bad cattitude

The 'bad cattitude' Substack critiques contemporary societal and political issues, including the impact of media, education, healthcare, and technology on democracy, freedom of speech, and public health. It blends analysis with humor and skepticism, focusing on countering mainstream narratives and promoting individual thought.

Societal Critique Media and Journalism Healthcare and Medicine Academia and Education Technology and Privacy Politics and Democracy Cultural Commentary

The hottest Substack posts of bad cattitude

And their main takeaways

critical mass in the echo chamber

170 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ideology Cognitive dissonance Social Behavior Cancel Culture Authoritarianism
  1. People often find it hard to accept new information that contradicts their existing beliefs. They usually choose to ignore or reject this new data instead of changing their minds.
  2. When someone ties their self-worth to their beliefs, they can react strongly to any disagreement. This makes changes in opinion hard because it feels like a personal attack on their identity.
  3. Cancel culture can create a very homogeneous group where differing opinions are not tolerated. This leads to more extreme views and a lack of understanding of reality.

losing control of the crybully industrial complex

230 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public response Election Dynamics
  1. Some people manipulate situations to play the victim after provoking others. They create chaos and then blame others when they react.
  2. This tactic used to work better when media control was stronger. Now, people are starting to see through it and recognize the dishonesty.
  3. There is growing frustration with protesters and their methods. Many feel that these actions are unproductive and only alienate regular people.

kitten corner: emotional skills

108 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Millennials Social Commentary
  1. Emotional skills are important for coping with life. Learning how to manage feelings can help in tough situations.
  2. Understanding where our coping skills come from is helpful. This can open up discussions about generational differences.
  3. Sometimes, reflecting on our behaviors can lead to better emotional health. It's okay to realize and share our growth journeys.

sunday memepool 2

109 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25
😂 Humor Memes Comedy Satire Social media Culture
  1. Creating great memes takes skill and creativity. It's not just about funny pictures; it's about timing and context.
  2. Diligence is needed to achieve success in any creative field. You have to be persistent and put in the work.
  3. Engaging with your audience can enhance your content. Sharing your work and getting feedback helps you grow.

sunday memepool

101 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25
😂 Humor Memes Satire Comedy Culture Social Commentary
  1. Finding fun solutions can help tackle modern challenges. It's important to look for enjoyable ways to solve problems.
  2. The modern age has many difficulties, and it’s important to recognize those challenges. Understanding what's tough can help us deal with it better.
  3. False framing can mislead our perspectives, so we should question what we hear. Being critical of information is key to forming our own views.
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subverting the dominating paradigm

226 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Ideology Cultural critique Social movements Government Control
  1. Many modern movements aim to disrupt stable, successful structures in society. This is often done to create chaos and uncertainty.
  2. One strategy used by some groups is to undermine trust and belief in traditional values, making it easier for them to gain control.
  3. Standing strong in one's beliefs, having resilience, and seeking freedom are important to combat these negative influences.

assessing the los angeles ICEcapades

246 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Media Governance Public Opinion Political strategy
  1. Many people are frustrated with the way media portrays protests and riots, often downplaying violence. This makes it hard to trust what we see on TV.
  2. There's a feeling that immigration issues and safety are being ignored or mishandled by those in power, leading to unrest. People want clear solutions and accountability.
  3. A lot of folks are tired of political games and want straightforward discussions about issues affecting their communities. They hope for real change, not just protests for the sake of media attention.

kitten corner: LA story

190 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Media Lifestyle Social Issues Identity
  1. Marketing needs to be thoughtful and reflective of the message you want to send. It's important to consider the image and branding carefully.
  2. When creating movements or campaigns, the visuals used can greatly influence public perception. A strong image can either support or detract from your message.
  3. Even newcomers to marketing can understand that the right imagery plays a crucial role in any campaign, highlighting the need for strategic thinking.

