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

Top posts of the year

And their main takeaways

I Raised $50 Million for the Democrats. This Week, I Voted for Trump.

12571 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
  1. Working in politics can lead to unexpected choices, even for longtime supporters of a party. It shows that beliefs can change over time.
  2. Voting for a candidate from the opposing party can be a way to express frustration with your own party. It's a bold move that some people might not understand.
  3. Personal experiences and feelings can sometimes outweigh party loyalty. This suggests that individual judgment is important in making political decisions.

Dreaming About Going Back to the Land? I Did It.

9993 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Nature Personal Growth Education Food
  1. Living on a farm brings a deep understanding of nature's realities. It's a reminder that not everything can be controlled, like waiting for hens to lay eggs.
  2. The transition from city life to a rural lifestyle can be challenging and unexpected. It often requires tough decisions, like dealing with the life and death of animals.
  3. Nature teaches valuable life lessons that many people might overlook in a digital age. Embracing these lessons can lead to personal growth and a reevaluation of what really matters in life.

Bari Weiss: The Old World Is Not Coming Back

9974 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
  1. Things we used to trust and rely on have changed and become uncertain. It's scary to realize that our stability is not guaranteed anymore.
  2. We are not outside of history; we are part of it and experiencing its shifts firsthand. This means we have to adapt to new realities.
  3. The world we knew is fading, and a new one is emerging that feels unpredictable. It’s important to acknowledge this change and prepare for what’s next.

Abigail Shrier: How the Gender Fever Finally Broke

9626 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Medical Ethics Public Policy Free speech Education
  1. There has been a significant shift in the conversation around gender identity, with actions taken to limit certain medical practices for children. This shows a growing recognition of the complexities involved with gender issues.
  2. Concerns have been raised about how young people, particularly young women, are navigating their identities. There were many urgent appeals for surgeries that might have long-term consequences.
  3. The debate around gender identity has become highly polarized, with some voices being suppressed, especially those that challenge popular narratives. This highlights the tension between free speech and activism in this area.

My Mom Was Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Then She Got Better.

9070 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Caregiving Medical system Alzheimer's Disease Family Dynamics
  1. The family faced a tough time after the mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, which came after years of unexplained symptoms. It was a shocking moment for them all, shifting their roles to caregivers.
  2. After a year of uncertainty and prayer, something unexpectedly positive happened that changed their situation. This turn of events felt like a miracle to the family.
  3. The experience highlighted the challenges of the medical system, as the mom had fallen through the cracks but eventually found a solution that helped her condition. It shows the importance of persistence and hope in difficult times.
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Paradise Lost

8685 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Public Safety Natural Disasters Crisis Management Policy response
  1. The Los Angeles fires are not just a natural disaster but are largely due to human actions. This highlights how our decisions can create serious risks for communities.
  2. Government should prioritize keeping people safe, especially during crises. Failing protection, it's important for leaders to show they're in control and supportive.
  3. When disasters happen, like the LA fires, leadership matters a lot. Missing leaders during critical times can leave the public feeling unsure and unsafe.

Niall Ferguson: J.D. Vance’s Fighting Words—Against Me and Ukraine

7892 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy War Negotiations Political Discourse Historical context
  1. Wars can start easily, but they are tough to end. It's important to understand this reality of history.
  2. Negotiating peace is necessary when fighting can't settle the conflict. Excluding one side from talks can hinder progress.
  3. Recent actions by government officials suggest a shift in their approach to the Ukraine conflict, indicating possible challenges ahead.

Eithan Haim: ‘We Took On the Federal Leviathan and We Won’

7410 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legal Healthcare Civil Rights Government Politics
  1. Dr. Eithan Haim faced serious legal trouble after exposing a children's hospital for performing gender surgeries on minors. He believed it was important to stand up against this practice.
  2. After a hard-fought battle, the charges against him were dropped by the Trump administration, allowing him to move on with his life and celebrate with his family.
  3. Despite the financial and emotional toll, Haim and his wife feel proud of their actions and believe they made the world a better place for children.

