticism Historical context
  1. There is a debate among conservatives about Trump's comments on Ukraine and its president, Zelensky. Some believe Trump's words were inappropriate, while others argue the historical situation is different.
  2. Niall Ferguson criticized Trump's approach by referencing George H.W. Bush's strong response to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait. Ferguson felt Trump should not have called Zelensky a dictator.
  3. J.D. Vance defended Trump by saying that the situations facing Trump and Bush were not the same. He suggested that entering a war against a nuclear power is more complicated than dealing with Iraq's weaker military.

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

3116 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

TGIF: Monitoring the Situation

3116 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Current Events Foreign Policy Media Political Commentary War
  1. There is an ongoing war between Israel and Iran, with significant military actions being taken by both sides. This conflict is real and escalating, not just rhetoric.
  2. Discussions in the U.S. about race and gender are getting heated, especially with debates involving public figures like Whoopi Goldberg. These conversations show different perspectives on what it means to face inequality.
  3. Maintaining independent journalism is costly, highlighting the need for support from readers. It's important to recognize the financial challenges that come with providing investigative news.

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.

Facebook’s Fact-Checkers Changed the Way I See Tech—and Speech—Forever

3093 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Big Tech Media influence Censorship Social media
  1. Fact-checking on social media can drastically affect the visibility of certain stories. Sometimes, a story can go viral and then suddenly lose all traction because it's flagged as misinformation.
  2. There are alternative theories about major events, like Covid's origins, that may be dismissed initially but can gain credibility over time. It's important to keep an open mind to different viewpoints.
  3. The way tech companies manage information can shape public discourse and control which narratives are heard. This raises questions about free speech and the power of online platforms.

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.

‘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 Other American Border Towns

3083 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics State Politics Border issues Local Governance
  1. Churubusco is a small town in upstate New York, very different from the bustling cities like New York City. It's a place where life is quieter and more rural.
  2. The town feels isolated, especially since it's right on the border with Canada, making it easy to accidentally cross into another country. This adds a layer of caution to everyday activities.
  3. People in upstate New York often feel disconnected from the political decisions made by the more populated areas downstate, which can create frustration about representation and governance.

How a French Whale Made $85 Million off Trump’s Win

3065 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
  1. A trader named Théo placed a massive $80 million bet on Trump winning the election after conducting a unique poll. He believed this poll found hidden support for Trump among voters who typically don't share their true preferences.
  2. Théo used a method called 'social circle polling,' asking people who they thought their friends were voting for. This approach offered insights that traditional polls missed.
  3. Despite widespread predictions of a close race, Théo's approach helped him feel confident enough to put a huge amount of money on the line, showcasing the potential for unconventional polling methods.

The Hostage Deal Is the Price of Israel’s Failures

3046 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Middle East Conflict resolution Peace negotiations Geopolitics
  1. Israel is close to making a deal with Hamas to release captives. The first step involves freeing 33 hostages, including children and the elderly.
  2. The deal has three phases that could lead to the end of the conflict, but each phase relies on the success of the previous one.
  3. If the deal works, it will bring mixed feelings in Israel, with joy for the hostages' return but also anger and disappointment about the circumstances.

Reading Homer After October 7

2990 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Education Art History Politics
  1. Teaching classic texts like the 'Iliad' can take on new meaning when the students are soldiers. They relate deeply to the themes of war and sacrifice in the stories.
  2. Personal connections to war can be profound, as seen when students like Amir transition from studying literature to facing real-life battles.
  3. The contrast between a warrior's public role and their private life is significant. Characters like Hector highlight the dual nature of being committed to duty while also longing for family and peace.

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.

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

2958 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

Niall Ferguson: Israel’s Attack Restores the Credibility of the West

2944 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Military Strategy Geopolitics Middle East
  1. Israel recently launched a major military operation against Iran, marking a new phase in their ongoing conflict. This involved air strikes and targeted assassination strikes against key Iranian military figures.
  2. The attacks were extensive, with hundreds of strikes involving around 200 fighter jets. Israel's approach shows they are willing to engage in significant military action.
  3. Iran's leadership has responded aggressively, warning of painful retaliation, and there are ongoing fears of escalating violence within Israel itself.

What We’re Grateful For

2926 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Thanksgiving Gratitude Family Traditions American history
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Gratitude comes from various sources - from simple pleasures like good health, family, and friends, to shared experiences and creative innovations that improve our lives.

The Curious Case of Luigi Mangione. Plus...

2921 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Legislation Political parties Public Health
  1. Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, was from a wealthy background and seemed normal to those who knew him. His social media showed no extreme political views but did include a controversial book.
  2. Mangione went through a tumultuous time after back surgery, which might have contributed to his change in behavior. His arrest and the context surrounding it have led to public speculation about his motives.
  3. Despite his serious charges, some people online celebrated Mangione, seeing him as a kind of anti-hero against the healthcare system, illustrating the complex reactions to his actions.

Peter Thiel and the Triumph of the Counter-Elites

2921 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
  1. Donald Trump has announced a new initiative called the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.