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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

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
  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.

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.

How to Like Things More

2861 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Food Music Literature Entertainment
  1. You can learn to enjoy things more by practicing. Like any skill, enjoying experiences takes effort and attention.
  2. Focus on the details that make something special. Instead of just noticing the obvious, try to find the layers beneath the surface.
  3. Sometimes, it's about shifting your perspective. Looking at different aspects of what you like can deepen your appreciation and make the experience more rewarding.

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.

Uri Berliner: What Congress Should Ask NPR’s Chief

2837 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Trust Journalism Ethics
  1. Public radio needs to address its decline in trust among listeners, as many feel it has become biased and focused too much on specific issues.
  2. There have been missteps in covering important stories, such as dismissing the lab leak theory and overlooking the Hunter Biden laptop story.
  3. If NPR wants continued support from taxpayers, leaders should be ready to answer some tough questions about their approach to news coverage.
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Things Worth Remembering: ‘We Shall Win the Tomorrows Before Us’

2837 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

How Biden Screwed the Steelworkers

2833 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Labor Economics National Security
  1. Biden blocked Nippon Steel's $14.9 million purchase of U.S. Steel, claiming it was for national security reasons. This decision upset many steelworkers who supported the deal.
  2. While Biden aimed to keep the steel industry American-owned, his action might actually harm the industry and cost jobs.
  3. The motivation behind blocking the sale seems to blend political strategy with a nostalgic view of unions, but it risks hurting union workers and the local economy.

Christopher Caldwell: The Biggest Policy Change of the Century

2810 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy change Affirmative Action Civil Rights Executive orders Trump administration
  1. Trump's decision to repeal affirmative action is seen as a massive shift in U.S. policy, more impactful than healthcare reforms or pandemic responses.
  2. For decades, affirmative action has been a major strategy for promoting desegregation and supporting minority rights, but it has recently faced growing criticism.
  3. Despite its significance, many mainstream news outlets are downplaying this policy change, treating it as just a minor leadership adjustment.

Mark Zuckerberg’s Vibe Shift. Plus. . .

2810 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Censorship Policy Changes Media influence Political critique
  1. Mark Zuckerberg's company, Meta, is changing its approach to free speech by ending fact-checking and reducing censorship on its platforms. This shift seems to be a response to political changes and the desire to align more with conservative values.
  2. Canadians share responsibility for the failures of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, as his government faced criticism after a dramatic fall from grace. The country's political climate also contributed to his decline.
  3. Nicotine use is becoming more associated with conservative politics. Many nicotine users supported Trump in the last election, showing how political views around tobacco are shifting.

A Free Press Conversation with Natan Sharansky

2805 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
  1. Important figures are visiting _The Free Press_ to talk, showing it's becoming a notable newsroom. This includes people like politicians and writers.
  2. Natan Sharansky, a significant historical figure, shared his experiences from Israel. He spoke about the ongoing struggles and losses that people are facing there.
  3. 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.

What We Learned This Year

2805 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Society Media Politics Art Philosophy
  1. Tuning out distractions and staying focused on important work can lead to positive results, as shown by efforts to improve safety and create jobs.
  2. Apathy is a major threat to open societies, highlighting the need for active participation in institutions that shape our future.
  3. Vigilance and resilience are crucial. Protecting ourselves and recognizing threats is important for safety and freedom.

Want to Be Happier? Use These Five Charts to Improve Your Life.

2796 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Personal Growth Wellbeing Happiness
  1. Happiness comes from many types of wealth, not just money. You should focus on time, social connections, mental well-being, and physical health too.
  2. Reflect on the time you have left with loved ones. Understanding this can help you prioritize your time and who you spend it with.
  3. There's always something more to chase in life, like a bigger boat. Instead of striving for what society tells you to want, figure out what truly matters to you.

