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

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.

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.

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.

‘Polio Ravaged My Family.’ Political Violence Is Back. Plus. . .

2207 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political violence Public Health Protests Government Policy
  1. Polio vaccines have saved many lives and prevented unimaginable pain for families. Ignoring their value can lead to serious health risks.
  2. Political violence is increasing again, and it seems people are accepting or even supporting it more. In the past, similar patterns led to chaos.
  3. In Georgia, protests are happening every night, reflecting deep concerns about the country's direction. People are fighting for their future and EU membership.

Night Falls in Venezuela

918 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Democracy Elections Latin America Authoritarianism
  1. Nicolás Maduro has been sworn in for a third term as president of Venezuela, despite accusations of a stolen election. Many Venezuelans protested, but the government responded with prison sentences for opponents.
  2. María Corina Machado, a leading opposition figure, was briefly released from detention, sparking some hope for change. However, the overall situation remains dark and uncertain.
  3. Recent protests against Maduro were weaker compared to previous years, and important opposition leaders like Edmundo González Urrutia are still in exile. This gives a gloomy outlook for the future of democracy in Venezuela.
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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.

Best of The Free Press: Stories That Stirred My Soul

1697 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Journalism Human Interest Narrative Art Personal essays
  1. It's important to be aware of the things around us that we often overlook. Being humble and curious helps us see the bigger picture in life.
  2. Stories can deeply connect us to the experiences of others, helping us appreciate what we have. They remind us of the beauty and struggles in the world.
  3. Leaving a legacy goes beyond having children; we can create beauty through our actions and creativity. Even small things, like a rosebush, can have a lasting impact.

The Price of Pursuing the Truth About Transgender Medicine. Plus. . .

2045 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Transgender Issues Social media Military Alliances Judicial system
  1. Jesse Singal faced threats on Bluesky after writing about youth gender transition, showing that even in 'kind' social networks, anger exists.
  2. Abigail Shrier, also targeted for her work on transgender issues, has seen her concerns validated as more countries and states impose restrictions on gender treatments for minors.
  3. The Kurds worry they might be abandoned again by the U.S., fearing violence from Turkish-backed forces as their relationship with America continues to be tested.

The Other American Border Towns

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

New Report: TikTok Brainwashed America’s Youth

1168 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social media China relations Free speech Data Privacy
  1. TikTok may be influencing American youth significantly, leading to concerns about its impact on their views and behavior. Many worry that the platform could be promoting narratives that align with Chinese interests.
  2. Research suggests that TikTok downplays negative content about China, raising alarms about potential indoctrination among young users. This could shape how they perceive important global issues.
  3. The future of TikTok in the U.S. is uncertain as legal debates continue, with discussions about whether it should be sold or banned due to privacy and influence concerns. This situation has sparked a lot of political discussion and uncertainty.

The Burning Woman on the Train—and the Future of My City

1131 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Crime Public Safety Urban Issues Immigration
  1. Lawbreaking can harm communities and the quality of life in cities. People need to stand up and say enough is enough.
  2. The recent tragic incident of a woman being set on fire in a subway highlights the unsettling realities of urban life. It shows how dangerous and unpredictable city life can be.
  3. Living in a big city like New York can feel surreal, especially when faced with violent events while trying to enjoy everyday activities like visiting a museum.

Things Worth Remembering: The Last Words of Alexei Navalny

3890 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
  1. Alexei Navalny showed incredible courage when he returned to Russia after being poisoned. This act is seen as historic because it inspired many people.
  2. His return led to his arrest and imprisonment, highlighting the dangers faced by those who speak out against oppressive governments.
  3. Navalny's posthumous memoir, titled 'Patriot', offers insights into his thoughts and reasons for his brave decisions during his fight for freedom.

Rename Mount McKinley? Sarah Palin and Other Real Alaskans Weigh In

445 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Opinions Cultural Identity Public Figures Governance
  1. Mount McKinley is a significant landmark in Alaska and is part of the state's identity. Many locals see it as a stunning part of their outdoor lifestyle.
  2. Sarah Palin, a well-known Alaskan figure, expresses her admiration for the mountain, saying that it's awe-inspiring when viewed on clear days.
  3. The discussion around renaming Mount McKinley suggests a deeper conversation about local identity and the importance of recognizing indigenous names.

