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

Natan Sharansky: Why Can’t Israel’s Leader Visit Auschwitz?

1534 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics International Law Middle East Human Rights Antisemitism Geopolitics
  1. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu can't attend the Auschwitz commemoration due to war crime charges from the ICC. This situation is highly ironic since it's a significant event related to Jewish history.
  2. The ICC's charges against Netanyahu have been criticized by the Biden administration as having no legal basis, but Poland has not taken action to support his attendance.
  3. Important legal concepts like 'crimes against humanity' and 'genocide' were created by Polish-born Jews after the Holocaust, which adds another layer of irony to the accusations against Israel 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.

Last Night’s Pogrom in Amsterdam

6784 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
  1. A violent attack occurred in Amsterdam against Jewish and Israeli soccer fans after a match, highlighting rising antisemitism in the city. Many fans were beaten and ambushed by groups of young assailants.
  2. The attack seemed to be pre-planned and involved local youth gangs, with reports suggesting they were aided by some taxi drivers in the area. Police initially advised Israeli fans to avoid taxis to stay safe.
  3. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of the Jewish community in Amsterdam, a city with a painful history from World War II, reminding many of past failures to protect them.

It’s Time for the Government to Abolish ‘Race’

4219 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Race Issues Government Policy Civil Rights Identity politics
  1. The government has been categorizing people into limited racial groups since 1977, which critics argue is outdated and arbitrary.
  2. Changes to these categories are coming, with the 2030 census set to have seven defined races instead of five, but these classifications are still seen as confusing and nonsensical.
  3. Some people believe that instead of having these set racial categories, the concept of race should be completely abolished in government practices.
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Niall Ferguson: The Rot In Britain—and the Remedy

3941 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Freedom of Speech Media Criticism International relations
  1. There is a growing concern about the state of debate and free speech in Britain, especially highlighted by an incident at the Oxford Union. People are feeling that open discussions are being stifled.
  2. During a recent debate, the crowd showed hostility towards pro-Israel speakers, indicating a divide in opinions and a lack of respect for differing viewpoints. This suggests there may be an atmosphere that discourages diverse opinions.
  3. Overall, the situation raises questions about national identity and the importance of preserving traditional values in the face of modern challenges. People are worried about losing what makes their country special.

Does the West Need a Religious Revival? Join Us for Our Next Live Debate.

1187 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Debates Cultural Issues Society Mental health
  1. The West is facing issues like low marriage and birth rates, more depression and loneliness, and a general sense of unhappiness. Many believe this might be linked to a decline in traditional religion.
  2. FDR's four fundamental freedoms, including freedom of worship, are currently challenged by new societal problems like technology and economic inequality.
  3. A debate is happening about whether a return to religion could help with the current crisis of meaning, highlighting differing views on modern secularism versus traditional belief systems.

Best of The Free Press: Don’t Lie

2448 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Political History Election Analysis Political narratives
  1. Honesty is crucial in journalism, and it helps build trust. People prefer straightforward reporting over being misled or given spin.
  2. There has been a dangerous trend where some journalists prioritize their agendas over truth. This shift has hurt the credibility of the media.
  3. Understanding and sticking to the truth matters now more than ever. Good journalism can counteract the lies and misinformation that spread in society.

It’s Not Just Kay Granger. All of Congress Is an Old Age Home.

1627 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Congress Government Elections Legislation Public Policy
  1. Kay Granger, an 81-year-old congresswoman, is living in an assisted care facility while still serving in Congress. This raises questions about the ability of elderly politicians to effectively represent their constituents.
  2. Many older members in Congress may not be fully engaged or capable of performing their duties. This situation suggests a broader issue with age and effectiveness within government.
  3. There are calls for reevaluation of compensation for lawmakers who are not actively participating in their work as public representatives. This brings up the debate about taxpayer money and how it's spent on elected officials.

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.

Things Worth Remembering: Ayaan Hirsi Ali and the ‘Strange Death’ of Europe

6237 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
  1. Theo van Gogh was murdered in Amsterdam in 2004 for criticizing Islam's treatment of women, marking a shocking moment for the Netherlands.
  2. The murders of public figures like van Gogh and Pim Fortuyn highlighted rising violence related to immigration and cultural criticism in the country.
  3. Despite these warnings, the Dutch have largely ignored the underlying issues and turned against those who spoke out about them, particularly Ayaan Hirsi Ali.

