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

Bari’s Picks of the Week: Will We or Won’t We?

755 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Foreign Policy Political alliances National Security Legislation
  1. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has raised important questions about U.S. involvement, particularly regarding Trump's potential actions. There's a lot of uncertainty about how it will play out.
  2. There's a noticeable split within the right-wing community, with influential figures like Tucker Carlson warning against war. This shows a disagreement that could affect Trump's support from his base.
  3. Unexpected alliances are forming in Washington, such as between AOC and Marjorie Taylor Greene. They both oppose American involvement in Iran, highlighting how certain issues can bridge partisan divides.

This Progressive Has a Plan to Win Trump’s Base. Steve Bannon Calls It ‘Brilliant.’

1493 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Election Campaigns Public Policy Political Discourse Media Relations
  1. Ro Khanna wants to connect with voters who feel ignored, especially those who support Trump. He believes he can win them over with the right message.
  2. There was a heated exchange between Khanna and J.D. Vance about a controversial figure who made racist comments. Khanna thinks it's important to discuss these issues openly.
  3. Khanna feels that the political climate should encourage respectful conversations rather than insults. He values honest dialogue over divisive arguments.

How Bad Therapy Hijacked Our Nation’s Schools

4609 implied HN points • 27 Feb 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Therapy Schools Children Education
  1. American kids are facing increasing mental health challenges despite being considered the most privileged generation, with a significant percentage considering suicide, indicating a worrisome trend.
  2. The focus on mental health by parents and schools may be inadvertently contributing to the rise in anxiety and depression among children, highlighting a possible correlation between therapy culture and the decline in youth mental well-being.
  3. The prevalence of 'bad therapy' practices, such as excessive emotional check-ins and emphasizing social-emotional learning over traditional academic subjects, is suggested to be exacerbating emotional distress in kids, showing a need for reevaluation of current approaches in schools.

Should Your Husband Tie Your Shoes?

626 implied HN points • 16 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Social Trends Feminism Relationships Dating Media Critique
  1. The term 'princess treatment' refers to traditional acts of chivalry like opening doors and giving flowers, which some young women are celebrating today. It's basically a fun way to rebrand old-school dating manners.
  2. Social media has sparked a lot of controversy around this concept, with some people praising it while others criticize it as outdated or even harmful. The discussions are often exaggerated to get more attention online.
  3. A TikToker named Courtney Palmer has taken this trend further by promoting extreme ideas of 'princess treatment,' like refusing to walk in the rain or even talk to restaurant staff. This has led to a big backlash and more debate in the media.

At High School Debates, Debate Is No Longer Allowed

8068 implied HN points • 25 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Debate Judges High School Paradigms
  1. High school debate should encourage students to challenge ideas, question assumptions, and think creatively.
  2. Judges in high school debate competitions are increasingly biased, which can affect how students make their arguments and participate.
  3. The shift towards ideological judging in high school debate may discourage students from expressing diverse viewpoints and engaging in open conversations.
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Ban Masking Now

1734 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Crime Public Safety Civil Rights Protests
  1. There's a call to reinstate anti-masking laws because masks can help criminals hide their identity. This relates to incidents of violence in cities like New York and concerns about safety.
  2. The repeal of the anti-masking law has reportedly led to more crime and intimidation, especially against specific groups on college campuses. This highlights the negative impact of masking in certain contexts.
  3. Some believe that banning masks during protests and other public events can help prevent crimes and maintain safety, similar to historical laws that targeted groups like the KKK. The debate continues on whether such measures would be effective today.

One Embryo. Three Parents. The Future Is Already Here. Plus. . .

588 implied HN points • 24 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Law Society Elections Civil Rights
  1. A new medical technique allows an embryo to be created using one man's sperm and two women's eggs. This raises big questions about what it means to be human and the future of genetic manipulation.
  2. There are concerns about the distribution of $100 million raised for LA fire victims, as people are now wondering where that money actually went.
  3. Engaging with AI, like chatting with a chatbot, can highlight what makes us unique as humans and the need to offer what machines can't.

Salman Rushdie: ‘I Was Dying.’ Plus. . .