Things Worth Remembering: The Dangers of Multiculturalism

7391 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Crime Society Culture Rights
  1. There are crimes that society ignores because they go against popular beliefs. This makes it hard for people to talk about these issues openly.
  2. Many people are starting to recognize the serious problem of gang crimes that have targeted vulnerable young girls in specific communities.
  3. It's important for the public to be aware of these issues and to discuss them, even if it goes against the dominant narratives.

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.

Coleman Hughes: What American Students Aren’t Taught About Slavery

7085 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture History Education Arts Society Media
  1. Many American students aren't taught the full history and significance of slavery. It's important to understand this past to shape a better future.
  2. There's a wide discussion about how slavery has impacted many aspects of American culture and society. This includes different fields like business and social practices.
  3. Media and literature have changed how slavery is remembered, moving from ignoring it to exploring its deep legacy. This change helps us understand its effects on today's America.

I’m Finally Hanging My American Flag

7076 implied HN points • 03 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Patriotism Activism Identity History Culture
  1. The author grew up in an environment that viewed the American flag and patriotism negatively. Their upbringing focused on social justice and activism rather than celebrating the flag.
  2. The author's perspective changed over time, leading them to finally hang the flag outside their home, which signifies a shift in how they relate to their country's symbols.
  3. The flag has personal significance for the author, tied to the memories of their grandparents, yet they struggle with the conflict between national pride and historical injustices.

Things Worth Remembering: The Empathy of J.K. Rowling

6969 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Public Speaking Media Art Philosophy
  1. J.K. Rowling reminded everyone how powerful imagination can be during her speech at Harvard. It's a great reminder of the importance of creativity in our lives.
  2. Rowling is praised for being a brilliant and successful writer, despite facing controversy in recent years. Her talent and impact on literature shouldn't be overlooked.
  3. It's essential to appreciate remarkable people like Rowling while they are still alive. We often wait too long to celebrate the contributions of influential figures.

My Decade with Donald Trump

6821 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Reporting Public Opinion Elections Media Relations Political Analysis
  1. The author has a close relationship with Donald Trump and has often received personal greetings from him. This shows that Trump engages with journalists in a unique and informal way.
  2. The author was one of the few journalists who accurately predicted Trump's 2016 election win, gaining a reputation for understanding his supporters.
  3. Despite criticism for being too sympathetic to Trump, the author believes their reporting is based on genuine observation and experience with his voter base.

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.

Betsy DeVos: Shut Down the Department of Education

6654 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education & Policy Government reform Public funding Political Opinion
  1. The Department of Education has spent over $1 trillion since it started, but student performance gaps have only worsened. This shows that the department isn't fixing the issues it was made to address.
  2. Most students are falling behind, with many fourth graders struggling to read and do basic math. The scores for the lowest performing students are the worst they've ever been.
  3. The Department of Education mainly acts as a middleman that complicates funding without improving education. It doesn't run schools or employ teachers, so some believe it should be shut down.

Ayaan Hirsi Ali: Glastonbury—and the Purge of the Jews

6580 implied HN points • 29 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Antisemitism Protests Media International relations Free speech
  1. The Glastonbury festival saw performances intertwined with strong anti-Israel sentiments, showcasing a loud protest atmosphere. Many attendees were actively chanting against the Israeli military.
  2. Some performers used their platforms to express controversial views, including calls for harm against Israeli defense forces. This sparked discussions and backlash across various media.
  3. The coverage of these events highlights a growing trend of linking criticism of Israel with broader social movements, raising concerns about how this affects perceptions of Jewish communities.

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.

My Conversations With Luigi Mangione

6093 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political News Media Commentary Public Figures Crime Social Issues
  1. Surrendering your freedom to make choices can lead to losing everything else that's important in life. It's essential to maintain your agency.
  2. It's easy for people to jump to conclusions about someone's actions without really knowing them. Personal experiences can provide deeper insights.
  3. Detachment from intense situations can help gain clarity and allow for more reasoned thoughts afterward. Taking time to reflect is valuable.

