Disaffected Newsletter

Disaffected Newsletter explores societal, cultural, and political issues through the lens of personal trauma and abnormal psychology. It discusses manipulation in relationships, the impact of family dynamics, toxic femininity, immigration, political loyalties, modern taboos, and societal divides, offering critiques of contemporary norms and policies.

Societal Divides Cultural Critiques Family Dynamics Politics and Leadership Mental Health Gender and Identity Immigration Media and Public Perception

The hottest Substack posts of Disaffected Newsletter

And their main takeaways

Domestic abuse at scale

2477 implied HN points • 03 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Psychology Social Behavior Public Discourse Civic Responsibility
  1. Domestic abuse often involves manipulation where the abuser takes advantage of the victim. This idea is compared to how governments and media influence and control people's beliefs and actions.
  2. People can internalize harmful beliefs, thinking they should give up their own needs for others. This is similar to children feeling they are to blame for their parent's anger.
  3. Many believe it's wrong to defend their interests, even if it harms them. This mindset can lead to voting against one's own best interests and accepting unfair treatment.

Tired of trash? Try new Wokespy!

1358 implied HN points • 31 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Critique Political Commentary Culture Wars Satire
  1. Wokespy.com provides daily short articles that poke fun at 'woke' culture. It's a light-hearted way to stay informed about current events.
  2. The content includes both written pieces and short videos, making it accessible in different formats.
  3. The site aims to share humorous takes on social issues, often highlighting bizarre or ridiculous stories in the news.

Yes, fellow gays, it's partly our fault

2497 implied HN points • 02 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture LGBTQ+ Issues Social Commentary Public Perception Identity politics Mental health
  1. Some gay individuals are denying their role in the current social issues. They blame others for the public perception of homosexuality instead of looking at their own actions.
  2. There are concerns about the sexual behaviors being displayed in public spaces that are influencing people's views on the gay community. Some friends are pulling away because they feel criticized for sharing their concerns.
  3. The behaviors that have become associated with the gay community, such as breaking social boundaries, have been ongoing for a long time. This has created an environment where other groups feel able to push boundaries too.

Big Tech's AI shock troops came for us

1278 implied HN points • 31 Jul 24
🕹 Technology AI Big Tech Media Freelancing
  1. Big Tech is using AI significantly, impacting jobs in various sectors. Many workers, including freelance writers, are losing their jobs because of AI advancements.
  2. The rise of AI poses challenges for those in industries reliant on human creativity and labor. It raises questions about the future of work as more tasks get automated.
  3. There are concerns about the influence of Big Tech, especially regarding political leanings and job security for workers in media and similar fields. The landscape is changing, and many feel it's not in their favor.

Stolen Youth at Sarah Lawrence

999 implied HN points • 06 Aug 24
🚌 Education School System Pedagogy Cultural Studies
  1. A documentary called 'Stolen Youth' explores how a toxic adult created a harmful cult at Sarah Lawrence College.
  2. The college's approach to education is criticized for promoting extreme ideologies, which some believe contributed to the cult's formation.
  3. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the effects of educational philosophies on students' lives.
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Canceled AGAIN

1218 implied HN points • 28 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cancel Culture Media influence Conservative Politics Political Commentary Current Events
  1. Digital cancellation is affecting jobs in the news industry, especially for conservative voices. Many writers have lost their jobs due to this trend.
  2. The government and media are working hard to change public perception of unpopular leaders. They are trying to convince people to like the vice president, despite her low approval ratings.
  3. There is increasing tension and vandalism related to political protests, with some groups targeting historical monuments and individuals in provocative ways.

Mental Bric-a-Brac

839 implied HN points • 08 Aug 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Healthcare Customer Service Mental health Wellbeing Community
  1. Good customer service should be recognized and praised, just like bad service is often complained about. It's important to share positive experiences.
  2. A personal connection with service staff can make a big difference, like when a pharmacist helps save money on medications and explains the options available.
  3. Observing changes in other countries can evoke a sense of concern and hope for their future. There's often a personal connection felt even from afar.