1479 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Legislation Political culture
  1. Salman Rushdie faced the man who attacked him, describing the terrible moment he was stabbed and thought he was dying. It was a painful and dramatic court appearance for him after years of threats.
  2. The National Endowment for Democracy is struggling financially due to funding blocks, which could hurt important U.S. efforts abroad. This situation raises concerns about its impact on promoting democracy worldwide.
  3. Vice President J.D. Vance gave a strong speech on AI during a trip to Paris, highlighting America's lead in technology and the benefits it brings. He emphasized the importance of not overregulating AI, showcasing a new approach under the current administration.

The Life and Death of the Oldest Hostage in Gaza

1391 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict Human Rights International relations Security
  1. Shlomo Mantzur was a caring father and grandfather who loved spending time with his family. He raised his children to be optimistic and focused on the present.
  2. He was kidnapped at the age of 85 during a violent attack in Israel, becoming the oldest known hostage in the conflict. Many people, including soldiers, expressed a determination to bring him home safely.
  3. Mantzur's early life in Iraq included some happy memories, but he often didn't talk much about his past. His daughters remember him as someone who enjoyed making art and sharing treats with them.

What DEI Isn’t

1474 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Politics Race Culture Social Issues Identity
  1. DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) isn't just about hiring minorities for the sake of it. It's more about creating an inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives.
  2. The discussion around DEI often misses the point of what true inclusion means in practice. It's not only about having diverse faces in a workplace.
  3. Real inclusion involves actively engaging with and understanding different backgrounds, rather than superficially checking off boxes. It's about making everyone feel genuinely welcome.

Donald Trump 2.0

1623 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Democracy Public Opinion Political Analysis
  1. Donald Trump is starting his second term as president and this time has a clear mandate to act, likely bringing a new energy to his leadership style.
  2. The Democratic Party is losing support among minority voters, and it needs to listen more to the concerns of working-class people of color to win them back.
  3. The internet's influence on politics has led to significant shifts, with figures like Trump using effective public speech to gain and maintain power in a complex political landscape.

Trudeau’s Not the Only One to Blame

1711 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Leadership Public Opinion Election Commentary International relations
  1. Trudeau became Prime Minister in 2015, bringing hope for a new progressive era in Canada. Many Canadians had high expectations for his leadership from the start.
  2. Despite his popularity, there were concerns that his charisma overshadowed his political substance. Some people were skeptical about his ability to handle the country's economy effectively.
  3. Criticism of Trudeau was not common early on, as most people favored his youthful image and promises. However, skepticism about his policies and the potential shift toward socialism started to arise.

The iPhone Update That Could Wreck Political Fundraising

537 implied HN points • 03 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Fundraising Campaigns Technology Messaging
  1. A new iPhone feature will let users filter messages from unknown senders, making it harder for political campaigns to reach voters by text.
  2. This change could cost political campaigns a lot of money, as they rely heavily on text messages for fundraising.
  3. Political operatives are worried that this feature could drastically reduce their ability to communicate with potential donors.

Some Say AI Is the Greatest Invention of All Time. I Don’t Get It.

1553 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Artificial Intelligence Innovation Silicon Valley Economic Impact
  1. Many people believe AI is a game-changer, but it's mainly hype and not a real solution to life's problems. AI won't solve the everyday struggles we all face.
  2. The conversation around AI often seems disconnected from reality, with exaggerated claims about its impact. Recent events, like falling stock prices for AI companies, highlight that the excitement may not match what's happening in the real world.
  3. While some powerful figures praise AI as a major invention, skepticism remains. It's important to question if AI really lives up to the lofty expectations set by its advocates.

Mathias Döpfner: Make Germany More Jewish Again

2123 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
  1. A recent mob in Amsterdam attacked Jews, showing a rise in antisemitism in Europe. This violence especially targeted supporters of an Israeli soccer team.
  2. Since the rise in violence after October 7, 2023, many European Jews are thinking about leaving. The Jewish population is already low and may shrink even more.
  3. Germany and other countries need to do more to keep Jewish people safe and encourage them to stay. They should also welcome Jews who want to move there.

The Evolution of Marco Rubio. Plus...