Everything You Need to Know About the Iran Attack

2786 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East International relations Military Action Terrorism Geopolitics
  1. Israel launched a significant military strike against Iran, targeting its nuclear program and military leaders. This surprise attack marks a major escalation in the conflict between the two nations.
  2. There are high tensions as Iran has promised to retaliate for the strikes. Israel is preparing for possible attacks in response to its actions.
  3. Experts believe this event could change the dynamics of the Middle East and reduce the threat of Iran obtaining nuclear weapons, but it also raises risks of further conflict.

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
  1. 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.
  2. McMaster shares insights about his experiences during Trump's first foreign trip, highlighting how Trump thinks and makes decisions.
  3. 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.

The Free Press, Tailored to You

2735 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
📰 News Journalism Media Technology Politics Events
  1. The website has a fresh new look that makes it easier to use. Now, you can quickly find what interests you most.
  2. You can listen to podcasts and watch videos more easily, thanks to dedicated sections on the site.
  3. 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 Post-Election Sex Strike. Plus. . .

2722 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
  1. Many progressives are feeling overwhelmed after Trump's re-election, leading to extreme reactions like cutting ties with family or making protest statements such as shaving their heads.
  2. There are ongoing conspiracy theories about election integrity, showing that skepticism is widespread among Democrats, similar to the past reactions to Trump's election.
  3. Some women are participating in a sex strike to express their anger about Trump's win, mimicking a movement from South Korea aimed at highlighting women's issues.

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
  1. 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.
  2. They have covered significant events like the presidential election, focusing on real issues and voices from everyday Americans, which has shaped their trusted reporting.
  3. The organization is expanding its presence through documentaries, podcasts, and live events, aiming to engage with the community and enhance its media offerings.

The Real Hunter Biden Scandal

2703 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Scandals Justice System Government Influence Elections
  1. Hunter Biden was pardoned by President Biden, which some see as a sign of favoritism. It raises questions about fairness in the justice system.
  2. 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.
  3. The manner in which the pardon was given is unusual, as it happened before Hunter Biden faced any sentencing, unlike past presidential pardons.

Always Bet Against the Davos Man

2684 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political trends Global events Economic Policy Corporate Influence Social Issues
  1. At the World Economic Forum in Davos, the mood has shifted from disdain for Trump to a more interested attitude in 2025. Elite business leaders from Europe now want to engage with his ideas.
  2. While the forum continues to push topics like Environmental and Social Governance and Diversity, the actual conversations among executives reveal a different focus. They seem more optimistic about the changing American sentiments.
  3. Despite the fancy corporate language about sustainability, the reality for many leaders might be more about capitalizing on current trends than sticking strictly to these ideals.

TGIF: The Real Housewives of Pennsylvania Avenue

2671 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political Commentary Legislation Public Opinion
  1. Elon Musk and Donald Trump are having a public fallout, with Musk criticizing the government's spending and Trump expressing disappointment in Musk's actions. Their friendship appears to be deteriorating rapidly.
  2. Trump accused Musk of being crazy and suggested terminating his government contracts, showing the tension between them. This includes Musk indirectly threatening Trump with serious allegations.
  3. The drama between these two figures highlights how quickly alliances can change in politics, as both seem to be trying to distance themselves from each other.

Peggy Noonan on How to Save America

2666 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
  1. 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.
  2. Noonan's columns, although written over the past eight years, feel timeless and relevant, showing her skill at capturing the essence of issues.
  3. She expresses concern about the decline of standards in both politics and journalism, emphasizing the need for more serious and respectable leadership.

Welcome to Hamassachusetts

2652 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Antisemitism Education Legislation Activism Public Policy
  1. There is a growing concern about antisemitism in Massachusetts public schools. Lawmakers are highlighting this issue during discussions and hearings.
  2. A recent event featured a state representative showing a folded dollar bill as a symbol of antisemitism, sparking reactions from teachers and union leaders.
  3. The leader of the Massachusetts Teachers Association did not make a judgment when asked if that imagery was antisemitic, reflecting a complex conversation around these topics.

Meet Our New MAGA Overlords. Plus. . .