DOGE vs trump

227 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Elections Political parties Public Opinion Government Policy
  1. Trump had a big chance to bring change but messed it up by focusing too much on himself instead of the team.
  2. Instead of fighting against corruption, he ended up creating confusion and losing trust among his supporters.
  3. Political change needs new ideas and can't rely on the same strategies that always fail. It's time to think differently to solve the problems.

learning about athletic gender reality

236 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Sports Policy Gender Issues Social justice Public Opinion
  1. There is a strong belief that allowing transgender girls to compete in women's sports creates an unfair advantage, as male biology often enhances athletic performance.
  2. Many believe that society is neglecting the rights and achievements of female athletes by allowing trans women to dominate in sports designed for women.
  3. The conversation around gender in sports is seen as a struggle between fairness for female athletes and the recognition of gender identity, leading to calls for separate competitions.

sunday extra mean pool

108 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Entertainment Society History
  1. The world can feel harsh and full of missed chances. It's important to recognize these feelings and acknowledge the challenges we face.
  2. Sometimes we need to take a step back and notice the things happening around us. This helps us stay aware of our experiences and struggles.
  3. Having a space to share these thoughts can be beneficial. Connecting with others helps us process what we feel together.

the real lessons find a way

224 implied HN points • 31 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Racism Identity politics Society Policy
  1. Many believe that topics like racism and inequality have become more prominent in schools, causing division rather than unity. Some argue this creates a cycle of blame without solving the actual problems.
  2. The impact of the COVID pandemic opened parents' eyes to what their children were learning in schools. This has sparked increased scrutiny and questions about education content.
  3. Young people today have faced challenging times, which has made them more resilient. Many believe these experiences are preparing them to succeed in the future compared to previous generations.

sunday memepool

94 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Humor Animals Memes Entertainment
  1. Animals can teach us a lot about wisdom and life. They have unique qualities that we can learn from.
  2. It's important to share funny and interesting content, like memes, especially about animals. They can brighten up our day.
  3. Engaging with a community, like in a paid subscription group, can enhance our experience and bring us together over shared interests.

being honest about dishonesty

203 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Scandals Social Science Progressivism Censorship Narrative control
  1. Dishonesty in academia has become a major issue, especially in progressive studies. Many researchers manipulate data to fit their narratives rather than focusing on truthful outcomes.
  2. There is a conflict between facts and the narratives some groups promote. This often leads to the suppression of real data to support specific ideologies or agendas.
  3. It’s important to question the integrity of studies that align closely with political beliefs. If researchers prioritize their ideologies over honest research, it can damage the credibility of science.

shrinking the world

249 implied HN points • 23 May 25
🕹 Technology AI Remote work Deepfakes
  1. AI technology is advancing quickly, making it hard to tell what's real and what's fake. This can lead to people losing trust in online interactions.
  2. Remote work has its ups and downs. While it offers flexibility, it can hurt teamwork and personal connections that happen in a physical office.
  3. As trust in digital communication decreases, we might turn back to in-person interactions. This could lead to stronger relationships and a return to community-focused living.

kitten corner: scooby doo reruns

149 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Pop culture Media Analysis Humor Public Opinion
  1. Current politics feels repetitive, just like watching too many episodes of Scooby Doo with the same ending. It can get boring to see the same patterns over and over.
  2. There's a call for new villains or challenges in politics to make things more interesting. Fresh ideas could spice things up.
  3. Using humor, like comparing politics to Scooby Doo, helps make the situation feel lighter and more relatable. It's a fun way to discuss serious topics.

a brave new fahrenheit 1984

204 implied HN points • 21 May 25
🚌 Education AI Ethics Critical Thinking Social Commentary Public Schools
  1. Education should focus on real learning instead of indoctrination. Many schools today seem to teach obedience rather than critical thinking.
  2. People in power often use social norms and control to suppress dissent and creativity. This can make it hard for individuals to think for themselves.
  3. Allowing more freedom in education and access to unfiltered information is important. Relying on the government to control what people learn may lead to biased and limited perspectives.

sunday meanpool

86 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
😂 Humor Memes Satire Comics Culture Social Commentary
  1. Times are tough right now, and many people are feeling the pressure. It's important to recognize the challenges we all face.
  2. Memes can provide a light-hearted way to cope with difficult situations. They help us find humor even when things are hard.
  3. Sharing experiences and laughter with others can make tough times more bearable. Community support is really valuable during hard days.

sunday memepool: heroes and villains

86 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
😂 Humor Memes Parody Internet culture Social Commentary Entertainment
  1. The post is focused on memes related to heroes and villains, inviting readers to engage with this theme. It's meant to create a fun and entertaining atmosphere for the audience.
  2. Readers are encouraged to be prepared for this weekend's memes, suggesting a lively and dynamic experience. The anticipation adds excitement to the readers' experience.
  3. This content is intended for paid subscribers, which emphasizes the value of exclusive content in connecting with the community. It highlights the importance of supporting creators through subscriptions.

sunday memepool 2

91 implied HN points • 25 May 25
😂 Humor Memes Satire Comics Commentary Parody
  1. Truth is important, and it's good to share honest opinions with others. Talking about what you really think helps everyone understand each other better.
  2. Hard work is necessary to achieve your goals. If you want to succeed, you need to put in the effort and practice regularly.
  3. Learning and discussing different perspectives can open your mind. Engaging in conversations can help you grow and see things differently.