1641 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Elections Government Policy Media
  1. Marco Rubio has shifted his stance from a hawkish perspective to a more realist approach regarding U.S. foreign policy, focusing on opportunities in war-torn regions.
  2. Biden's $42 billion broadband program aimed to provide internet access to rural areas has faced major setbacks due to bureaucratic issues and regulatory challenges.
  3. A researcher argues that factors beyond climate change contribute to events like California wildfires, suggesting a need for a more balanced view on climate issues.

Is Anyone Worth A Billion Dollars? Plus. . .

533 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Legislation Public Policy Activism
  1. There is a fierce competition to hire top AI experts, and some companies are paying massive sums for their skills. It's amazing to see AI professionals being offered contracts worth hundreds of millions or even billions.
  2. Mark Zuckerberg envisions creating AI companions that could really understand and assist us in our lives. People are curious about how this technology will work and what impact it will have on our daily living.
  3. Recent changes in Apple’s features might disrupt how political fundraising is done, possibly leading to changes in communication for politicians and their supporters.

The Family That Never Came Home. Plus. . .

1405 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Political parties Government International relations
  1. Hamas returned the bodies of four Israeli hostages who died in captivity, including young children. This tragic event highlights the deep emotional toll of ongoing conflicts.
  2. Bernard-Henri Lévy argues that Europe needs its own military, as the reliance on the United States is becoming less viable. He believes it's time for Europe to take charge of its own security.
  3. There's a concern that the extreme positions on both the online left and right in politics can push normal voters away. Moderation and balance are needed to keep the political landscape stable.

The Bride of ‘Chinese Frankenstein’—and the Race to Make Designer Babies

505 implied HN points • 11 Aug 25
🔬 Science Gene-editing Biotechnology Ethics Medical Research
  1. He Jiankui claims to be a pioneer of gene editing, but his past actions have earned him a bad reputation. He created the first gene-edited babies, which was condemned by many as unethical.
  2. The CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing tool was developed by Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuelle Charpentier, but He used it in a controversial way without their collaboration.
  3. Now out of prison, He plans to open a lab in Austin, Texas, where he wants to research Alzheimer’s in hopes of applying gene editing in the future.

Best of The Free Press: We’re All Gonna Make It

1799 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Travel Philosophy Parenting
  1. Even in tough times, there's a sense of optimism that things can get better. It's about hoping for change and taking action instead of giving in to despair.
  2. People are finding joy in unexpected places, like celebrating together even when plans go wrong. It's about making the best out of challenging situations.
  3. There’s a shift in how young people view education, with many choosing southern colleges over prestigious Ivy League schools for a more enjoyable experience and a different environment.

Is Elon Musk the New Ross Perot?

649 implied HN points • 08 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Elections Campaigns Political Reform Billionaires
  1. Elon Musk is trying to start a new political party called America Party, similar to how Ross Perot started the Reform Party years ago. People are curious about what this party will really do.
  2. Musk believes both Republicans and Democrats are not addressing the important issues, like the country's debt. He wants to bring change from outside traditional politics.
  3. There are still a lot of questions about Musk's new political venture, like whether he has done the necessary paperwork to officially start the party. Until then, it's unclear how serious this effort really is.

The Price of Flour Shows the Hunger Crisis in Gaza

575 implied HN points • 24 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Human Rights Global Security Humanitarian Issues
  1. Gaza is facing a serious hunger crisis due to rising food prices, especially flour, which is a crucial basic need for people. Immediate action is necessary to prevent mass starvation.
  2. Research shows that the current situation in Gaza is much worse than what has been claimed in the past, indicating real concerns for residents' survival.
  3. The findings from experts like Yannay Spitzer highlight the urgent need for attention and change in the humanitarian efforts in Gaza.

How to Fix Immigration. Plus. . .

2035 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
  1. Reihan Salam talks about the immigration problem and how it can be managed better. He believes it's important to balance welcoming newcomers with ensuring order and fairness.
  2. Yale students feel limited by the dominant liberal views on campus and actually wish they could have the same resilience as their conservative peers. They think facing opposing opinions helps build stronger arguments.
  3. In the trial of Daniel Penny, tensions arise as he tries to defend his actions after a fatal incident on the subway. The case raises questions about whether he acted like a hero or as a vigilante.