Misunderstanding Trump Voters

4436 implied HN points • 27 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voter Behavior Political Identity Political Commentary Public Discourse
  1. Not all Trump voters are fans of his personality; some vote for him despite it. They have serious concerns about the current political climate and feel voting for Trump is their best option.
  2. There are former Democrats who now support Trump because they believe the Democratic agenda is harmful to the country. They’re not swayed by Trump's style but by the policies they disagree with.
  3. Critics like McWhorter may misjudge Trump voters by thinking they are blindly loyal. There's a call for a deeper understanding of their motivations beyond just Trump's persona.

Derealization for a whole hour

779 implied HN points • 05 Aug 24
🎙 Podcasts Mental health Society Culture Media Education
  1. Many people are feeling derealization, which makes them question if the world around them is real. This can happen even to those who are usually stable.
  2. A therapist is discussing what she's seeing in clients regarding derealization and offers advice for those worried about their mental state.
  3. There's a concerning situation in Vermont where the state's Supreme Court allowed schools to give vaccines to children without parents' consent, showing a troubling trend.

This Green and Pleasant Land

579 implied HN points • 12 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Current Events Censorship Gender Politics
  1. In the UK, people are facing legal troubles for what they think and say online. Authorities are treating certain posts as thought crimes, which many find alarming.
  2. There seems to be a growing conflict between men and women, with each side feeling misunderstood and oppressed. Some women feel like men are not facing enough consequences for their actions.
  3. The episode covers various topics including humorous takes on current events and social issues, showcasing a mix of satire and commentary.

My view on Trump

4076 implied HN points • 03 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Opinion Political Leadership Political parties Elections Social Issues
  1. Donald Trump is a narcissist, but the author believes he's less dangerous than many think. He sees Trump as more like a child who needs flattery and doesn't have tyrannical ambitions.
  2. The author views many politicians, including other presidential candidates, as narcissists too. He thinks Trump's boldness makes him stand out, but not necessarily in a unique way.
  3. Despite his concerns about Trump, the author sees him as the better choice compared to Biden. He believes that Biden's actions have caused more harm, leading him to support Trump strategically as the lesser of two evils.

To spoil the child

2417 implied HN points • 20 May 24
🎭️ Culture Child development Education Writing Skills Social Dynamics
  1. Many young people today lack the skills and maturity that previous generations had. This isn't entirely their fault, but it affects how they see themselves.
  2. Young generations often feel more knowledgeable and morally superior, but this can lead to them not accepting constructive criticism. They need to understand that feedback is meant to help them grow.
  3. There's a need for young people to recognize and correct their own incompetencies. Accepting help from older generations could help them develop into more capable adults.

You can save your teeth with this one ordinary trick

2118 implied HN points • 29 May 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Preventive Care Lifestyle
  1. Flossing is super important for keeping your teeth healthy. It's even more crucial than brushing because it gets rid of the stuff stuck between your teeth and below the gumline.
  2. Ignoring gum disease can lead to serious health issues and changes in your appearance. Losing teeth not only affects your smile but also your facial structure over time.
  3. Regular dental cleanings and procedures like deep root scaling can really improve your gum health. If you take care of your gums now, you can avoid bigger problems and keep your smile for life.

The show is over, say goodbye

4316 implied HN points • 21 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Music Celebrity Performance Psychology Social Commentary
  1. Madonna's recent performance highlighted her struggle with aging and the desire to cling to her past fame, which some people found sad and awkward.
  2. The concert's production quality was disappointing, with issues like poor sound and lip-syncing, leaving many fans feeling cheated.
  3. The author's views on Madonna shifted over time, reflecting a broader change in attitudes towards celebrity culture and its impacts on personal growth.

