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

Martin Gurri: Trump Has a Mandate to Lead. What Comes Next?

1395 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Elections Governance Democracy
  1. Many people are unhappy with the current system and feel that leaders do not care about them. There is a growing distrust toward institutions that were once respected.
  2. Public dissatisfaction is seen in various movements worldwide, highlighting a desire for change and a disconnect between elites and everyday citizens.
  3. The rise of digital communication has exposed the problems with traditional institutions, making it harder for them to maintain authority without accountability.

Pete Hegseth Fights Back. Plus...

1697 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Elections Media Public Opinion
  1. Price gouging laws in Los Angeles may seem good, but they can actually hurt people in desperate situations. It might limit supply and make it harder for those in need to get help.
  2. Pornography is likely here to stay, regardless of attempts to restrict it. Even if laws are passed, people will still find ways to access it, highlighting challenges in internet freedom.
  3. Shopping shouldn't be seen as a hobby. Real hobbies involve creativity and skill, while buying things is more about spending money than personal fulfillment.

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.

TGIF: Pardon Me?

5587 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Legislation Political Commentary Political parties
  1. Hunter Biden has been pardoned by President Joe Biden after previously stating he wouldn't do so. This has raised concerns about honesty and the influence of politics on justice.
  2. Some people reacted to the assassination of a healthcare CEO with celebrations and jokes, showing a disturbing trend of desensitization towards violence.
  3. The media's change in tone about Biden's pardon highlights how quickly narratives can shift based on political loyalties, often ignoring previous criticisms.

In Australia, Jew-Hate Is Out of Control

1233 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Antisemitism Social Issues Current Events Public Safety Community Advocacy
  1. Antisemitism is rising in Australia, resulting in acts of violence like firebombing. This is alarming and reflects a troubling trend.
  2. The Jewish community in Australia feels increasingly unsafe, with recent attacks targeting places like synagogues and homes.
  3. The situation has become so normal that people are not shocked when hearing about these attacks, indicating a serious societal issue.
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Escape from Los Angeles. Plus. . .

2114 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
📰 News Wildfires Immigration Crime Media Health Politics
  1. Southern California is facing serious wildfires, leading to evacuations and deaths. Many structures, including famous schools and celebrity homes, have been destroyed.
  2. Women have been exposing the long-hidden issue of grooming gangs in Britain, which involved the exploitation of young girls for years. Their efforts are gaining attention after recent events sparked wider discussions.
  3. Many Indians on H-1B visas feel excluded from the American Dream. Some are experiencing challenges with the visa system and have chosen to return home instead.

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.

The West Is Still Alive in Nevada

2170 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Arts Traditions Identity Geography Lifestyle
  1. Nevada has a unique spirit that sets it apart from other Western states. It's a place where the old Wild West vibe still exists, especially in small towns.
  2. The state is known for its tough and desolate landscapes, which can test the limits of those who venture there. Many who seek fortune may find both success and hardship.
  3. Visiting places like Elko can be an adventure filled with unexpected experiences, from lively bars to the harsh realities of the desert life.

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.

Fashion Police: Inauguration Edition

1265 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Fashion Style Trends Events
  1. The fashion at the inauguration was eye-catching, with different styles making statements. Kamala Harris wore a casual suit while others, like Melania Trump, dressed more formally.
  2. The weather was very cold, prompting changes to the swearing-in ceremony's location. This chilly atmosphere likely influenced attendees' clothing choices.
  3. Lauren Sánchez drew attention with a bold and daring outfit that some found inappropriate but also exciting. It definitely stood out among the more traditional looks.

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.

Emperor Elon

2082 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Power Leadership Influence Social media Corporate Influence
  1. Elon Musk has gained power in a unique way, without violence or conflict. He built a strong following through innovation and technology.
  2. His influence spans many industries and affects political agendas around the world. People seem to eagerly support him, almost like he's a leader.
  3. The transformation of Twitter into 'X' marked a big change, showing how Musk can reshape platforms and communities. This shift surprised many who thought it would fail.

Abigail Shrier Was Vilified. Now She’s Been Vindicated.

3987 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Politics Health Policy Social Issues Public Discourse
  1. Some researchers bravely challenge popular beliefs, and Abigail Shrier is one of them. She wrote a book about the risks of transitioning minors, especially teenage girls.
  2. Shrier found that parents were often misled about the consequences of their choices. Medical professionals used fear tactics to push life-changing treatments on families.
  3. Critics of the idea that minors should transition faced serious backlash. Speaking out against this belief often led to social and professional consequences.