A Big Year for Big Lies. Plus. . .

1966 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Immigration Public Policy Political Commentary Government Accountability
  1. There have been many claims about Joe Biden's sharpness and involvement in his son's business dealings that turned out to be false. This has raised questions about honesty in politics.
  2. The immigration debate is filled with tension, especially among Indian Americans, as some face backlash for supporting figures in the MAGA movement while still holding onto their cultural identities.
  3. There's a growing push for educational standards that include teaching young children about gender identity. This has sparked discussions about what topics should be appropriate for kids in school.

‘Globalize the Intifada’ Comes to New Orleans

1595 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Terrorism Public Safety Civil Rights Media Criticism Political Commentary
  1. A recent attack in New Orleans involved a terrorist act that killed multiple people and showed how global trends of violence can impact local communities.
  2. Witnesses reported seeing an ISIS flag with the attacker, highlighting the connection between local violence and international extremists.
  3. A corporate leader responded to the tragedy by talking about positivity and acceptance, which some found inappropriate given the severity of the situation.

Inside Biden’s Billion-Dollar Broadband Boondoggle

1085 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Infrastructure Government Technology
  1. The Biden administration promised to provide reliable internet access to 25 million people in rural areas. This is important because many people living in these regions struggle with slow or no internet service.
  2. The $42 billion investment meant to improve broadband services has not connected a single customer yet. This raises questions about how effective the program is and why it hasn't delivered on its promises.
  3. Many individuals, like a software engineer in Wisconsin, face challenges working from home due to poor internet connectivity. Without successful implementation of broadband programs, their work continues to suffer.

Will China Invade Taiwan? Will Trump Keep His Promises? And Is Polyamory Finally Out?

1850 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Predictions Policy Culture
  1. Trump's administration might push for stricter immigration policies, which could lead to more families self-deporting rather than mass deportations.
  2. Expect tariffs and trade actions from Trump, but major shifts in government spending on programs like Social Security and Medicare are unlikely.
  3. Prepare for changes in language and culture, with new trends in both areas as 2025 unfolds.

Civil War in MAGA World. Plus…

1956 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Political Discourse Legislation Political Identity Historical Analysis
  1. There is a big debate in the MAGA community about the H-1B visa program, which allows companies to hire skilled foreign workers. Some people support it because it helps tech companies find talent, while others think it harms American workers by lowering wages.
  2. The disagreement over this visa issue has stirred up uncomfortable racial sentiments, particularly against immigrants from countries like India. Some critics express openly racist views, suggesting that America should stay 'white European' despite its history as a nation of immigrants.
  3. Jimmy Carter, who recently passed away at 100, is remembered not just for his troubled presidency but also for his impactful post-presidential work, like building homes with Habitat for Humanity and promoting global health and democracy.

The Evolution of Marco Rubio

1061 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Foreign Policy Political parties Government
  1. Marco Rubio is changing his approach to foreign policy, focusing on being pragmatic rather than hawkish. He wants to find practical solutions instead of just being aggressive.
  2. During his confirmation hearing, Rubio mentioned seeing opportunities in the Middle East that didn't exist before, especially relating to the situation with Israel and Hamas. He believes that current conflicts may create new possibilities for peace and cooperation.
  3. Rubio's comments suggest he is looking for ways to turn recent chaos in the Middle East into strategic advantages for the U.S. This shows a shift in how he perceives diplomatic chances amidst turmoil.

Best of The Free Press: It’s Okay to Change Your Mind

2184 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Views Immigration Policy Media influence Public Opinion Political Spectrum
  1. Changing your mind is okay. Being open to new ideas helps you grow and rethink your previously held beliefs.
  2. On-the-ground reporting gives a clearer view of issues. Stories that present the facts can challenge your views and make you consider different perspectives.
  3. Engaging with a variety of opinions is valuable. Hearing thoughts from across the political spectrum helps in understanding complex issues better.