DOGE and the budget audit of doom

462 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Corruption Economy Public Spending
  1. The new players in Washington are determined to shake things up, working outside the old systems to create real change. Expect to see major shifts in government operation due to their influence.
  2. Government agencies are overwhelmed and struggling to maintain control as corruption and inefficiency are exposed. The push for more transparency means many hidden layers of mismanagement could be revealed.
  3. Without accountability for spending, many federal programs and jobs could be cut. The focus will shift to ensuring that taxpayer money is used properly, potentially cleaning up long-standing issues.

morning in america

344 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Climate Public Policy Propaganda Social Issues Governance Mental health
  1. People have started to feel more hopeful and positive lately, even if the problems haven't fully disappeared. There's a sense that things might be getting better.
  2. Humiliation and constant control can really wear people down and make them feel helpless. When daily annoyances pile up, it can crush a person's spirit.
  3. Believing that tomorrow will be better can create a positive cycle. Hope can return when people feel like there's a chance for improvement in the future.

1776 2.0: dismantling the aristocracy

352 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Government Accountability Political corruption Civil Liberties
  1. Complicity can trap leaders into a life of allegiance to harmful practices. When people are part of unjust actions, they are often unable to change their ways.
  2. There's a long history of the powerful abusing their positions, often under a system that protects the elite. This leads to a cycle of unaccountability and harm that persists through generations.
  3. The current moment is viewed as a chance to challenge this old system of aristocracy. It’s time to expose wrongdoings and push for true accountability to rebuild a just society.

DOGE due diligence at treasury

314 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Transparency Corruption Law Finance
  1. Since 1946, U.S. presidents and their advisors haven't had access to the government's payment system. This lack of transparency has been a long-standing issue.
  2. Many former treasury secretaries are upset about attempts to make the payment system more visible. They believe this openness threatens the way things have always been done.
  3. There's a push for greater auditing and transparency in government spending. People want to hold officials accountable and make sure tax dollars are spent properly.

the winds of phase change

293 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Media Control Elites Censorship Culture Wars
  1. People are starting to recognize that they have been misled and manipulated by a small elite, realizing they're not alone in feeling this way. It's like a collective awakening to the truth.
  2. Cancel culture is about silencing voices and creating division among people. It aims to maintain control by making individuals afraid to express non-mainstream views.
  3. Recent events, like the changes brought by social media, show that the elite's control is weakening. More people are finding their voices and uniting against those who try to keep them isolated.

the end of weaponized empathy

315 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Cultural critique Political Dynamics Public Sentiment
  1. Some people manipulate others by pretending to be fragile or hurt. This can make it hard for others to say no, even when they should.
  2. Over time, people start to notice when they are being used, which can lead to a breakdown in these manipulative tactics. The strategy stops working as people become less sympathetic.
  3. It's okay to not fix everyone's problems or feel guilty for their struggles. Recognizing this helps protect your own well-being.

the teutonic tragedy

251 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Economic Policy Energy Policy Civil Liberties Democracy Public Opinion
  1. Germany's energy prices have skyrocketed, mainly due to heavy reliance on renewable resources that are unreliable. This is causing significant challenges for industries that need stable electricity.
  2. The EU's economy is struggling overall, with German GDP stagnating since 2017. This highlights a larger issue within the EU's economic framework.
  3. There's a growing discontent with government policies in Germany, leading to support for populist parties that promise to restore cheaper energy and address immigration issues.

munchausen by medical board

279 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Child welfare Social Policy Mental health
  1. There is concern that children are being pushed into identifying as a different gender without proper evaluation, which can cause lasting harm. Many believe that this trend is influenced by society rather than individual feelings.
  2. Medical professionals are often required to affirm a child's gender identity without considering other underlying issues. This can prevent a comprehensive understanding of the child's mental health needs.
  3. Critics argue that the medical approach to gender transition for young people can be harmful. They suggest that the focus should be on providing support and understanding rather than medical intervention.

a crisis of competence

332 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Public Policy Environmental Issues Societal Issues Media Critique
  1. Society seems to have lost its ability to think critically and evaluate leaders' competence. Many people now accept poor decisions without question.
  2. There is a growing trend of placing individuals in important roles based on factors like identity instead of skills or experience, which leads to ineffective systems.
  3. People are becoming demoralized and feel helpless, believing there's nothing they can do to change the issues around them.