TGIF: Thankful Edition

5995 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Policy Leadership Public Opinion
  1. It's easy to think about what we don't have, like Bitcoin, especially when we see others doing well with it. Reflecting on missed opportunities can make us appreciate our current situation even more.
  2. Jill Biden's presence and support for her husband, the president, highlights the importance of having a supportive partner in leadership. It's nice to recognize her role during Thanksgiving.
  3. Thankfulness can come from recognizing both what we have and what has passed us by. Even if we feel we've missed out on trends, focusing on family and good moments is what really matters.

The Extremely Gleeful, Extremely Dark Reaction to a CEO’s Killing

5216 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Crime Violence Public Reaction Leadership Health care
  1. A CEO was shot and killed in New York, capturing the attention of many people online. The video of the assassination showed a planned and cold-blooded act.
  2. Some people reacted to the murder in a troubling way, treating it as if it were a fictional scene from a movie. Critics expressed that they felt the CEO got what he deserved due to the company's actions.
  3. Comments on social media ranged from dark humor to openly supporting violence against executives, showing a disturbing sense of glee about the situation.

A ‘Museum of Terror’ at Columbia. Plus. . .

2156 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Congress Social Issues Media influence National Security Public Opinion Government Policy
  1. Columbia University is struggling with a rise in antisemitism, with numerous reports of Jewish students feeling unsafe on campus. Recent events and exhibits have fueled tension, highlighting serious concerns for student safety.
  2. A new report has raised alarms about TikTok's influence on American youth, suggesting the platform is used to promote pro-China views. This has serious implications for national security and the upcoming Supreme Court case regarding its future in the U.S.
  3. The portrayal of body image is changing again, as many celebrities at the Golden Globes showcased thin figures possibly aided by weight loss drugs like Ozempic. This raises questions about the effectiveness of the body positivity movement and societal beauty standards.

Who Will Buy TikTok From China? Plus. . .

1567 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Judiciary Tech Policy Media influence Criminal Justice
  1. There is a legal case challenging Biden's transgender prison policy. A woman is arguing that sharing spaces with transgender inmates makes her feel unsafe.
  2. With a potential ban on TikTok approaching, there are talks about who might buy the platform, including possible buyers like Trump or Elon Musk.
  3. In Los Angeles, wildfires have caused many people to flee their homes, and volunteers are working hard to provide support and shelter for those affected.

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.

‘Severance’ and the Trauma of the Bullshit Job

1057 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Television Entertainment Workplace Society Media
  1. The show 'Severance' highlights the frustration many people feel about their jobs, especially the long hours spent in a dull office.
  2. In 'Severance', employees have a procedure that separates their work and personal memories, creating two different versions of themselves.
  3. The concept of 'severance' raises an interesting question: Would you want to forget your work life completely if you could?

Voters Sent Democrats a Clear Message. They Don’t Want to Hear It.

3700 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Political Ideologies Public Opinion Campaign strategies
  1. Democrats are ignoring important cultural issues like race and immigration that many voters care about. This disconnect is hurting their popularity.
  2. Ruy Teixeira believes that the party's focus on strict ideological beliefs is driving away working-class Americans. It’s crucial for them to regain this group's support.
  3. Instead of reevaluating their stance on cultural issues, Democrats seem to be avoiding serious discussions. This denial could keep them unpopular with the general public.

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.

On Mary and the Mob

5332 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Religion Media Identity Politics Art
  1. Mary, the mother of Jesus, was Jewish, and it's important to acknowledge her heritage. Denying this fact is seen as foolish or antisemitic.
  2. There is a current controversy over the casting of a Jewish actress to play Mary in a Netflix film. Some people are upset that an Israeli Jew was chosen for the role.
  3. The debate around the film reflects a broader conflict and misinformation about Israel and Palestine. Many narratives surrounding this issue are manipulated to serve certain political agendas.

Letters to the Editor: The Fires Weren’t Inevitable

1521 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
📰 News Wildfires California Urban planning Public response Journalism
  1. Some readers disagree with the idea that Los Angeles was meant to burn, arguing it's a defeatist attitude. They believe avoiding blames and focusing on solutions are more productive.
  2. The discussion highlights that LA's construction on dry grasslands makes it vulnerable to wildfires, but it's also important to consider how this can be managed better.
  3. There’s a broader concern about accepting problems as unavoidable rather than addressing them, which can reflect in various societal issues today.