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.

How Intellectuals Found God

5958 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Theism Philosophy Intellectualism Conversion Religion
  1. Many intellectuals, who once questioned or rejected God, are now finding faith. It's interesting to see a change in perspective among respected thinkers.
  2. One example is Matthew Crawford, who felt lost in his early life but experienced a spiritual transformation through personal connections and discussions about faith.
  3. The journey to finding God can often feel like a personal story of searching and discovery, rather than a simple acceptance of religious beliefs.

The Tiger Mother Roars Back

5907 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Figures Education Media Cultural Commentary Book Publishing
  1. Amy Chua, known for her strict parenting style, faced a lot of backlash when her book came out. Even though she was criticized, she continued to stand by her methods.
  2. J.D. Vance, a former student of Chua, found inspiration in her teachings and later wrote his own successful book, _Hillbilly Elegy_. Their connection shows how mentoring can help shape people's futures.
  3. Chua's influence extends beyond just her students, as her ideas about tough love in parenting resonate with many, sparking discussions about parenting styles and cultural differences.

EXCLUSIVE: Trump’s Day One Executive Order on ‘Male and Female’

5838 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Political Campaigns Gender Issues
  1. Trump plans to sign an executive order emphasizing traditional views on gender. He wants to remove policies allowing biological males in women's sports and facilities.
  2. The order aims to end the housing of male prisoners who identify as transwomen in women's prisons. This change is part of his broader push against gender ideology.
  3. The campaign ad contrasting Trump with Kamala Harris proved very effective by highlighting the debate over gender identity. It reinforced Trump's promise to fight against what he calls gender ideology extremism.

TGIF: Hellfire

5824 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Governance Public Policy Environmental Policy Emergency Management Urban Issues Crisis response
  1. California is facing major wildfires, causing devastation in Los Angeles and forcing evacuations for nearly 180,000 people. The situation is worsened by a shortage of resources and rising crime.
  2. The city government has been criticized for neglecting infrastructure improvements that could help in emergencies, like building water storage facilities. Years of red tape have delayed these critical projects.
  3. Environmental regulations are impacting water availability for firefighting efforts, with a small fish called the delta smelt blocking water releases. This situation highlights the tension between environmental concerns and urgent resource needs.

The Year of McDonald’s

5810 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Food culture Social Commentary Media Analysis Identity
  1. McDonald's is a key part of American culture and daily life, often reflecting larger social issues. It's more than just a fast-food place; it represents community and familiarity for many people.
  2. Recent events involving McDonald's, like a controversial Trump campaign stop and a notable arrest, highlight how deeply intertwined the brand is with current affairs and public interest.
  3. Some media reactions to incidents at McDonald's show a disconnect from the everyday experiences of regular customers, indicating a lack of understanding about what the restaurant means to people.

Things Worth Remembering: ‘He Died Standing Up’

5634 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🌐 International Terrorism European Politics
  1. Ten years ago, a terrible attack happened at Charlie Hebdo, killing many people, including the editor. It was one of the worst attacks on free press in recent history.
  2. The world seemed to unite in support for the victims, but not everyone was truly in favor of defending free speech. Many participated in demonstrations but didn't stand up for the values that were attacked.
  3. The notion of freedom of speech is worth defending, even if it comes at a cost. True support for the press means standing firmly by the principles, not just holding pencils in solidarity.

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.

The Biggest Peacetime Crime—and Cover-up—in British History

5546 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Crime Justice Government Scandal
  1. Thousands of young girls in England were victims of grooming and serial rape for many years, and it continues to be a serious issue. Many people in power ignored these crimes for too long.
  2. The scandal has led to public outrage and demands for accountability, as many feel that both Conservative and Labour governments tried to hide the truth. People are calling for a full investigation into the matter.
  3. Elon Musk's comments on social media brought attention to the case, leading to a larger conversation about the need for justice for the victims and reform in British politics.