Inside the Battle over Trump’s Foreign Policy

2100 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
  1. Donald Trump is starting his second term, and his foreign policy choices are vital. The people he picks for key roles will shape America's role in the world.
  2. California is shifting its approach to crime after years of issues. Voters have shown support for tougher measures and elected leaders who promise to prioritize safety.
  3. A new group of Trump supporters is emerging, differing from the past, and this could change the MAGA landscape. It's important to recognize this shift as it could impact future elections.

A Boy Went for a Walk. His Mom Was Charged with ‘Reckless Conduct.’

2017 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
  1. Brittany Patterson was arrested at her home by police, despite asking for a moment to finish her phone call. This shows how urgent situations can escalate quickly, even when someone is trying to communicate.
  2. She was charged with 'reckless endangerment' while her children were inside the house. It highlights the serious nature of the charges and how they can affect families.
  3. Patterson had to go through the upsetting process of being handcuffed and taken to jail in front of her son. This can be frightening and traumatic for children to witness their parent being arrested.

Introducing a New Saturday Series: The Prophets

4382 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
🚌 Education Technology Literature Philosophy History Media
  1. Marshall McLuhan's insights into the impact of electric technology on society were ahead of his time, making him a visionary from the past.
  2. McLuhan believed that new electronic media changes the way people use their senses, affecting how they think and respond, leading to new identities and societal forms.
  3. Despite not being universally understood, McLuhan worked to empower people to understand and choose how they engage with technology in their lives.

Did Iran Just Sneak Out Critical Nuclear Material from Fordow?

709 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Nuclear policy Middle East Military Action Diplomacy
  1. Iran moved 16 cargo trucks to its Fordow nuclear site just before a US attack, sparking concerns about their contents.
  2. Experts worry that Iran may have secretly relocated critical nuclear materials before the bombing.
  3. The US's military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities were claimed to be a success, but the situation is more complex than it seems.

The Deep Roots of Irish Antisemitism

1813 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Antisemitism Middle East Human Rights Historical Analysis
  1. Ireland's criticism of Israel has grown significantly, becoming more intense than other countries, including some in the Arab world.
  2. The Israeli government decided to close its embassy in Ireland, citing the country’s extreme stance against Israel.
  3. The roots of Irish antisemitism are highlighted through personal family history and the historical context of Ireland's relationship with the Jewish community.

Can the Fed Keep Its Independence? Plus. . .

542 implied HN points • 30 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Government Political parties Public Policy
  1. The Federal Reserve has maintained its independence despite pressure from President Trump. This is important for maintaining stable financial policies.
  2. A Democrat is proposing a law to remove older members of Congress if they show signs of senility, sparking discussions about age and leadership in politics.
  3. Comparisons between blue and red states reveal differences in governance and efficiency, highlighting how regulations can impact everyday activities.

TGIF: TimHouthi Chalamet

4771 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Media Coverage Terrorism
  1. Trump's victory in Iowa solidifies his frontrunner status for the Republican nomination and next presidency.
  2. Media outlets like CNN and MSNBC are choosing not to air Trump speeches, leading to speculation about their declining relevance.
  3. The Biden administration has classified the Houthis as terrorists, given their violent actions in the Red Sea.

Michael Oren: Trump Takes a Wrecking Ball to the Middle East Status Quo

1451 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East International relations Diplomacy U.S. foreign policy Geopolitics
  1. Trump believes the main issue in the Middle East isn't a Palestinian state, pushing against decades of U.S. policy. He argues that a different approach is needed.
  2. He proposed that the U.S. could take control of Gaza and develop it, suggesting Palestinians could relocate to another country. This idea has sparked both support and backlash.
  3. Trump aims for peace in the region without a Palestinian state, similar to prior agreements with other Arab nations. Critics warn this could lead to more conflict and displacement.

The Abstainer in Chief Gets Friendly With Marijuana

97 implied HN points • 21 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Drug policy Executive orders Federal Law Criminal Justice Healthcare policy Economic Policy Regulatory reform
  1. The president, who doesn’t drink or smoke, signed an executive order to reschedule marijuana and speed up federal review.
  2. Rescheduling could loosen regulations, reduce tax burdens for cannabis companies, and open the door to federal recognition of medical marijuana.
  3. The move breaks with traditional Republican drug-policy stances and has unsettled some conservative allies, even as the cannabis industry has long leaned toward Democrats and progressives.