Why Trump Is Obsessed with the Panama Canal

463 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Public Policy Foreign Relations Elections National Security
  1. Trump has a strong belief that China is gaining control over the Panama Canal, which he thinks is a serious issue for the U.S.
  2. He often reminds people that the U.S. built and owned the canal before it was handed over to Panama.
  3. Some political figures are starting to take Trump's concerns seriously, discussing actions that could be taken regarding the canal's operations.

Kanye Needs a Conservatorship

217 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Mental health Social Issues Public Discourse Media Critique
  1. Some people may struggle with mental health to the point they can't handle their own lives. This can lead to harmful actions or behaviors.
  2. Kanye West has made several controversial and hate-filled statements online, including antisemitic comments. This pattern of behavior raises concern about his mental well-being.
  3. There have been repeated incidents where Kanye has expressed extreme views, suggesting a need for oversight or support to ensure his safety and the safety of others.

Pete Hegseth Shows His Hand

1414 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Military Public Policy Political Commentary
  1. Pete Hegseth wants to change the military's focus back to combat readiness by prioritizing fleet rebuilding over climate initiatives. He believes efficiency in warfare should come first.
  2. He plans to reverse the firing of service members who didn't take the Covid vaccine, promising to reinstate them with their pay and rank. This shows his stance against the previous policies.
  3. The confirmation hearing was heated, with accusations against Hegseth raised by Democrats. However, Republican support made it likely that he would be confirmed as the Secretary of Defense.

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 Photos That Exposed Biden’s Lies

2402 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political theory Political parties Media
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Joe Biden has consistently denied discussing business matters with Hunter or meeting his associates, even when confronted about evidence to the contrary.

Terror in New Orleans. Plus . . .

2211 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Terrorism Gun Violence Foreign Policy Addiction Judiciary
  1. A truck attack in New Orleans on New Year's Day killed at least 15 people, raising concerns about the threat of terrorism in the U.S. that resembles recent attacks in Europe.
  2. RFK Jr. suggests using 'tough love' and community support to tackle addiction issues but there are mixed opinions on whether this approach is effective or could limit access to helpful medications.
  3. There is a growing debate within the Trump administration about how to handle Iran, with different factions pushing for either aggressive action or a more isolationist approach.

Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni, and the Art of the Smear

2170 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Entertainment Celebrity Justice Social Issues
  1. Blake Lively accused Justin Baldoni of sexual harassment and claimed he organized a smear campaign against her. This has sparked widespread discussion and sympathy for her situation.
  2. The case brings up questions about the complexity of such accusations, especially given how media often portrays men as villains and women as victims in Hollywood.
  3. Amid all the drama, it's important to remember that there are often multiple sides to every story, and not everything is as clear-cut as it seems.

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.

TGIF: Our Campaign Was Perfect

7132 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
  1. Trump's election win marked a big shift in American politics, with many voting demographics moving to the right, especially among Hispanic voters and young men.
  2. Kamala Harris had a tough campaign and delivered a gracious concession speech, but many felt she didn't clearly define her values or connect with undecided voters.
  3. The struggles of the Democratic campaign, including influences from the Biden family, show that the problems run deeper than just campaign strategy.

‘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.

Be It Resolved!

2156 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Personal Growth Creative Writing Relationships Self-reflection Mindfulness
  1. Make time to appreciate the beautiful things around you every day. It can really lift your spirits and change your perspective.
  2. Focus on writing more deeply and ambitiously. Challenge yourself to explore new forms of writing you haven't tried before.
  3. Invest in your friendships by regularly reaching out and making plans. Being a good friend can bring joy to both you and those you care about.

How Much Can Trump Change with the Stroke of His Pen?

913 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive orders Legal issues Presidential Power Immigration Policy
  1. Trump signed a lot of executive orders on his first day, more than any other recent president. This shows he wants to make quick changes.
  2. His orders included controversial topics like pardoning people from the Capitol riot and changing birthright citizenship rules. These decisions could cause legal challenges.
  3. Experts are questioning whether he can really change long-standing laws with executive orders. It raises important legal debates about presidential power.

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.

The Fight to Define ‘America First’ Foreign Policy

695 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Government Elections Political Ideology
  1. Dan Caldwell is important in shaping America's foreign policy, especially under Trump. He believes the U.S. should reduce its military presence around the world.
  2. Some Republicans worry that Caldwell's views could harm America's global role. They think the idea of strength in foreign policy is being redefined.
  3. Caldwell's rising influence might give him a big say in the peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. This could change how the U.S. handles important international issues.

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.