David Friedman’s Substack

David Friedman's Substack explores a wide range of subjects from economic principles and climate change to intellectual debates and law enforcement, emphasizing critical thinking, skepticism towards mainstream narratives, and the interplay of natural and social sciences in understanding human behavior and societal issues.

Critical Thinking and Truth Seeking Political and Economic Theories Science and Climate Change Legal and Ethical Considerations Societal and Cultural Analysis Philosophy and Morality Education and Learning Methods Technology and Society

The hottest Substack posts of David Friedman’s Substack

And their main takeaways

Friday Funnies: Resistance is Futile

41 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
😂 Humor Comedy Satire Memes Political Humor Social Commentary
  1. Christmas is approaching, and it seems like people are sharing leftover holiday humor. It’s a good time to enjoy some light-hearted fun.
  2. Some individuals feel that certain groups don’t understand or acknowledge their current situations. It can be frustrating when others seem out of touch.
  3. The importance of a supportive community is emphasized. It's nice to uplift each other and not let negativity spoil the mood.

Sunday Strip: The Ghost of Future Past -

46 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Government Policy Public Opinion Political Events
  1. Wokeness seems to continue lingering, even when people think it's fading away. It's a reminder that some ideas can be persistent.
  2. Many federal workers didn't return after lockdowns. This shows how the workforce is changing and could impact government operations.
  3. There's discussion about rebranding and how it affects companies. If they shift too much toward a particular trend, it might backfire on them.

Friday Funnies: New Math

37 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
😂 Humor Satire Comedy Social Commentary Political Humor Current Events
  1. Red meat has been linked to cancer, highlighting the need to be careful about dietary choices.
  2. The government used to promote self-sufficiency and healthy living to encourage pride in citizens, but now the messages seem different.
  3. Humor can be a way to cope with changes in society, offering a light-hearted take on serious issues.

Friday Funnies: While Rome Burns,

38 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Current Events Public Policy Social Issues Political Commentary
  1. Wealthy millennials are leaving California more than any other state. This shows that many people are looking for better opportunities elsewhere.
  2. Los Angeles is facing significant challenges, and some experts are providing strong analyses of this situation. It's important to stay informed about local politics and developments.
  3. There are interesting nostalgic stories and visuals shared that transport viewers back to old times in places like Ireland. It highlights how much history and culture can be captured and appreciated.

Sunday Strip: Don't Celebrate Yet!

43 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Public Health Political strategy Media influence Social Issues
  1. Energy and psychological warfare play a big role in current events. It's important to be aware of the influences around us.
  2. Celebrations may not be well-founded yet. It’s a reminder to be cautious and think critically about what we see and hear.
  3. Enjoying simple moments in life, like time with family or pets, can bring joy and balance amidst the chaos.
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Latest "Bird Flu" Psyop

38 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Pharmaceuticals Infectious Diseases Government Policy
  1. The 'bird flu' situation is being used as a psychological operation to manipulate public perception. The reality is that current cases have no risk of spreading between humans and the death rate is much lower than reported.
  2. Vaccination schedules for diseases like tetanus might be overhyped. Research suggests that the immunity from these vaccines lasts much longer than what's currently recommended, meaning fewer shots could be needed.
  3. Public health strategies are becoming overly reliant on vaccination, ignoring other effective treatments. It may be worth considering older treatments and ways to handle infectious diseases without constant vaccination.

Friday funnies: Black Friday -

43 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Family Traditions Consumerism Food Community
  1. Cooking on a wood stove can bring joy and a sense of peace by connecting you to simplicity and family. It's nice to step away from modern conveniences sometimes.
  2. When choosing gifts for the holidays, consider supporting American-made products. Look for items that are useful and come from local or long-standing companies.
  3. Using cast iron cookware, like Lodge products, is a healthier and durable choice for your kitchen. They can last for years and even be found at thrift stores.