unpardonable pardons

291 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Policy Law Corruption
  1. The pardoning of individuals related to January 6 raises serious concerns about justice and accountability. It seems to give a free pass to those who may have acted unlawfully while in power.
  2. A dangerous precedent is set when political figures can use pardons to avoid consequences for their actions. This undermines trust in the system and holds the potential for abuse of power.
  3. Despite the pardons, there's still a chance to pursue the truth by calling on those involved to testify. They could face new charges for lying, which might encourage honesty and accountability moving forward.

flood the zone

269 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Regulations Policy Bureaucracy Elections
  1. A significant change is happening in government, aiming to reduce waste and increase efficiency. This might mean many current programs are being cut back.
  2. There's a new focus on meritocracy, meaning qualified people will be put in positions instead of relying on connections. This could improve government operations.
  3. To make these changes last, there needs to be a legal framework supporting them. Court actions could ensure that reductions in federal power remain in place for the future.

saturday overton musings

247 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Censorship Political Discourse Social norms
  1. The way we talk about things is changing, and there are shifts happening around what can be said in public. This gives people more freedom to express their thoughts without worrying so much about censorship.
  2. People are starting to stand up against the fear of backlash for what they say. It’s important to speak openly and to set standards about what is acceptable to talk about.
  3. The recent changes show us that we can push back against bullying behavior in conversations. By speaking honestly and boldly, we can change the way discussions happen and reclaim our rights to express different viewpoints.

the porkulous is dead

336 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Social media Governance Public Opinion Political strategy
  1. Social media changed how people discuss and analyze big bills. Instead of waiting for Congress to pass a bill without scrutiny, people can now quickly share and dissect it online.
  2. More eyes on a problem means faster and better solutions. With many people looking at a bill, issues can be spotted and addressed almost instantly, making it harder for Congress to sneak in unwanted parts.
  3. The rise of social media has empowered everyday people to hold Congress accountable. Now, representatives who engage with social media can access real-time feedback from their constituents, leading to stronger governance.

congressional immunity

327 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Congress Legislation Accountability Government Policy
  1. The new funding bill includes a hidden section that grants Congress members immunity from legal oversight. This means they can ignore subpoenas and investigations, making it hard to hold them accountable.
  2. This immunity is retroactive, which could stop ongoing legal cases from gathering important data from Congress. It's like they're protecting themselves from any scrutiny of their actions.
  3. Such actions go against the idea that public officials should be accountable to the people. If Congress can avoid investigation, it's a big problem for democracy.

assessing the case for pardoning fauci

233 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Politics Law Health Public Policy Government
  1. Pardoning Fauci may send a message that he is being protected from accountability. This could shape public opinion in favor of Fauci rather than promote transparency.
  2. Many people are not aware of the controversies surrounding the NIH's role in COVID-19. It's important to publicize the facts to educate the general public.
  3. There should be accountability for public figures like Fauci. Exposing the truth about their actions can help prevent similar issues in the future.

puberty disruptors

194 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Education & Policy Health Policy Child welfare Gender identity
  1. Children are going through confusing times during puberty, and it's normal for them to feel lost. Instead of supporting them through these challenges, some ideas today make them feel like they should question their gender, which can lead to more confusion.
  2. There are serious risks in pushing kids towards gender-changing treatments without fully understanding the consequences. These medical actions can change their lives forever in harmful ways.
  3. Our society needs to focus on helping kids understand that feeling awkward during puberty is okay. We should protect them from ideas that could cause more harm rather than supporting them through their natural development.

kitten corner: DOGE derangement syndrome

181 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Humor Cultural critique Media Analysis Social Commentary Legal issues
  1. It's not good to make guesses about why someone did something wrong. A legal system should be based on clear evidence, not assumptions.
  2. There's a lot of talk about 'derangement syndrome' related to various people or issues, which can make discussions overly emotional and irrational.
  3. Having strong feelings about a person or a topic can cloud judgment, so it's important to stay objective and focused.

deregulating barn raising fixes this

226 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Economics Disaster Recovery Regulation Public Policy
  1. Government help often doesn't work well during disasters. People usually find it more helpful to rely on local efforts and free markets instead.
  2. Price controls and regulations can hurt recovery by limiting supply and making it harder to rebuild. Higher prices actually signal that more help is needed.
  3. Bureaucratic rules can create more problems than they solve, slowing down aid and making recovery from disasters much harder for communities.