2647 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
  1. Donald Trump is set to return to the White House with a new group of influential supporters, marking a change from his previous administration. This new team includes both familiar faces and some new names that will play important roles in his presidency.
  2. There's a push for Trump to improve the efficiency of the federal government by hiring competent bureaucrats. One example highlighted was a talented young hacker who was overlooked for a job, showing how important proper hiring is.
  3. Recent elections showed that many Americans are not ready to support drug legalization, with several states voting against it. This indicates a growing awareness of the potential social problems linked to legalizing drugs.

Assad’s Fall Has Humiliated Washington

2633 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Middle East Administration Conflict
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

Farewell to Canada’s Golden Boy. Plus. . .

2633 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Policies Public Opinion Governance
  1. Justin Trudeau's resignation marks the end of his nearly decade-long term as Canada's prime minister. His fall from grace is attributed to controversial ideas on various issues like the economy and immigration.
  2. There are ongoing discussions about the safety and stability of New York City, with ideas on how to restore order amid rising lawlessness. Some suggest that banning masks could help reduce crime-related anonymity.
  3. Recent tragedies have sparked a debate about the impact of language and narratives on societal safety. Conversations are emerging about the consequences of divisive rhetoric, especially in light of recent violent events.

My Friend Max

2624 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Memoir Friendship Art Travel Death
  1. Max was a unique and thoughtful person who had a passion for living life to the fullest. He was obsessed with exploring new places and tried new adventures often.
  2. He valued the concept of 'value' in various forms, whether it was calculating the best meal deals or considering the impact of choices he made in life, like his charitable efforts.
  3. Despite his quirky habits and passions, Max had a deep love for the people in his life. His friendships were authentic, and he left a mark on everyone he met.

Why Is Trump Handing Our Enemies a Win?

2610 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policies Security Foreign Relations Government
  1. Revoking security for officials like Mike Pompeo puts them in danger. This is concerning because Iran has threats against them.
  2. Taking away these security measures could also weaken America's position internationally. It may give a sense of victory to enemies like Iran.
  3. The decision to revoke security seems to be politically motivated, impacting how former officials can protect themselves. It's crucial to consider the safety of individuals who have been targeted for their roles.

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
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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 Girlboss Is Sleeping with the Intern

2606 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Society Gender Art Literature
  1. There is a growing sense of dissatisfaction among women, leading some to seek out new experiences or break commitments. Many women feel trapped in their current lives and long for excitement or change.
  2. The film 'Babygirl' explores the character Romy, who seems successful but feels unfulfilled in her marriage. Her search for pleasure and connection leads her to an affair with her younger intern.
  3. Romy's journey highlights the complexities of desire and the risks people take when chasing what they think will make them happy. It raises questions about love, commitment, and personal satisfaction.

Poetic Justice for Jay Bhattacharya. Plus. . .

2606 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Government Foreign Relations Criminal Justice
  1. Jay Bhattacharya faced a lot of pushback for questioning COVID-19 lockdowns, but now he's nominated to lead the NIH. It feels like he's getting the recognition he deserves after being silenced.
  2. Tulsi Gabbard is facing unfair accusations of being a Russian asset due to her past views and meetings. People believe she should have a chance to explain herself in a confirmation hearing instead of being labeled.
  3. Hunter Biden received a controversial pardon from his father, Joe Biden, just before leaving office. This decision has upset many, including some Democrats, because it seems he's getting special treatment compared to others.

The First Million Free Pressers

2601 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
  1. The community of _Free Press_ is growing, with nearly 915,000 subscribers now. That shows a big need for news that really reflects what’s happening.
  2. There's a goal to reach one million subscribers by the end of 2024. If subscribers help by referring friends, they can earn free subscriptions or other fun rewards.
  3. The _Free Press_ is all about providing honest journalism and building a community of people who care about getting the truth out there.

TGIF: The People’s Republic of Manhattan

2596 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Campaigns Political Figures Social Issues
  1. Zohran Mamdani is running for mayor of New York City and has gained attention for his unique campaign style. His approach combines humor and social media, reminiscent of Trump's marketing tactics.
  2. Despite having a privileged background, Mamdani's campaign portrays him as an outsider challenging the political establishment. He has proposed policies like free buses and rent freezes, aiming to appeal to the public's desire for change.
  3. Mamdani's election reflects a broader shift in New York politics, with moderate Democrats feeling uneasy about his progressive stance. His charismatic campaigning is seen as a potential game-changer for the city's future.