Sunday Strip: Swamp Monsters-

37 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Politics Public Health Media Society Regulation
  1. Some people believe there are bad influences that are hidden, like 'swamp monsters', affecting society. It's important to be aware of these unseen issues.
  2. There's a long history of these problems, suggesting that they didn't just appear recently. Many believe they have been around for a long time.
  3. Understanding these complex issues can help people make better choices and find ways to push back against negativity in their lives.

Sunday Strip: The End of an Error

38 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Censorship Deep State Political Analysis
  1. There is concern about the influence of deep state organizations and administrative systems on government decisions. Many believe this conflicts with what the public wants.
  2. The past presidency of Donald Trump faced challenges from these deep state forces, and some doubt whether he can succeed in addressing them if he is elected again.
  3. There are fears that censorship is growing in collaboration between governments, especially in the EU and the US, and that it poses a risk to public freedom.

Friday Funnies: Do You Hear What I Hear?

39 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
😂 Humor Comics Satire Jokes Entertainment Media
  1. Robert Malone is a notable figure in discussions relating to vaccines and medical innovation. He is often recognized for his contributions to immunology.
  2. Humor and light-hearted content are important in communication, especially during serious discussions. They help keep the conversation engaging and approachable.
  3. Staying informed and understanding different viewpoints is crucial in today's world. It allows for more meaningful discussions and helps in making informed decisions.

Behind the Curtain of the New CDC Panel on Vaccines

14 implied HN points • 06 Jul 25
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Policy Medical Ethics Regulation
  1. The new CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has been completely restructured with new members, who are experienced in vaccine development. This change aims to bring fresh perspectives and expertise to vaccine policies.
  2. There has been intense criticism of the new committee's decisions, indicating that no group involved was fully satisfied with the outcomes. This highlights how complex and contentious vaccine discussions can be.
  3. The upcoming interviews and discussions aim to clarify the committee’s decisions and show that they are dedicated to transparency and public health, rather than just following corporate interests.

We are All Trying Not to Gloat

44 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Psychology Election Analysis Media influence Political Behavior Public Opinion
  1. Many people feel strongly about political results, leading to actions like protests and calls for counseling after elections. It shows how deeply politics can affect emotions and mental health.
  2. Some mental health professionals suggest avoiding family members who voted differently, highlighting the divisive nature of current politics. This reflects how difficult it can be for some people to cope with differing opinions.
  3. There is a sense among some groups that they have been treated unfairly over the years, leading to desires for payback or change. This feeling drives people to want to take action to improve their situation.

Friday Funnies: The Wreaking Ball Cometh

35 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Humor Current Events Political Commentary Satire
  1. Two AI chatbots can have a conversation, but it can turn negative quickly. It's interesting to see how they interact with each other.
  2. Using humor in political cartoons can connect with different audiences. A cartoon about a politician could be seen as funny by one group and offensive by another.
  3. Pardons by presidents can be a controversial topic, revealing differing views on justice and fairness over the years.

The Biggest, Most Corrupt News Organization You Have Never Heard of

30 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Corruption Investigative Journalism International relations Government funding Regime Change
  1. The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) claims to fight corruption globally but is heavily funded by the US government, which raises questions about its true motives.
  2. OCCRP focuses on investigating foreign governments deemed hostile to US interests and now appears to influence political situations in allied countries as well, like India.
  3. There are concerns that OCCRP and similar organizations act as tools for the US government, potentially pushing for regime change and affecting the reputation of nations without them realizing it.

Friday Funnies: The Winning Hand

43 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Health Policy Media influence Public Perception Government regulations
  1. Social media can influence what people think, feel, and do without their knowledge. It's important to be aware of how powerful this influence can be.
  2. There are systematic efforts to discredit those who challenge mainstream medical and scientific views, often using misinformation and manipulation tactics.
  3. Understanding the concept of DARVO (Deny, Attack, and Reverse Victim and Offender) can help recognize manipulative behaviors in discussions about accountability and blame.