Inside Columbia University’s ‘Museum of Terror’

1530 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Antisemitism Protests Education Israel
  1. Columbia University hosted an exhibit showing tools used for a break-in by anti-Israel protesters. This highlighted significant tensions surrounding the Israel-Palestine issue on campus.
  2. A student, Shoshana Aufzien, attended an event that aimed to promote Palestinian experiences but described it as like visiting a 'museum of terror.' She felt this showed the extreme sentiments present.
  3. The event featured various training sessions, including protest and defense training, signaling a growing mobilization around the pro-Palestine cause among students.

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.

Rep. Seth Moulton: Democrats Are Wearing an ‘Ideological Straitjacket’

4447 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
  1. Many progressives are unhappy with Congressman Seth Moulton for expressing concerns about trans women competing in women's sports. They feel his comments go against the party's support for trans rights.
  2. Moulton believes Democrats are too focused on being politically correct and not addressing real issues. He feels it's important to have open discussions about concerns parents might have.
  3. His comments have led to significant backlash, including calls for him to resign and criticism from fellow Democrats and different organizations. This shows how sensitive and divided the topic of trans rights can be within the party.

The Raunchy Right Has Triumphed

431 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Pop culture Political culture Media Society Trends
  1. A new MAGA-themed pinup calendar has been released, showing a shift in American culture influenced by conservative ideas.
  2. The calendar is promoted as a symbol of a 'golden age' by the company behind it, reflecting their political stance.
  3. This is part of a larger trend where conservative themes are becoming more prominent in pop culture and marketing.

Trump, RFK, and the Autism Dilemma

5244 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
  1. Donald Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. are two of the few politicians discussing the rise in autism rates. Their focus on this topic shows a recognition of a growing issue that affects many families.
  2. The rate of autism diagnoses has increased drastically, from almost nothing in the past to over 3% of children today. This rapid rise suggests there is more to explore than just better awareness and broader definitions.
  3. Society needs to pay attention to autism because it doesn't just affect individuals; it impacts families and the larger community. Preparing for the needs of a growing number of young adults with autism is crucial.

TGIF: The Ten-Pound Brain Administration

4581 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
  1. Donald Trump is pushing through his nominations quickly, showing confidence in his choices. People are aligning with his ideas without much debate, as seen in recent congressional comments.
  2. Asian American voters are shifting towards the right in significant numbers. Many are reacting to concerns about crime and education, leading to major political changes in areas with large Asian populations.
  3. Matt Gaetz is facing serious allegations involving inappropriate relations and payments to women. His situation raises concerns about the behavior of younger politicians compared to older ones.

Outlawing Price Gouging Will Only Hurt Angelenos

1052 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Economics Government Legislation Public Opinion
  1. Outlawing price hikes might seem fair, but it can actually hurt people more. When prices are kept too low, it can lead to shortages of essential items.
  2. Politicians often react to disasters by blaming businesses for high prices, but this can have negative consequences. Price increases can help balance supply and demand during tough times.
  3. Making price gouging illegal might sound good, but it might actually make it harder for people to find the supplies they need during emergencies.

TGIF: Department of Eat My Shorts

5161 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
  1. Trump is shaping his administration with controversial choices like Matt Gaetz as attorney general, which has raised eyebrows due to his past scandals.
  2. Some appointments, like Tulsi Gabbard for national intelligence, highlight a shift from traditional political norms, making people question the direction of leadership.
  3. Criticism of government institutions is viewed as an attack on democracy, even when people want to hold leaders accountable for their actions.

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.

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.

The Momfluencer Who Went to Jail

867 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social media Parenting Influencers Abuse Childhood
  1. Ruby Franke, a social media influencer, was arrested for child abuse after her son showed signs of neglect. This case shines a light on the darker side of online parenting.
  2. Her daughter Shari has shared her experiences growing up, highlighting the difference between Ruby's public persona and the reality at home.
  3. The situation raises questions about the impact of sharing family life online and how it can hide serious issues beneath the surface.