The Vibe Shift Comes to the Super Bowl. Plus. . .

2582 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Public Opinion Political parties Education
  1. This year's Super Bowl showed a shift in culture with new messages like 'Choose Love' in the end zone. The halftime show featuring Kendrick Lamar mixed patriotism with social commentary.
  2. Democrats are trying to defend USAID amid controversies, but many people believe foreign aid is excessive, which could backfire on their political support.
  3. American public education continues to struggle, with students falling behind, and some educators are allegedly trying to obscure the problem instead of fixing it.

Rubio, Gabbard, and Gaetz. . . Oh My!

2545 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
  1. Donald Trump's cabinet picks reflect his unique coalition. Marco Rubio shows a traditional approach, while Tulsi Gabbard represents a break from the norm.
  2. Matt Gaetz's nomination as attorney general raises eyebrows due to his controversial past and limited legal experience. Many are concerned about his ability to be confirmed.
  3. Trump's new border czar, Thomas Homan, has a tough task ahead regarding immigration policy, especially with his promise to deport millions of illegal immigrants.

Trump 2.0: A Survival Guide for Democrats

2541 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Public Opinion Political strategy Identity politics
  1. The Democratic Party is struggling more than ever, with only a third of Americans viewing it positively. This is the lowest approval rating the party has seen since 1992.
  2. Recent leadership changes in the DNC seem out of touch with the voters, as the new chair candidates focused on discussions around identity politics rather than addressing the party's failures.
  3. Young voters, especially Gen Z, feel unheard by the Democrats. Key issues like school safety, climate change, and economic pressures need to be prioritized if the party wants to connect with them.

Andrew Roberts: Trump’s Churchillian Choice at Fordow

2531 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Decision-making History International relations Military Strategy
  1. Dictators often make real threats, so it's important to take them seriously. History shows that when people ignore these threats, it can lead to severe consequences.
  2. Winston Churchill faced a tough decision during World War II about the French fleet. He chose to sink it to prevent it from being used by the enemy, showing that sometimes tough choices are necessary for safety.
  3. Leadership can require hard and ruthless choices during critical moments. These actions can redirect the course of events to ensure a safer future.

Trump Is Uncool. And That’s a Good Thing.

2504 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Elections Public Opinion Political Leadership Media
  1. The idea is that having a president who isn't seen as 'cool' could be a positive change. It suggests that style and image might matter less than the actions they take.
  2. The comparison with Obama shows how being cool can influence public perception of a leader. When Obama took office, his cool demeanor made many feel hopeful.
  3. The text hints that after years of trendy leaders, it might be time to appreciate a more straightforward, less flashy approach to leadership.

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
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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 High Schooler Graduated with a 3.4 GPA. He Can’t Read His Diploma. Plus. . .

2480 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Legal issues Government Public Policy Social Issues
  1. A high school graduate with a decent GPA didn't learn how to read, highlighting serious issues in education today. This has sparked legal action against the school district for not providing proper education.
  2. Many people agree that kids today are not performing as well academically, partly due to disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic. This has led to concerns about declining intelligence and skills among young students.
  3. Recent political events have raised questions about justice and accountability, especially regarding figures like Trump and his pardons for individuals involved in corruption. Such actions have sparked debate about fairness in the legal system.

I Burned a Quran. The British Government Punished Me for Blasphemy.

2471 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Civil Liberties Legal issues International Law
  1. A man was punished in Britain for burning a Quran during a protest against Islamic extremism. He believes this action was a form of political expression.
  2. The judge viewed his act as hateful, which raises concerns about freedom of speech and whether Britain is reintroducing blasphemy laws.
  3. The case highlights tensions between offensive political protests and the legal protections for free speech, especially when the expression is controversial.