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

Peggy Noonan: On Loving America

3533 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
  1. America is seen as a good and valuable country, representing progress in history. This idea reflects a belief in the country's unique role and achievements.
  2. The founding of America is viewed as a remarkable event, with the creators coming together at the right time with special talents. This is sometimes believed to be by chance or providence.
  3. A forthcoming book, 'A Certain Idea of America,' discusses various influences on the nation over the past decade, highlighting both positive and negative forces shaping America today.

Biden’s Hunter Hypocrisy, What’s Happening in Syria, and More

2230 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Relations Political Scandals Government Policy
  1. Hunter Biden was pardoned by his father, President Biden, despite earlier claims that such a pardon would not happen. This has raised questions about honesty and the use of presidential powers.
  2. The situation in Syria is escalating, with rebel groups challenging the government's authority, which adds to the existing tensions in the Middle East.
  3. Many people struggle with smartphone addiction, as shown by an artist who quit her phone to regain control over her life and live in the moment.

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.

Free Press LIVE: My Mom Was Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Then She Got Better.

839 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Patient Care Aging Psychology
  1. Misdiagnosis in healthcare can lead to unnecessary grief, as seen in one family's experience with Alzheimer's. It highlights how important it is for doctors to view patients as whole individuals rather than just a set of symptoms.
  2. Many people relate to the struggles of misdiagnosis and want to share their stories. This shows that there is a larger conversation around the issues in the medical system that need attention.
  3. Connecting with others who have faced similar health challenges can provide hope and community support. There is a need for open discussions about healthcare and the potential for better outcomes.

Caitlin Clark’s Conundrum

1636 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🎾 Sports Women's Sports Basketball Media Coverage Sports culture
  1. Caitlin Clark is a groundbreaking talent in women's basketball, making a big impact on the WNBA during her rookie year.
  2. The WNBA has struggled to gain the same attention and viewership as the NBA, but Clark's presence could change that.
  3. Having Clark featured on the cover of Time magazine highlights her talent and could help raise the profile of women's basketball.
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Is $TRUMP a Scam?

426 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🔮 Crypto Digital Currency Investment Regulation Market Trends
  1. President Trump recently launched a meme coin called $TRUMP that quickly reached a market cap of $14 billion.
  2. There's a lot of debate about whether this coin is a smart investment or a Ponzi scheme.
  3. The launch of $TRUMP and $MELANIA coins has greatly increased the couple's reported net worth, at least on paper.

Is WWIII Already Underway? Is Hegseth Toast? Plus. . .

2054 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political News Elections Government International relations Social Issues
  1. There are serious questions about Pete Hegseth's nomination for Secretary of Defense, as he faces multiple allegations and public scrutiny. Even his own mother had to defend him on TV, which isn't a good sign.
  2. Young Canadians are increasingly dissatisfied with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, feeling financial pressure that is leading them to consider more conservative options. This shift is significant, as this generation once strongly supported him.
  3. Many young Russians are escaping to Bali to avoid being drafted into the Ukraine war. They express feelings of being caught in a conflict they don’t support and want to find a safe place away from the violence.

The Latino Democrats Who Flipped for Trump: A Report from the Border

3116 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
  1. Alberto Olivares switched from being a lifelong Democrat to a Republican because he felt that the Democrats, especially under Obama, weren't supporting law enforcement. Changing parties was hard for him since it felt like leaving his family's values behind.
  2. Starr County, Texas, which is mostly Latino, used to be a stronghold for Democrats for over 130 years. But recently, it voted for Trump, marking a big shift in the area's political landscape.
  3. Olivares noted that the Republican Party is becoming more like what the Democrats used to represent. Many voters now identify more with Republican ideas, creating a surprising political change in a traditionally Democratic area.

Gender-Care Whistleblowers Go to Court. Plus. . .

2031 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Healthcare policy Gender Issues Government Accountability Activism
  1. Two main court cases are examining gender-affirming care for minors. One case involves the Biden administration challenging a Tennessee ban on these treatments, while the other focuses on a doctor who faced legal issues after whistleblowing about such practices.
  2. Whistleblowers like Jamie Reed and Dr. Eithan Haim have raised concerns about the impact of gender transition on young patients. They argue that the current medical system could be misleading vulnerable youth, leading to regret after irreversible procedures.
  3. These ongoing legal battles highlight the larger debate around gender care, with differing opinions on safety and ethics. Many are calling for more science-based approaches rather than political influence in these sensitive matters.