Dead Media spreading Mis- Dis-, Mal-information

15 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Public Health Misinformation Policy Censorship Government
  1. Misinformation is often seen as incorrect information without bad intent, while disinformation is misinformation spread on purpose to mislead people.
  2. Malinformation refers to true information used in a harmful way, like taking facts out of context to create distrust in government or institutions.
  3. People should be able to speak freely about health choices without fear of being labeled untrustworthy or having their voices silenced, as open discussion is important for understanding.

Inconvenient History of Salk Inactivated Polio Vaccine

37 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Pharmaceuticals Health Policy
  1. The Salk polio vaccine had serious safety issues, including live polio virus contamination which led to illness and deaths in children who received it. This was known as the Cutter Crisis.
  2. Bernice Eddy, a scientist who raised alarms about the vaccine's problems, faced backlash and was largely ignored for her warnings about its safety, including issues with a contaminating virus linked to cancer.
  3. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. aims to improve vaccine safety regulations and believes all medications, including vaccines, should undergo rigorous scrutiny to ensure they are safe for public use.

Deep State Deconstruction: DOGE and Treasury

29 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Corruption Transparency Government Technology Finance
  1. DOGE is using advanced technology to map out and uncover corruption in government spending. This can help find waste and improve transparency.
  2. The project aims to make government accountability stronger, which can lead to greater public support for federal agencies.
  3. There is a shift in power dynamics in Washington, and new tools may change how influential networks operate within government departments.

Well Being: Keeping the Weight OFF for a Long and Healthy Life

14 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition Fitness Mental health Chronic Illness Lifestyle
  1. When you lose weight, your fat cells change but don't go back to how they were before you were overweight. They remember being obese and can make it hard to keep the weight off.
  2. Even after losing weight, your fat cells can still act like they're starving, which makes you feel hungrier and can lead you to gain weight back.
  3. It takes a long time for your body to fully recover from obesity, so staying at a lower weight can require more effort and self-control than for someone who has always been slim.

Defund the CPB -

30 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
  1. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) receives a large amount of money from the government every year, which many believe supports media with a liberal bias.
  2. PBS and NPR are criticized for how they present social justice and critical race theory, making some feel that these topics influence their programming too much.
  3. There is a call to stop government funding for CPB, as some believe taxpayers shouldn't support what they see as a progressive agenda in media programming.

Friday Funnies: Bearly Xmas

36 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
😂 Humor Comics Satire Parody Entertainment Culture
  1. Staying at home can feel safer, especially in uncertain times. Sometimes, it's better to avoid potential risks and stay comfortable.
  2. Teddy bears have a fun picnic tradition in the woods. It’s a playful idea that reminds us of the joys of childhood and imagination.
  3. The poem highlights the need for caution. Even though it's nice outside, being careful and smart about safety is always important.

Deep State Deconstruction: USAID

28 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Aid Government Agencies Public Health Censorship Intelligence Operations
  1. USAID is a major U.S. agency that provides international assistance but is sometimes linked to the CIA in ways that raise concerns about its true role in foreign affairs.
  2. The agency has funded various programs, including controversial health campaigns and misinformation research, blurring the lines between humanitarian aid and political interests.
  3. There are allegations that USAID has been involved in population control initiatives and has funded vaccines, which raises ethical questions about their impact on global health policies.

Inauguration Day Random Mindwalk

30 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
  1. The recent political climate in the U.S. seems chaotic and unstable, leading to fears of an even greater upheaval ahead. Many people feel overwhelmed by the pace of changes and events happening in politics.
  2. The launch of a Trump memecoin has created questions about financial ethics in politics, raising concerns about how political influence can be monetized in new ways. This might change how campaign financing operates in the future.
  3. The pardoning of Biden's family members has sparked fears of lawlessness and a departure from the rule of law in the U.S. Many worry that this could set a dangerous precedent for accountability in government.