The History Lesson Democrats Can’t Afford to Forget

3872 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
  1. Trump won big in the recent elections, surprising many, including his own supporters. This shows that a significant portion of Americans, including diverse groups, are backing him.
  2. Democrats need to change their strategy if they want to win in future elections. Simply resisting Trump didn't work before, and they must find a better approach.
  3. Historically, the Democratic Party has bounced back from tough losses. They need to learn from the past and reach out to voters who feel ignored by their current focus on special interest groups.

Why the Deep State Loves Tariffs

579 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Tariffs Bureaucracy Lobbying Inflation Administrative state
  1. Tariffs raise prices for consumers, going against the goal of reducing inflation. It's a way for bureaucrats and lobbyists to benefit at the expense of everyday people.
  2. The system of tariffs is controlled by complex bureaucracies that aren't transparent. This means that the true impact and manipulation of tariffs can be hidden from public view.
  3. If someone wants to reduce the power of the government and its administration, getting rid of tariffs would be a good starting point.

Daniel Penny’s Innocence—and the Shame of Alvin Bragg

2406 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Law Justice Prosecution Public Opinion Civil Rights
  1. Daniel Penny was found not guilty, which some believe highlights the wrongful prosecution against him. People felt he was trying to protect others on the subway when he acted.
  2. The district attorney, Alvin Bragg, faced criticism for how he handled the case, implying that his approach was unethical and manipulative.
  3. There were serious concerns about the intent behind Penny's actions and whether his restraint actually caused the death, leading to questions about the justification for the charges against him.

On Killing Turkeys

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

What We’re Grateful For

2926 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Thanksgiving Gratitude Family Traditions American history
  1. Thanksgiving is a unique American holiday where people take a moment to express gratitude for what they have. It's a time to pause, reflect, and appreciate the love and connections in our lives.
  2. Even amid political divides, it’s important to remember the value of family gatherings and shared meals. Coming together can help bridge differences and create lasting memories.
  3. Gratitude comes from various sources - from simple pleasures like good health, family, and friends, to shared experiences and creative innovations that improve our lives.

The Folly of Freeing Ross Ulbricht

551 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Political parties Public Policy Criminal Justice
  1. Trump granted a full pardon to Ross Ulbricht, the founder of the Silk Road drug market. This move was seen as a way to appeal to Libertarians who have been advocating for his release.
  2. Many people believe this pardon goes against Trump's earlier promises of law and order. They argue it raises questions about his commitment to serious crime issues.
  3. The situation shows the tensions within political platforms about how to handle crime and punishment. Some see it as a step toward freedom, while others view it as a dangerous message.

America Should Not Become a Nation of Tiger Moms

1321 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Parenting Education Society Mental health Creativity
  1. Life is about more than just chasing a high salary or getting into a prestigious college. People need to enjoy their lives and find happiness in other ways.
  2. Overly strict parenting, like the 'Tiger Mom' approach, can lead to anxiety and depression in children. It's important to let kids have fun and make friends instead of just focusing on grades and achievements.
  3. A society that values creativity and risk-taking is important. Not everyone needs to be competitive; we need people doing everyday jobs too, like fixing cars or caring for others.

Has Europe’s Islamist Threat Come to America?

1187 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Terrorism Public Safety Crime Government Security
  1. There were two suspected terror attacks on New Year's Day in America, raising concerns about violence similar to what Europe has experienced.
  2. A truck driver drove into a crowd in New Orleans, resulting in at least 15 deaths and many injuries.
  3. After the truck attack, the driver shot at police before being killed, and IEDs were also found nearby, indicating a planned attack.

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.

Make Villains Evil Again

1377 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Film Literature Art Theater Traditions
  1. Villains are often given sad backstories nowadays, making them less scary. It's nice to see a movie where the villain is just pure evil, like in _Nosferatu_.
  2. The film _Nosferatu_ creates a chilling atmosphere, focusing on darkness and fear. It's set in a time when there was no electricity, which adds to the spooky vibe.
  3. Traditional Christmas decorations used to be very dangerous, like lighting trees with candles. These traditions reflect how people once dealt with the darkness of winter nights.