It's 1986 and here's what we're doing

2058 implied HN points • 24 May 24
🎭️ Culture Nostalgia Childhood Music Lifestyle Society
  1. The story is about two kids in 1986 having fun on their BMX bikes and enjoying their freedom. They go on little adventures like buying candy and riding around their neighborhood.
  2. They have a paper route and deliver newspapers, encountering different neighbors along the way. This includes a nice lady who gives them a kitten, showing the importance of community.
  3. They love music and often hang out at a record store. They enjoy playing records at home and watching movies together, making the most of their childhood.

The best of America

1079 implied HN points • 04 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Music Art Literature Tradition Community
  1. A song can capture deep feelings of home and nostalgia, even if it's not officially patriotic.
  2. Personal memories tied to music can evoke strong emotions and comforting moments.
  3. The power of music often brings back memories of loved ones and shared experiences, making it special.

What's wrong with Pride

899 implied HN points • 12 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture LGBTQ+ Social Issues Identity politics Cultural critique
  1. Pride started as a movement for legal rights, but it also involved a lot of partying and wild behavior among gay men.
  2. The gay community naturally had a mix of ideas that made it vulnerable to more extreme views from trans and queer groups.
  3. The changes in the Pride movement weren't forced from the outside; they were expected developments within the community.

Musical Interlude: Live to Tell

839 implied HN points • 13 Jul 24
🎶 Music Pop Performances Artists Emotional
  1. Madonna's emotional ballads show her true feelings, especially in 'Live to Tell'. It's a standout piece that showcases her talent beyond her public persona.
  2. The song holds personal significance, echoing themes of trauma and understanding that resonate with many listeners.
  3. Alternative performances of 'Live to Tell', especially those by Patrick Leonard and during Madonna's later concerts, bring a new depth to the song that enhances its impact.

Stochastic Terror

779 implied HN points • 15 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Violence Society Gender
  1. The media can influence public perception and actions, which has been evident in political events, including attempts on leaders' lives. It's important to be aware of how narratives are shaped.
  2. Society often overlooks the reality of women's violence, which can lead to misunderstandings about abusive behaviors, even when they are clearly happening.
  3. There are diverse topics discussed in the media that range from serious issues to light-hearted humor, showcasing varied perspectives and cultural commentary.

Happy mother's day

2018 implied HN points • 12 May 24
🎭️ Culture Parenting Celebrations Roles Family Life
  1. Motherhood is a vital and challenging job that deserves recognition and respect.
  2. All mothers work hard, regardless of their economic status or outside employment.
  3. It's important for mothers to enjoy quality time with their families on Mother's Day.

Prelude no. 1 in C major---music you should know by name

1099 implied HN points • 22 Jun 24
🎶 Music Classical Composition Theory Instruments Performances
  1. Bach's Prelude no. 1 in C Major is a beautiful and well-known piece of music that many people recognize, even if they don't know its name.
  2. The piece is part of a collection called the Well-Tempered Clavier, which showcases different musical keys and tuning systems.
  3. You can hear similarities between Bach's Prelude and the song 'Don't Cry for Me Argentina', showing how classical music influences modern songs.

The Bric-a-Brac

899 implied HN points • 01 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legal issues Social Issues Political Commentary Media Critique Cultural Commentary
  1. The idea of 'standing' means someone has to be affected by an issue to bring it to court. But in everyday life, anyone can talk about any issue, even if they aren't directly affected.
  2. When people start to realize uncomfortable truths, like those on the left feeling shocked, it may take time for them to process it. They might struggle to accept what they've known deep down.
  3. It's okay to feel close to your community without needing to feel afraid. Trusting your friends and being open about your feelings is important.

Kielbasa, Victorian houses, cursed names

1139 implied HN points • 15 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Arts History Identity Society Tradition Humor
  1. Life is more luxurious than we often realize, even in simple things like heating up food. Someone else handles all the hard work for us.
  2. The emotional reaction to political figures can feel feminine, expressing a deep fear and vulnerability. It's interesting to think about how these feelings affect people's views.
  3. Modern queer culture seems to have lost some of its wit and charm, replaced by a more superficial version. There's a longing for the character and humor of the past.