Bari Weiss: American Regeneration

5439 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History Media Independence Culture Journalism
  1. The importance of unity is highlighted through Benjamin Franklin's cartoon from 1754, which called for American colonies to come together against common threats. Fighting together was seen as crucial for survival back then.
  2. The cartoon represents America's early form of media and communication, showing how ideas could spread before modern technology existed. It was like the first American meme when it was published.
  3. As we celebrate Independence Day, it's a reminder not just of historical events, but of the ongoing choice to uphold the values of freedom and togetherness that those events represent.

In Defense of the Great American Sleepover

5420 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Childhood Parenting Social norms Education Traditions
  1. Sleepovers are an important part of childhood and can help build friendships and social skills. They create lasting memories and experiences together.
  2. Some people believe that fewer sleepovers could lead to better academic outcomes and more focus on studying. They suggest prioritizing education over social activities.
  3. Critics of eliminating sleepovers argue that balance is key. Both social experiences and academic pursuits are important for a well-rounded development.

The Men Who Lost Their Babies

5393 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare Reproductive Health Mental health Women's Rights
  1. Men experience deep emotional pain during pregnancy loss, but their feelings are often overlooked by society and medical professionals. This can lead to feelings of isolation and grief that are not acknowledged.
  2. Doctors sometimes say insensitive things that can hurt men grieving the loss of a child. It shows a lack of understanding about how fathers feel and are affected by these tragedies.
  3. There's a stereotype that men don’t have a role in pregnancy and childbirth discussions, which can leave them feeling sidelined. It's important to recognize that fathers also have emotional connections to their unborn children.

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.

Bari Weiss: Against the Vandals

5318 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ideologies Conservatism Activism Political Events Journalism
  1. The Alliance for Responsible Citizenship aims to create a hopeful vision for the future and preserve the foundations of civilization. This shows a collective desire to bring about positive change in society.
  2. Recent political leaders like Javier Milei in Argentina and Giorgia Meloni in Italy have shown that strong leadership can lead to significant change, challenging the idea that decline is inevitable.
  3. Attending and participating in gatherings like ARC can feel energizing and affirming, especially when surrounded by like-minded individuals who care about important issues.

Coleman Hughes: The End of DEI

5258 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Race Executive orders Diversity Equity
  1. Trump's recent executive order aims to end racial preferences in various sectors, promoting a merit-based approach instead. This move is seen as a step towards a society that treats everyone equally, regardless of race.
  2. The author supports the idea of color blindness in policy, arguing that people should be judged on their abilities and not their race. This concept has sparked debate, with some critics labeling it as overly simplistic.
  3. There is a pushback against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs, with arguments suggesting they might create more division instead of harmony. The belief is that true equality should not focus on race or gender.

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.

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.

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 Explosion of Jew-Hate in Trudeau’s Canada

5147 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Antisemitism Government Public Safety Social Issues Civil Rights
  1. There has been a huge spike in antisemitic incidents in Canada, increasing by 670% recently. This alarming trend shows a significant rise in hatred and attacks against Jewish people.
  2. Many Canadian Jews feel increasingly unsafe and targeted, with feelings of victimization growing. Surveys indicate that a lot of them doubt the situation will improve anytime soon.
  3. Incidents of overt antisemitism have become more common on campuses and in communities, leading to a troubling normalization of hatred. This shift in attitudes is deeply concerning for those affected.

Our Promise to You

5133 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Politicians Media Public Opinion Policy
  1. Some people believe traditional media has too many rules that limit honest inquiry into controversial topics. They think this has hurt real journalism.
  2. There's a feeling that breaking the usual journalistic standards was okay to fight against what they see as extreme actions by certain political figures.
  3. Many in the media don't apologize for getting things wrong because they feel the greater goal justified those errors.