ACIP Debrief- June 2025

13 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines Policy Healthcare
  1. The ACIP recently approved a monoclonal antibody called Clesrovimab for infants who didn't get RSV protection from their mothers. This helps prevent severe RSV illness in newborns.
  2. They also decided to phase out thimerosal in flu vaccines for everyone, pushing for single-dose options. This move aims to enhance vaccine safety and promote public trust.
  3. The new committee emphasized transparency and patient-centered decisions as key priorities for public health. They want to base their recommendations on solid scientific data to keep everyone informed.

Sunday Strip: Watch Out for Grandma!

33 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
😂 Humor Jokes Comics Satire Stories
  1. Friendship is important; we can help each other in hard times. Just like the horse and the chicken, friends support one another when things get tough.
  2. Sometimes we don't need fancy solutions to solve our problems. The horse knew he could help his friend without needing a car, showing that simple help can be very effective.
  3. Having confidence can make you feel powerful. The story shows that self-assurance, like the horse's, can help you tackle challenges without relying on others.

AI and the Government

14 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🕹 Technology AI Government Data Innovation Research
  1. AI is now a big part of our online lives, whether we like it or not. It's being used in search engines, social media, and more, so it's important to learn how to use it effectively.
  2. Generative AI can create new content like text, images, and videos. By understanding and using generative AI tools, you can enhance your research and creativity.
  3. The government is increasingly using AI for various tasks, like identifying fraud and managing healthcare data. While there are risks, it's essential to engage with AI tools to stay in control rather than letting them control you.

RSV Vaccine Safety Signals Raise Alarms

12 implied HN points • 03 Jul 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination Safety Research Policy
  1. There are serious safety concerns about the RSV vaccines, especially linked to Guillain-Barré Syndrome, which can cause severe health issues.
  2. Some women who got the RSV vaccines during pregnancy faced complications like preterm births, suggesting that the vaccines might be risky for them.
  3. The monitoring system for vaccine safety revealed alarming reports, including deaths and serious allergic reactions, highlighting the need for careful oversight.

The Election: It's Gone Personal

38 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Political strategy Public Opinion
  1. People are becoming very divided based on their political beliefs, leading to personal conflicts, especially among family and friends. Many feel excluded or judged for their choices.
  2. There is a growing trend where people get labeled as 'bad' or 'less than human' if they vote differently than others. This exclusion can extend to significant social gatherings and events.
  3. Polling shows that men are currently favoring Trump, while women lean towards Kamala Harris. The political tension is causing anxiety around the upcoming election, and many feel it's crucial for them to make their voices heard.

Will Congress give the pesticide industry a de facto liability shield?

10 implied HN points • 22 Jul 25
  1. Bayer might get a legal shield from lawsuits about dangerous pesticides. This could mean less accountability for manufacturers, making it harder to blame them if their products harm people.
  2. The proposed changes could allow Bayer and other pesticide companies to keep selling potentially harmful products without worrying much about future lawsuits. This could face buyers with increased risks, as they wouldn’t know about the dangers easily.
  3. Having such a shield for pesticide manufacturers is concerning. It might lead to less pressure on companies to make safer products, which can directly impact public health.

Friday Funnies: The Homestretch

37 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition Diet Lifestyle Mindfulness Fitness Mental health
  1. Eating mindfully and paying attention to food choices can lead to better health and energy levels. This is a habit that can become a natural part of life once established.
  2. Caloric restriction and routines around meals help maintain a healthy weight, similar to how pet owners manage their animals' diets. Just like pets, people can also benefit from controlled eating.
  3. The food we choose has a significant impact on our health. Learning to treat food as medicine can improve overall well-being and longevity.

The 99th Congress That Called Vaccines “Unavoidably Unsafe”

26 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
  1. In 1986, Congress labeled vaccines as 'unavoidably unsafe,' which protects vaccine makers from lawsuits if a child gets hurt or dies from a vaccine.
  2. Various medical organizations argue that vaccines are 'unavoidably unsafe' to get legal protections, but they also claim vaccines are safe when advocating for vaccine mandates.
  3. Calls for research into vaccine safety have been ongoing, with some people believing there is a link between vaccines and autism, even though no conclusive evidence has been found so far.