Peter Thiel and the Triumph of the Counter-Elites

2921 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
  1. Donald Trump has announced a new initiative called the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy.
  2. There has been a cultural shift where outsiders like Peter Thiel, once criticized for supporting Trump, are now seen as part of a new wave of influential figures in politics and technology.
  3. Thiel's investments have been very successful, and he believes that the next Trump administration will bring in antiestablishment figures to create significant changes in government and society.

How ‘The Babylon Bee’ Predicted the Vibe Shift

913 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Satire Comedy Free speech Political Commentary Media
  1. The Babylon Bee is a conservative satire site that found success by filling a void in political humor, particularly when most comedy was coming from the left. They use humor to comment on current events and political absurdities.
  2. The site has faced scrutiny and censorship from big tech companies for its jokes, especially those that challenge progressive ideas. Their CEO believes defending satire is crucial for free speech.
  3. Many of the Babylon Bee's jokes have turned out to be surprisingly prophetic, capturing and predicting cultural trends and reactions. This shows how humor can reflect and influence the times.

Jerry Springer Was Trash. But He Was Honest.

723 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Television Entertainment Society Pop culture
  1. Jerry Springer was unapologetic about the shocking content he presented on his show. He focused on giving viewers what they actually wanted, even when it was controversial.
  2. His show was popular, drawing millions of viewers, but also sparked criticism for being immoral and exploitative. Some episodes were so outrageous they were even banned.
  3. Springer was seen as a disruptive figure in American media, compared to more wholesome personalities like Oprah, positioning himself as the 'black sheep' of talk shows.

Meet the Indians Locked Out of the American Dream

728 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Legislation Social Issues Economics Labor Market
  1. Many immigrants find that the American dream feels unreachable due to strict visa regulations. These rules can make it hard for them to change jobs or start their own businesses.
  2. People like Atal Agarwal feel trapped by their immigration status, limiting their career choices and dreams. They often feel pressure to stick with jobs they may not want.
  3. Returning to their home country can feel like a loss of opportunity for some immigrants, especially when they have invested so much in their education and work in the U.S.

Inside the Free Press Inauguration Party

431 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Media influence Public Figures Government Election
  1. The Free Press hosted an exciting inauguration party in Washington, D.C., attracting many influential guests. It was a lively event blending different people from politics, media, and entertainment.
  2. Guests included notable figures like Ted Cruz, Jillian Michaels, and several prominent media personalities. The gathering showcased a mix of ideas and perspectives from various parts of society.
  3. The event highlighted the themes of change and uncertainty that come with new leadership. It also marked the start of The Free Press's journey in covering news with independence and fearlessness.

Is Justin Trudeau’s Government on the Brink of Collapse?

1432 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Leadership Policy Resignation Trade
  1. Justin Trudeau's government might be close to collapsing due to recent political turmoil. The resignation of an important ally has weakened his position significantly.
  2. Donald Trump's recent post about imposing tariffs on Canada could have serious implications for Trudeau. This situation seems to have added more pressure on his government.
  3. Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland's resignation is a major blow to Trudeau, as she was one of his closest collaborators. Her fiery letter highlights increasing tensions within the government.

Meet Kemi Badenoch, New Tory Leader and Would-Be Thatcher. Plus. . .

1576 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Leadership Party Politics Public Policy Political Legacy Elections
  1. Kemi Badenoch is the new leader of the UK Conservatives and faces big challenges after her party's recent losses. She wants to fix her party and bring back traditional values to revive the UK economy.
  2. Badenoch sees herself as a defender of classic liberal values, which she believes are under threat. She wants to protect ideas like free speech and the rule of law from progressive ideologies.
  3. Angela Merkel's legacy is viewed negatively now compared to eight years ago, with critics pointing to her policies as contributing to Europe's issues today. Her memoir tries to explain her controversial decisions during her time in office.

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.

Should a Government Help People Die?

2142 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare system Disability Rights Legislation Public Policy
  1. Jamie Hale needs constant care due to his serious health issues and feels grateful for the National Health Service's support. Without it, he worries he might not be alive today.
  2. Hale is aware that his medical care costs a lot and feels like a financial burden on the system. This awareness makes him think deeply about his value and how society sees it.
  3. He strongly opposes the assisted suicide bill in the UK, worried it might pressure vulnerable people like himself to end their lives. He fears this could gradually lead to more extreme measures against disabled and disadvantaged individuals.