Ukrainians Are Sick of the War. But We’re Not Allowed to Say It.

2202 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict International relations Geopolitics War Public Opinion
  1. Many Ukrainians are growing tired of the ongoing war, but fear speaking up due to pressure to show loyalty. This can lead to feeling isolated and worried about being labeled a traitor.
  2. In the beginning of the conflict, there was a strong sense of unity and bravery among Ukrainians, with many willing to help each other despite the chaos.
  3. As time passed, the initial triumph over Russian forces faded, and some leaders began to prioritize public image over the well-being of people, shifting focus away from a potential peace.

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.

A Simple Litmus Test for RFK Jr.’s Ideas

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

Democrats Still Aren’t Listening. Texan Sheriffs vs. Mexican Cartels. Plus. . .

1669 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Policy Issues Legislation Government
  1. Many Democrats are struggling to understand why they lost support from working-class Americans. It's important for them to reconsider their focus on cultural issues that many voters see as distractions.
  2. In Texas, local sheriffs like Roy Boyd are actively fighting against drug cartels and human smuggling. Their creative approaches, like launching specific task forces, are showing real results.
  3. President-elect Trump is suing pollsters after they predicted a different outcome in Iowa. This may be part of a larger strategy to challenge media and regulatory norms around political speech.

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.

He Fought for Freedom. Then He Chose Prison.

2341 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Human Rights Authoritarianism Freedom of Speech International relations
  1. Jimmy Lai is a billionaire from Hong Kong who has been a strong critic of the Chinese government for many years. He founded a popular newspaper and has been involved in numerous pro-democracy protests.
  2. Lai is currently in solitary confinement in prison due to his political activities. Despite this, he remains hopeful and continues to write diary entries that show his strong spirit.
  3. He chose to stay and fight against oppression, even though he had the means to escape. His decision reflects his commitment to his supporters and the fight for freedom in Hong Kong.

I Joined TikTok Refugees on RedNote. Here’s What It’s Like.

686 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social media Trends Migration Censorship Communication
  1. Many people are moving from TikTok to a new app called RedNote due to concerns about a potential ban. This shift shows how social media changes quickly based on user needs.
  2. RedNote is a Chinese app that feels different from TikTok, with most content in Mandarin. Users are finding it hard to adjust since it mainly caters to a Chinese audience.
  3. Despite the differences, both American and Chinese users on RedNote are engaging together, often humorously referencing their cultural differences. This highlights how social media can connect people across boundaries.

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.

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.

The Democratic Coalition Has Shattered. Here’s How to Rebuild It.

3709 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
  1. The Democratic Party is struggling to connect with white working-class voters and those in rural areas. This makes it harder for them to win elections consistently.
  2. Democrats' focus on the values of educated, liberal Americans is leaving behind ordinary voters. Their appeal to the common man is not resonating as strongly as before.
  3. Recent election results show that demographic shifts are impacting the Democratic coalition negatively. The party needs to understand these trends to improve their chances in future elections.

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

2958 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
  1. W. Paul Coates is set to receive a National Book Award, even though he has published books that have antisemitic and homophobic themes. It's surprising that this isn't making more headlines.
  2. Coates is known for promoting controversial ideas and pseudoscience that offend many, particularly Jewish and LGBTQ+ communities. This raises questions about the recognition he's getting.
  3. The National Book Foundation is giving Coates the Literarian Award for his contributions to literature. This award typically honors significant literary achievements, making the choice more notable.

After Assad

1984 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Syria International relations Conflict resolution Political History
  1. Bashar al-Assad has fled Syria, marking a significant change in the Middle East. This could reshape alliances and power dynamics in the region.
  2. There's excitement about the potential for change, with people celebrating in the streets. Yet, there are concerns that the future may bring harsh rule or further conflict instead of a peaceful democracy.
  3. Western countries are preparing for various outcomes in Syria, including military actions to counter any threats that arise after Assad's departure.