Demodexio

Demodexio delves into diverse literature to innovate democratic ideas, exploring constitutional amendments, decentralization, communist economic models, dictatorship dynamics, US foreign policy, and the Soviet economy. It challenges traditional governance, advocating for pragmatic communism, democracy's practicality, and examining authoritarianism while considering the roles of entrepreneurship and national security in global politics.

Constitutional Law Decentralization Communism Dictatorships US Foreign Policy Soviet Economy Democracy Authoritarianism National Security Economic Sustainability

The hottest Substack posts of Demodexio

And their main takeaways

The Hearts of Men: American Dreams and the Flight from Commitment, part 4 of 8

0 implied HN points • 26 Oct 21
  1. Considering what a healthy person is adjusted to can provide insights into their environment and relationships.
  2. Peak experiences in life, whether sexual or spiritual, can shape our identity and open paths for a more engaging lifestyle.
  3. The evolution of psychology from maturity to growth suggests that everyone has potential for growth and self-actualization.

After the Fall: Being American in the World We’ve Made

0 implied HN points • 22 Oct 21
  1. Reflection on the disillusionment of American democracy post-Obama era and rise of authoritarianism globally
  2. Critique of America's flawed self-image and history, urging a realistic assessment and collective action
  3. Hope expressed for American self-determination to steer the country towards a better future despite current challenges

Book Review: On Tyranny

0 implied HN points • 19 Jun 21
  1. Fascism is a threat to America and democratic norms globally.
  2. Timothy Snyder's 'On Tyranny' offers actionable steps for resisting tyranny, like making eye contact and reading books.
  3. Snyder warns against dangerous tactics used by leaders, emphasizes the importance of truth, and urges vigilance in protecting democracy.

Jack Welch regretted his choice of successor

0 implied HN points • 04 Dec 22
  1. Jack Welch regretted his choice of successor.
  2. Techniques can help us make the right choice despite charm.
  3. In leadership positions, it's important to ask deep questions to see past charm and evasion.

There is one correct way to amend a Constitution, part 1 of 2

0 implied HN points • 03 Nov 21
  1. A Constitution should be amended by two majority votes separated by some years to prevent authoritarian takeovers.
  2. Hungary's easy process for changing its Constitution led to an authoritarian government under Fidesz.
  3. In the USA, the difficulty in amending the Constitution led to the Supreme Court becoming essentially the committee for amendments, risking erosion of constitutional government.
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The Hearts of Men: American Dreams and the Flight from Commitment, part 6 of 8

0 implied HN points • 28 Oct 21
  1. Homosexuality transitioned from being considered a potential aspect of all men to a specific condition for some individuals.
  2. Gay liberation movement liberated both straight and gay people by redefining identities and providing greater freedom to define oneself.
  3. Although progress has been made in accepting homosexuality, economic challenges like rising rent hinder true sexual freedom and exploration of personal identity.

An Ordinary Person’s Guide to Empire, part 2, final part

0 implied HN points • 10 Oct 21
  1. Repressive measures exacerbate problems rather than solve them.
  2. Ignoring prosecution of criminals can lead to them holding significant power.
  3. Fairness in law enforcement is crucial to prevent further social unfairness.

Elon Musk and the rule of law

0 implied HN points • 08 Dec 22
  1. The law must be enforced by individuals powerful enough to hold powerful individuals accountable
  2. Some libertarians and fascists fight against restrictions on wealthy individuals like Elon Musk, undermining the rule of law
  3. To ensure the rule of law applies to everyone, government officials must have the power to enforce laws against powerful figures like Elon Musk

The Hearts of Men: American Dreams and the Flight from Commitment, part 8 of 8

0 implied HN points • 31 Oct 21
  1. In American antifeminism, there's a link between distrust of men and hatred of feminists.
  2. The opposition to the Equal Rights Amendment in the 1970s was led by wealthy women concerned about losing the right to be supported by husbands.
  3. Reactive politics might not always be effective, and they may bring unintended consequences.