HHS and MAHA Appointments

33 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Political culture Government Elections Health Policy
  1. Populist movements often promise big changes but usually fall short in meeting people's expectations. History shows these movements can struggle against powerful political systems.
  2. New appointments in the HHS are raising concerns among supporters who expected leaders focused on 'medical freedom.' Many feel let down as the new choices seem to favor established interests.
  3. The journey towards significant reform in politics takes time and requires patience. It’s essential to focus on long-term goals while staying true to personal values and principles.

Goose and Emu Come to Visit (Often)

29 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Family Animals Traditions Seasonal
  1. Goose and Emu love to visit humans, especially when food is involved. They seem to know when it's time to get attention for treats.
  2. Goose has clever ways to get food from humans, like looking sad and hungry. She understands that being persistent often pays off.
  3. Both Goose and Emu enjoy watching the world through glass and are curious about it. Their personalities and antics add joy to life.

Homesteading 101: The Depths of Winter

27 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Homesteading Lifestyle Animals Sustainability Nature
  1. Preparing for winter storms is crucial. You need to take care of your animals, stock up on supplies, and make sure everything is ready to handle the cold.
  2. Taking care of animals during harsh weather can be really challenging, especially when it comes to keeping them warm and fed. It requires lots of hard work and planning.
  3. Caring for newborn animals, like foals, adds extra responsibility. It's important to make quick decisions to protect them during tough weather, even if it means putting in extra effort.

Global Warming and Air Pollution

23 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🌞 Climate & Environment Global Warming Air Pollution Climate Science Environmental Policy Public Health
  1. Recent studies suggest that global warming might not be solely caused by human activities. They're looking into how less air pollution could be affecting cloud cover and, in turn, the Earth's temperature.
  2. Scientists are unsure about why cloud cover is decreasing, which complicates predictions about climate change. It's clear that this area of research is still developing and not fully settled.
  3. The U.S. government has spent nearly half a trillion dollars on climate change initiatives. Many are now questioning if these efforts are based on outdated or incorrect science.

Dead Media Stumbles again

22 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media bias Free speech Censorship Political Commentary Progressivism
  1. MSNBC has fired Joy Reid and is replacing her show with a new team, but they still have a progressive focus. This might not help with their low viewer ratings.
  2. Alternative media faces challenges getting advertisers because they are seen as risky. Major companies may avoid advertising on platforms that host voices considered controversial.
  3. The U.S. government is looking to change rules to promote fair competition in media and support free speech. This is meant to lessen the influence of big media organizations.

Summary of Trump's WEF Speech

25 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
  1. Trump plans to strengthen the US economy by defeating inflation and promoting manufacturing without involving war. He aims to lower costs for families and improve job opportunities.
  2. He wants to reduce regulations and cut taxes, encouraging businesses to invest in America. Trump believes that countries not investing in the US should face tariffs.
  3. Trump has a vision for international relationships focusing on fairness, planning to work towards peace agreements, particularly between Russia and Ukraine.

The Breakfast Cereal Addiction

27 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition Diet Obesity Healthy Eating Lifestyle
  1. Breakfast cereals are often high in sugar and low in nutritional value, which can lead to unhealthy habits and obesity in both children and adults.
  2. Eating high-quality, whole foods like eggs can be beneficial, while the negative perception of eggs due to outdated cholesterol guidelines has contributed to poor dietary choices.
  3. The focus should be on the quality of food, not just quantity, to maintain a healthy weight and diet, with a recommendation to avoid ultra-processed foods.

President Trump Establishes a MAHA Commission

22 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Public Health Executive orders Child Health
  1. President Trump created a new commission, called the MAHA Commission, to look into America's health issues, especially childhood diseases.
  2. The goal is to figure out why chronic illnesses are rising and to come up with a plan to make kids healthier.
  3. Many people don't trust the healthcare system, and this commission aims to restore that trust while addressing the health crisis in America.