The Essential Free Press Gift Guide

1474 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Products Gifts Personal Stories Consumer Trends
  1. Finding simple items that make daily tasks easier can be a game-changer. A product that solves a small problem often ends up being your favorite.
  2. Sharing life-changing products with others feels rewarding. When you discover something great, you want others to benefit from it too.
  3. Gift ideas can be practical and still bring joy. A useful gift, like a luggage scale, can make travel stress-free and improve the overall experience.

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 MAGA Attack on a Trump Nominee—and the Problem with the Woke Right

927 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration National Identity Political Ideologies Racism
  1. There's a split in the MAGA movement over immigration, especially regarding skilled workers and H-1B visas. Some believe they help the economy, while others see them as a threat to American jobs.
  2. The controversy over Sriram Krishnan's nomination highlights issues of race and identity within this debate. Many critiques against him seem to stem from racism towards immigrants of color.
  3. The debate reflects a larger question for the right: Do they want a country that values equal opportunity for everyone, or one that favors certain groups while pushing others out?

Her Son Went for a Walk. She Was Charged with ‘Reckless Conduct.’ Plus. . .

2309 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
  1. In the U.S., some parents are facing legal trouble for allowing their kids to explore alone, like a mom who got arrested just because her son walked a short distance to see a friend. This shows a shift in how society views child independence and parental responsibility.
  2. There is ongoing debate about the potential medical benefits of psychedelics, but some believe the push for approval has been hindered by poor science and overly optimistic attitudes. A more careful and realistic approach could be needed to get these substances approved for medical use.
  3. Israel may need U.S. support for any major military action against Iran's nuclear program, raising questions about how the new Trump administration will respond to such situations. This reflects the complexities of international relations and military strategy.

Why I Left Norway

1553 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Taxation Investment Startups Innovation
  1. High taxes in Norway, including a new unrealized gains tax, made it hard for entrepreneurs to keep their businesses profitable and maintain ownership. They struggled to balance their income with the need to pay these taxes.
  2. Many successful Norwegian entrepreneurs are leaving the country to escape burdensome taxes, and this trend is affecting the wealth distribution in Norway. A significant number of top taxpayers have relocated to protect their wealth.
  3. The situation in Norway reflects a troubling pattern where government policies may stifle innovation and entrepreneurship. This has created an environment where those who want to build businesses feel they have no choice but to move elsewhere.

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.

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.

The Strange Grief of Losing a Dog

876 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Relationships Grief Family Pets Memory
  1. Losing a pet, especially a dog, can lead to deep feelings of grief and loneliness. Coming home to the absence of a beloved dog can be especially hard.
  2. Grief can feel different depending on who we lose. Each relationship shapes our feelings of loss in unique ways, whether it’s a child, friend, parent, or pet.
  3. Holidays often bring back memories of lost loved ones, including pets. These times can stir up both sweet memories and painful feelings of absence.

Can RFK Jr. Make America Healthy Again?

2295 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
  1. RFK Jr. is promoting a new slogan, 'Make America Healthy Again,' highlighting concerns about public health in the country. This suggests many believe America is not as healthy as it should be.
  2. A lot of Americans struggle with health issues, like diabetes and obesity, and drug overdose rates are alarmingly high. These problems emphasize the urgent need for a new approach to healthcare.
  3. While some of RFK Jr.'s ideas about health are worth considering, he also holds controversial views that lack scientific backing. It’s important to question and discuss his proposals critically.

Porn Is Inevitable

491 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Law Society Sexuality Politics
  1. The Supreme Court is reviewing laws that require age verification on porn sites, but porn will likely continue to exist regardless of the outcome.
  2. Many states have introduced laws to prevent minors from accessing pornography, citing concerns about the impact on youth.
  3. Despite these regulations, the history of porn shows it's always been around and is easily accessible online, making these laws largely ineffective.

The ‘Wild, Wild West’ of the American Egg Donor Industry

1711 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Fertility Medical Ethics Women's Health Healthcare access
  1. The egg donation industry is often seen as an easy way to make money, but it comes with hidden long-term risks that many donors don't fully understand.
  2. Donors like Kaylene Breeding can experience serious health issues after donating, such as fertility problems and chronic pain.
  3. There is a lack of research on the long-term effects of egg donation, leaving many donors unaware of the potential consequences to their health.

RFK Jr. Says Drug Addicts Need Tough Love. Is He Right?