Bari Weiss: The Holiday from History Is Over

4196 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Israel Middle East Conflict War
  1. The ordinary citizens of Israel demonstrated remarkable heroism and courage during times of tragedy and conflict, embodying a spirit of resilience and sacrifice.
  2. The harrowing events of October 7 in Israel served as a wake-up call about the reality of war and the importance of defending a free society.
  3. The experience in Israel prompts reflection on the universal themes of courage, sacrifice, and readiness to defend one's home and values, posing important questions about individual and societal responses to crisis.

‘You Can Taste the Fires in the Back of Your Throat’

1627 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🌞 Climate & Environment Wildfires Disaster Response Environmental Policy Climate change
  1. Disasters can change a community forever, marking a point where everything feels different. People will remember the day before and the day after as a significant divide in their lives.
  2. Fires can spread quickly, affecting homes and neighborhoods, often forcing families to evacuate urgently. Smoke and visible flames can create a sense of urgency and fear.
  3. The emotional toll of losing a place of worship or gathering is profound. It can leave a community feeling lost and in need of support during recovery.

Biden’s Transgender Prison Policy Goes to Trial

1590 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Law Gender Rights Policy Judiciary
  1. Rhonda Fleming, a prisoner, argues that sharing facilities with transgender women violates her privacy rights. She has been in prison for Medicare fraud and feels unsafe with male inmates.
  2. She has filed a lawsuit against the Federal Bureau of Prisons focusing on this issue. This case is the first of its kind to go to trial, making it significant.
  3. Fleming's lawsuit highlights ongoing debates about transgender policies in prisons and their impact on inmates' rights and safety. The trial could set important precedents for similar cases in the future.

The January 6 Pardons and the Rule of Law

1534 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Law Elections Political parties Civil Rights
  1. Donald Trump has pardoned many people involved in the January 6 Capitol riot, including those who assaulted police. This move has raised questions about the fairness of justice for violent actions.
  2. Some Republican leaders believe that only peaceful protesters should be pardoned, indicating a divide in opinions about accountability for violence.
  3. The mass pardoning contrasts with previous statements from officials who suggested a more selective approach to granting pardons for the events of that day.

The Absurd Genius of Netflix Christmas Films

1743 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Film Media Holidays Trends Popular culture
  1. Netflix's holiday films, like 'Hot Frosty,' are intentionally over-the-top and silly. They embrace a kind of absurdity that attracts viewers despite being labeled as bad.
  2. Despite awful reviews, these films become hugely popular, sometimes hitting top viewership numbers on Netflix. People enjoy them even when critics don't.
  3. This phenomenon shows how different audiences have varying tastes. Some viewers love the escapism and fun of these cheesy holiday movies.

Bari’s Picks of the Week: Heroes, Radicals, and Gen-Z’s Hottest Show

607 implied HN points • 11 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Public Policy Political Commentary Social Issues
  1. There was a major flooding disaster in Texas that claimed over 120 lives. Many believed it was avoidable because the area had a history of such floods and lacked proper warning systems.
  2. The consulting industry might be declining due to government cost-cutting and advancements in AI. This change could reshape how businesses operate and affect many jobs.
  3. Elon Musk is starting a new political party, but not many people are taking it seriously. Analysts think there are big challenges ahead for his political ambitions.

The Wall Street Democrat Who Became MAGA’s Favorite Money Man

477 implied HN points • 12 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Change Elections Political Finance Party Dynamics
  1. Omeed Malik shifted from being a lifelong Democrat to a supporter of MAGA, driven by his belief that the Democratic Party abandoned core American values. He felt he had to change sides because of what he perceived as a betrayal by the party.
  2. Malik is now closely associated with prominent MAGA figures like Donald Trump Jr., and he is involved in significant business ventures, such as the opening of the firearms retailer GrabAGun on the stock exchange.
  3. His transformation highlights the intersection of politics, money, and power, showing how individuals can pivot dramatically in their beliefs and alliances based on changing political landscapes.