The Hearts of Men: American Dreams and the Flight from Commitment, part 5 of 8

0 implied HN points • 27 Oct 21
  1. Therapy should address real life practical issues like paying rent, not just childhood trauma
  2. The balance of power in society affects individuals, with government and corporations tending to consolidate power without opposition
  3. Life is inherently political and fighting for rights is crucial for human liberation

The Hearts of Men: American Dreams and the Flight from Commitment, part 3 of 8

0 implied HN points • 25 Oct 21
  1. Simplistic views of masculinity have been around for a century, supported by influential organizations.
  2. Admiration comes from handling big responsibilities voluntarily, not forced societal expectations.
  3. In the 20th century, there was a shift in ideals for men, influenced by the rise of affluence and changing societal norms.

The Hearts of Men: American Dreams and the Flight from Commitment, part 1 of 8

0 implied HN points • 23 Oct 21
  1. Historically, women's roles and importance in society have shifted due to the spread of the monetary economy and wage work.
  2. The increase in divorce rates and children born out of wedlock has led to societal changes in how children are financially supported.
  3. There has been a shift in cultural expectations regarding marriage, with men no longer burdened by the automatic expectation of marriage and breadwinning.

How much power does Putin have?

0 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Power Dynamics Authoritarianism Geopolitics Revolution Dictatorship
  1. Western commentators have differing views on Putin's rationality and power, suggesting his hold on power may be weak.
  2. Putin's actions, such as the invasion of Ukraine, reflect his concern about maintaining popularity and power.
  3. Putin's reliance on performances and manipulation of public opinion hint at potential weaknesses and fears about losing power.

Progressives continue to sabotage themselves with inaccurate ideas about how democracy works

0 implied HN points • 16 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Progressives Political Science Political parties Reforms
  1. Populist theories of democracy have led to damaging reforms and should be reconsidered for progressive change.
  2. Progressives need to study political science and organizational theory for effective political movements.
  3. Building large organizations with efficient bureaucracy is crucial for progressive success in politics.

Why does proportional representation in Parliament fail?

0 implied HN points • 27 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics Parliament Coalitions Political parties Democracy
  1. Proportional representation often fails to offer voters choices that match their preferences.
  2. Some countries with proportional representation struggle with limited party options and fragmented political landscapes.
  3. Strong political parties are crucial for a healthy democracy, but exploring voting systems that allow more diversity could be beneficial.

The end of decorum in politics

0 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Republican party Political Behavior
  1. The new populism in politics has assisted Republicans in maintaining power by promoting crassness and violating established decorum.
  2. The change in culture towards crassness and aggression traces back in small ways to the 1980s and became more pronounced with politicians like Rush Limbaugh and Newt Gingrich.
  3. The shift towards populism post-2008, exemplified by movements like the Tea Party, has led to increased aggression and disrespect in politics, harming societal norms and decency.

The Hearts of Men: American Dreams and the Flight from Commitment, part 2 of 8

0 implied HN points • 24 Oct 21
  1. Misogyny in ancient texts influences modern world views, but modern culture is not entirely a story of liberation.
  2. Toxic masculinity is a topic of discussion on platforms like Twitter, with differing opinions on its nature.
  3. Historically, there was pressure for men to conform to a specific image of maturity tied to societal roles, leading to harmful stereotypes and discrimination.

A new era of American greatness is dawning

0 implied HN points • 21 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics International Geopolitics Global Economy Leadership Diplomacy
  1. The USA is currently experiencing a period of rapid growth compared to other developed nations.
  2. America's historical success can be attributed to factors like military conquest, expanding the monetary economy, and governance structures.
  3. Questions remain about the impact of immigration, debt, and women's empowerment on the future prosperity of the USA.

Communism: the God that failed? Or shall this God yet succeed?

0 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Communism History Ideologies Social movements Revolution
  1. Communism has a history of challenging ruling elites and creating division between East and West in Europe.
  2. There are similarities between the rise of Communism and Protestantism in terms of charismatic leaders and rejection of norms.
  3. The future of Communism might involve a more profound re-thinking of societal assumptions, challenging traditional beliefs about sexuality and identity.