Martin Gurri: Our Countercultural Revolution

4414 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
  1. Some elections are won through specific tactics, but Trump's win was big and different. It showed a change in the political landscape and brought together a unique group of supporters.
  2. The media has lost a lot of trust from the public, especially when trying to influence elections. Traditional news brands struggled to connect with people, and many turned away from them.
  3. Trump's rise is part of a larger cultural movement that is changing American society. He went from being a showman to a significant figure with the potential to reshape many aspects of life in the country.

Letters to the Editor: Is Porn Really Inevitable?

491 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Privacy Media Society Health
  1. The Supreme Court is hearing a case about age verification laws for pornography, which raises concerns about privacy online.
  2. Some argue that age verification for adult content is necessary, similar to checks for things like buying alcohol or gambling, to protect children.
  3. Others believe that family control and supervision is more effective than laws when it comes to preventing kids from accessing porn online.

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.

Christmas in the Gulag. Trudeau in Trouble. How the Drone Theories Stack Up. Plus. . .

2346 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Current Events Political Analysis International Affairs Government Public Policy
  1. There are many Americans wrongfully detained overseas. Some families are fighting to bring their loved ones home for the holidays.
  2. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is facing serious political trouble. His government could collapse after the resignation of his key ally.
  3. There are mysterious drone sightings in New Jersey, and no one knows for sure who's flying them. Some believe it could be foreign governments, while others think it could be our own.

Mr. President, Don’t Abandon the Rule of Law to Save TikTok

700 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Law Government Civil Rights Elections Public Policy
  1. The rule of law is important in a republic and should not be ignored, even for popular apps like TikTok.
  2. As president, there is a responsibility to uphold the law rather than make exceptions for personal preferences.
  3. Supporting independent journalism is essential for shedding light on important issues and maintaining accountability.

When Auschwitz Becomes a Theme Park

644 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Tourism History Memory Trauma
  1. Tourism at Holocaust sites like Auschwitz can feel wrong and disrespectful to many people. It's strange to combine such serious history with entertainment.
  2. The movie 'A Real Pain' explores the impact of the Holocaust on future generations and how it shapes their identities. It's a personal story about understanding family and history.
  3. There's a disconnect in Poland where some people feel distant or unwelcoming toward Jewish history and culture, which can lead to a cold atmosphere during visits. This ambivalence is troubling for many visitors.

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.

A ‘Loco Gringo’ Takes On the Mexican Cartels

2147 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Law enforcement Crime Public Policy
  1. Sheriff Roy Boyd is taking action against human smugglers by coordinating with other sheriffs in Texas. This teamwork is helping to reduce the influence of cartels.
  2. One day, Boyd spotted a truck filled with smuggled migrants and decided to chase it down. He acted quickly to catch the smugglers, even involving his young son.
  3. Boyd's experience shows the importance of community policing and how local law enforcement can tackle big problems like human trafficking.

Heroin Chic Is Back

1247 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Body Image Fashion Health Media Celebrity
  1. The current trend of using weight-loss drugs like Ozempic has shifted how people view body image and the body positivity movement. Many now see the movement as unrealistic since more people are choosing to be thinner.
  2. The emphasis on thinness in Hollywood is more apparent than ever, with celebrities being scrutinized for their appearance on the red carpet. This has led to a resurgence of the 'heroin chic' aesthetic.
  3. Even celebrities who once promoted body positivity are now opting for weight loss, indicating a change in societal standards regarding body image and attractiveness.

Is It Cool to Be Right-Wing Now?

375 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conservatism Media Culture Public Opinion Trends
  1. There seems to be new interest in right-wing beliefs, especially among younger people. This has sparked a lot of conversations online.
  2. A recent magazine cover featuring young Trump supporters has caused a lot of debate. People are discussing what it means for the future of politics.
  3. There's a question about whether conservatives should engage with reporters who don’t support their views. This is making people think about how to communicate across different beliefs.

The Monarch of Mar-a-Lago

1112 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political parties Public Policy Political History
  1. Trump's power peaks before he takes office, showing how the moment of being sworn in changes the dynamics of his influence.
  2. The story of Rip Van Winkle highlights how dramatic changes can occur in society, even in just a couple of decades.
  3. Modern political identities can be confusing and overwhelming, as seen in Rip's struggle to understand new party affiliations.