769 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Addiction Treatment Government Role Public Health
  1. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. believes in a tough love approach to help drug addicts, which means putting pressure on them to quit using drugs. He feels this method can be more effective than just accepting their addiction.
  2. Kennedy wants the government to take a strong stance against drug use, suggesting that those who refuse help might face jail time. This idea aims to push addicts towards getting the help they need.
  3. His philosophy contrasts with harm reduction strategies that focus on minimizing the risks of drug use instead of forcing users to quit. This suggests a significant divide in how society views addiction treatment.

Inside Assad’s ‘Human Slaughterhouse.’ Plus. . .

1298 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Geopolitics Conflict Human Rights Religion
  1. The fall of Assad's regime in Syria marks a major change in the country's political landscape. Many people are unsettled about what this means for safety and future leadership.
  2. Syria's Christians are particularly worried about their safety and what might happen next now that Assad is gone. There are fears that the new leaders might not protect them.
  3. The harsh reality of Assad's regime is becoming clearer as people look back on the horrors of his rule. Many are seeking answers about missing loved ones and want to confront the legacy of violence in places like Sednaya prison.

John Bolton: Why America Needs Greenland

709 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Security Foreign Policy International relations Government Diplomacy
  1. The idea of the U.S. buying Greenland isn't new, and Trump has talked about it several times, suggesting it's important for national security.
  2. Greenland has historical ties to U.S. security interests, especially since World War II, when it helped protect against threats in the North Atlantic.
  3. Ambassador John Bolton believes there's a strong case for the U.S. to pursue this acquisition, although he thinks Trump's approach has complicated things.

How to Fix the NIH

1372 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Health Policy Chronic Illness Healthcare system
  1. Institute directors should have term limits of 5 to 10 years. This helps bring in new ideas and prevents one person from holding too much power for too long.
  2. More funding needs to go towards preventing chronic diseases rather than just treating them. Preventive care is important for keeping people healthy and can save money in the long run.
  3. The NIH should be more transparent about financial conflicts of interest. People deserve to know how research funding is influenced by financial ties to the industry.

Gen Xers for Trump. Plus. . .

2170 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
  1. Donald Trump is facing challenges in getting his cabinet picks confirmed, especially with Matt Gaetz as attorney general, due to serious ethics concerns and disapproval from conservatives.
  2. Generation X is surprisingly supportive of Trump, with many feeling disillusioned and wanting to break free from previous societal expectations.
  3. In places like the Bronx, voters are splitting their tickets between different parties, showing that not everyone sees politics as just Red or Blue.

Is a Foreign Adversary Flying Drones over New Jersey?

1303 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Security Government Defense Public Policy Surveillance
  1. There have been strange reports of large drones flying over critical places in New Jersey. Residents are confused and want to know where these drones are coming from.
  2. A congressman suggested that an Iranian mothership is behind the drone sightings, but this claim was quickly denied by the Pentagon. They said there is no evidence of such a mothership.
  3. Local and state officials are struggling to provide clear answers about the drones. Despite concerns, the Pentagon states that there has been no threat to military installations.

My School Experimented with ‘Education Equity.’ It Failed.

1381 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🚌 Education Equity Teaching Learning STEM
  1. Mixing high-achieving and low-performing students in the same classes didn't work as intended. It led to negative outcomes for students who were doing well.
  2. The idea behind the 'multilevel classrooms' was to help students transition easily between different levels of difficulty. However, it was challenging to teach when students had very different skill levels.
  3. Though the mixed-class approach had some success in certain subjects, it struggled in STEM and language classes where a strong foundation is needed. Teachers found it hard to meet everyone's needs.

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

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

How to Fix Immigration. Plus. . .

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

Shopping Is Not a Legitimate Hobby

440 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Hobbies Consumerism Art Fashion Media
  1. Shopping isn't a real hobby. It often lacks the skill and creativity needed for true hobbies.
  2. Many people enjoy talking about buying things, but this can feel shallow compared to hobbies that involve making or doing.
  3. There's a distinction between enjoying a product and having a meaningful hobby that involves skill and passion.

Yes, Trump Is a Demagogue. But So Were Many of His Forebears.

352 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Rhetoric Presidential History
  1. Demagoguery is when leaders use people's emotions to gain power, and it can be both good and bad depending on how it's used.
  2. The American founders were worried about demagoguery because they thought it could harm the government and public trust.
  3. Many people find it hard to talk about demagoguery because they often see it as just a bad thing, but it's actually a more complex issue in politics.