Truth Leaks Out

779 implied HN points • 08 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Narcissism Feminism Media Critique Psychology
  1. Dementia can show hidden sides of a person's personality, like how Joe Biden's ego comes through in interviews after debates.
  2. Some argue that feminism ignores basic human instincts, claiming feelings like maternal instinct are just a result of societal pressure.
  3. Covert narcissism is trickier to spot than the usual, loud types. It's important to learn how to notice it before it causes harm.

Ode to the slattern

1758 implied HN points • 14 May 24
🎭️ Culture Identity Gender Literature Media Psychology
  1. The slattern is a unique character type in stories, often portrayed as messy and chaotic but intriguing. Many people are drawn to these flawed characters because they are relatable and fun to explore.
  2. Growing up with a complex relationship with one’s mother can shape how individuals view and mimic female figures in media. This dynamic can lead to a stronger connection with the 'bad women' archetype in pop culture.
  3. Emulating these characters can feel empowering, even if there is awareness of their flaws. Playing around with the slattern persona can be a playful way to explore one's childhood experiences and relationships.

"If a white person said that"

2557 implied HN points • 08 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Racism Feminism Identity politics Media Critique
  1. Some people say harsh things about white people that wouldn't be acceptable if said about others. This creates a double standard in society.
  2. Many white people agree with negative views about themselves, thinking it will make them seem better to others.
  3. The idea that white people hold all the power in society is outdated, and it's important to address current attitudes that accept harmful statements against them.

Queensbury Rules: Episode 181

559 implied HN points • 22 Jul 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Culture Social Issues Entertainment Discussion
  1. The show discusses the topic of cancel culture and invites listener comments. It's important to share your thoughts on it.
  2. The host wants to know what people think about cancel culture, showing engagement with the audience’s opinions.
  3. The newsletter is reader-supported, encouraging subscriptions to help continue the discussion and content.

The Weekly Bric-a-Brac

979 implied HN points • 22 Jun 24
  1. Young people today struggle with basic skills like navigating their own neighborhoods because they rely too much on phones and GPS. Many older people learned to find their way by memory and maps.
  2. Before modern technology, people handled getting lost by memorizing important phone numbers and making plans about where to meet. This way of living was normal before cell phones became common.
  3. There's a call for parents, especially fathers, to push back against overprotection in child-rearing to help kids become more independent. A balanced approach in parenting can help kids learn valuable life skills.

The VW

1119 implied HN points • 13 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Cars Nostalgia Personal Stories Memories Hobbies
  1. Classic cars, like the VW Beetle, hold a special place in people’s hearts because of their nostalgic memories and unique charm.
  2. Even though buying a classic car might not make financial sense, the desire for one can be very strong, often driven by personal history and fond memories.
  3. Connecting with local car enthusiasts and repair experts can enhance the experience of owning a classic car, making it a fun and engaging hobby.

A quickie from Her Maj

819 implied HN points • 29 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Humor History Social Issues
  1. Mixing with different people can feel uncomfortable, but it's important to trust your home crew. Surrounding yourself with supportive people can make a difference.
  2. Being confident and embracing who you are is a key part of self-identity. It's good to recognize your strengths and abilities, no matter how others perceive you.
  3. Using humor and creativity can bring a fresh perspective to historical situations. A fun twist can make serious topics more relatable and engaging.

Everything is weird now

2238 implied HN points • 07 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Food Trends Dining Experience Social norms
  1. Many traditional restaurants are disappearing, replaced by upscale stores and unusual dining options. It's unsettling to see classic American diners vanish.
  2. New restaurants are offering odd combinations of food, like sushi and burgers, which feels confusing and strange. This blend doesn't always make sense or seem appealing.
  3. There's a trend of 'fusion' cuisine that mixes unrelated food styles just for creativity's sake, but it often lacks genuine flavor or identity. It's like they're trying too hard to be different.

'That's just a conspiracy theory'

2338 implied HN points • 28 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conspiracy Theories Political Identity Media Criticism Mental health Activism
  1. It's common to dismiss conspiracy theories out of fear and emotional investment in our beliefs. This can make people react angrily when others challenge those ideas.
  2. Many people find that as they grow older, they start to question everything they thought they knew, including their political beliefs and the nature of truth.
  3. In today's world, it’s easy to feel uncertain and fearful due to the unpredictable nature of government actions, making it reasonable to consider alternative explanations for events instead of just accepting official narratives.

Psychological Pollution

2218 implied HN points • 02 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Public Space Human behavior Media influence
  1. Modern life is filled with constant noise from machines and devices, making it hard to find quiet moments. This noise can create stress and a sense of chaos in our minds.
  2. Advertisements and screens are everywhere, demanding our attention and creating visual clutter. This overload can make it tough to enjoy our surroundings.
  3. People seem to have lost a sense of public etiquette, leading to more distractions and rudeness in everyday interactions. This can leave us feeling frustrated in social settings.

Like fighting through molasses

1758 implied HN points • 25 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Legal rights Social media Cultural Issues
  1. People today often mix up their emotions with facts, making it hard to discuss important topics clearly. It's important to separate how we feel from what is actually true.
  2. When discussing free speech, some people feel the need to say they don't support hate to show they are 'good' people. This distracts from the main point about legal rights.
  3. Understanding the difference between emotions and facts can help maintain freedom of speech. Both sides of a discussion should focus on the facts, even if they disagree on feelings.

These dreams

1079 implied HN points • 03 Jun 24
📚 Literature Memoir Personal narrative Creative Writing Psychology Arts
  1. Some people's dreams can be really intense and dark, often reflecting unfinished business or unresolved fears from the past. They stick with you long after you wake up.
  2. Facing difficult or scary memories in dreams can be a way to process them and find some closure. It's like your mind is trying to help you deal with what happened.
  3. Even after changes in life, like therapy or distancing from harmful people, old dreams can resurface, but understanding them better can bring clarity and healing.

What should I do? What would you do?

1039 implied HN points • 04 Jun 24
📖 Philosophy Ethics Existentialism Human behavior Decision-making Self-help
  1. It's common for people to look to experts for answers to their problems, but often there isn't a clear right answer. Many issues are complicated and need thoughtful discussion rather than a simple solution.
  2. Conversations can help people clarify their thoughts and feelings about difficult situations. Talking through problems can lead to better decisions that fit their unique lives.
  3. While some coaches or consultants may not have formal training, they can still provide valuable support. They can help clients understand their problems better and explore possible outcomes.

Why I Despair

3397 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Political divide Public Health Mental health Cultural Commentary
  1. Many people have strong beliefs about issues like immigration and health that seem crazy or bigoted to others. This creates a deep divide with real consequences for individuals and communities.
  2. There's a feeling of despair because even reasonable objections to these beliefs are not recognized. People feel isolated and powerless when their concerns are dismissed.
  3. The writer reflects on their own past beliefs and recognizes that those on the other side are not inherently evil or stupid. Understanding this helps to cope with the despair about the current state of society.

Fauci Did It!

919 implied HN points • 09 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Cultural Issues Pandemic response Legal issues Social Commentary
  1. People are quick to blame others for problems, like Fauci being blamed for the pandemic. But regular folks also played a part by not standing up for what’s right.
  2. There's a concern that cultural relativism is messing up society. For example, a court case showed how cultural excuses can sway justice, which isn't fair.
  3. The conversation touches on various social issues, like reactions to Pride Month and how some people are mocked for their choices. It's about how different views clash in today's world.

Homosexuals: this is a turning point

4516 implied HN points • 16 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural critique Social Commentary Political Discourse Public Perception
  1. The recent incident in the Senate highlights a cultural decline that needs addressing. It's important to recognize that many people are rightly disgusted by it.
  2. Homosexuals should not react defensively but align with the broader public. Acknowledging shared values like decency and respect can help build connections.
  3. Our society is facing serious issues, and finding common ground with straights and conservatives can lead to a collective effort to restore order and sanity.