The False Consensus Effect

The False Consensus Effect Substack explores a wide range of topics from personal reflections on art, life, and relationships to critiques of society, politics, and the art industry. Themes include the impact of propaganda, the process of creating art, living minimally, and questioning societal norms and structures.

Art and Creativity Personal Reflections Societal Critique Politics and Governance Minimalism and Lifestyle Health and Wellness Technology and Digital Art History and Heritage

The hottest Substack posts of The False Consensus Effect

And their main takeaways

Hashtag Genocide

118 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Genocide Government Propaganda Journalism Human Rights
  1. The author expresses concerns about genocide happening and feels the need to speak out about it even if others are silent.
  2. The post discusses how various entities like Joe Biden, Congress, the Supreme Court, and the Joint Chiefs of Staff are seen as complicit in genocide.
  3. It highlights the impact of fear and 20-30 years of corporate media propaganda on society's ability to recognize and address genocide.

Resolve Now It’s Working

78 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Paintings Creative Process Inspiration Imagination Art exhibition
  1. The author shares personal reflections on their art, daily routines, and anti-government sentiments. This includes details on their creative process, struggles, and aspirations.
  2. The post emphasizes the power of imagination and the importance of taking action towards one's ideals. The author encourages readers to make a difference, even in small ways.
  3. Financial accountability and planning are highlighted, with the author detailing expenses, savings goals, and reflections on contemporary societal issues. Rose, the author's partner, also plays a role in household finances.

Six Weeks Into Poverty

39 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
📖 Philosophy Poverty Government Action Protest
  1. Living in poverty challenges the norms and calls for embracing hardship to break free from society's expectations.
  2. Questioning the definition of poverty in the context of governmental thresholds and the need for societal reforms like universal healthcare.
  3. Exploring the idea of indirect action against corrupt government policies by advocating for living in poverty as a form of rebellion.

January $921.49

39 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
  1. Living below the poverty line can be a fulfilling and empowering experience.
  2. Financial sacrifice can lead to a sense of empowerment and expanded potential.
  3. Choosing financial frugality can empower individuals to make a stand against supporting actions they morally disagree with.

$269 This Week Playing Against Empire

59 implied HN points • 07 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Art Social Issues Economics Politics Activism
  1. The author aims to live frugally under $300/week to resist governmental control and societal pressures.
  2. Encourages others, especially the youth, to follow a similar path of minimalistic living and contributions to charity.
  3. The author criticizes the current economic structure and lifestyle standards in the U.S., advocating for a simpler, more community-oriented way of life.
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Going Broke and Getting Rich

59 implied HN points • 31 Dec 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Creativity Social Commentary Poetry Visual art
  1. The author plans to maintain expenses below the U.S. poverty level for a year, challenging themselves to make under $399 profit, showcasing a unique thought/action experiment.
  2. There is a focus on living frugally and embracing a minimalistic lifestyle as a form of protest against government systems and societal norms.
  3. The author emphasizes the importance of stories and rare artifacts as valuable remnants of past resistance and cultural significance.

The Happiest Sad Man Alive

39 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Artistic expression Personal reflections
  1. Creative poverty can lead to a sense of freedom and contentment, sparking new perspectives and heightened joy in everyday life.
  2. Expressing oneself through art can be a powerful way to feel deeply and connect with others, enriching both the giver and the recipient.
  3. Embracing simplicity and reducing consumption can bring about a renewed outlook on life, with fresh eyes to appreciate the ordinary and find joy in the mundane.

Divorcing for Liberty Sanity

59 implied HN points • 12 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Poverty Ethics Activism Income
  1. The author suggests embracing voluntary poverty as a way to protest against governments and their harmful actions.
  2. Poverty can be a creative way to navigate life, leading to self-sufficiency and alternate sources of income.
  3. Living below the poverty line is proposed as a form of resistance against contributing to unethical government actions and military spending.

Stories from the Yules of My Life

39 implied HN points • 24 Dec 23
📚 Literature Fiction Art & Illustration Health & Wellness Philosophy History
  1. The author shares fictional Christmas card messages and stories, reflecting on past memories and personal experiences.
  2. The author delves into genealogy and discusses the Scottish Earls, emphasizing the complexity and potential of family histories.
  3. The author shares a detailed, introspective piece on self-reflection, writing, and the pursuit of creativity despite challenges and societal norms.

Week #2 Friday Stuckism Mini-exhibition

59 implied HN points • 05 Nov 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual art Exhibition Artist Paintings Creativity
  1. Week #2 of the Friday Stuckist Mini-Exhibition included various artworks and a gathering of people for a 25th-anniversary celebration.
  2. The exhibition featured a diverse selection of paintings and artwork created by different individuals.
  3. The event had a lively atmosphere with drinks, food, and interactions among visitors, fostering a sense of community and creativity.

Bringing Back Friday Exhibitions

78 implied HN points • 25 Sep 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Exhibitions Paintings Artists Creative Process Art Community
  1. The author is planning to host Friday exhibitions at their home, showcasing their work and welcoming visitors to enjoy art and music.
  2. They express frustration with societal issues like lack of fresh food and proper shelter, presenting a critical view of American consumerism.
  3. The post delves into personal reflections on art, life, and the desire for a simpler, more meaningful existence.

Lovin’ Oppenheimer Sex Cheeks

98 implied HN points • 13 Aug 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Paintings Art history
  1. The post discusses a movie experience with steamy pretend sex scenes, historical references, and a deep dive into nuclear weapon politics.
  2. It delves into a perspective on the split evolution of humanity into apathetic Eloi and the sadder-but-wiser Morlocks, based on attitudes towards nuclear weapons.
  3. The narrative reveals insights about Oppenheimer, exposing aspects of his historical context, involvement in wartime dynamics, and influence on art teaching during military efforts.

Mister Oxymoron Meet Academia Artists

78 implied HN points • 10 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Art & Illustration Literature Education
  1. Art professors are often not considered true artists by the Stuckism Manifesto, emphasizing the distinction between being an artist and working in academia.
  2. The text critiques the financial rewards and status associated with grants and professorships in the creative field, challenging the conventional understanding of 'genius'.
  3. There is a call for reform in the art education system to prioritize individual creativity and community benefit over financial gain and academic bureaucracy.

Roundtrip Vietnam

59 implied HN points • 16 Sep 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Art Criticism Paintings
  1. The artist received feedback from an art critic and professor, providing insights on different paintings.
  2. The artist's painting of an American flag was perceived as abstract commentary on American society and economics.
  3. Sharing art can evoke varied reactions - from admiration to finding paintings scary or thought-provoking.

Stuckism Silver Anniversary

59 implied HN points • 03 Sep 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting
  1. Stuckism is an international art movement that values authenticity and individual expression over commercial success.
  2. Engagement with the process of painting is considered success for a Stuckist, rather than seeking recognition or monetary gains.
  3. Stuckism encourages artists to explore their neurosis and innocence through creating and displaying paintings, enriching society with shared experiences and individual expressions.

Thoughts of Freedom, Ireland and Friday Stuckism

39 implied HN points • 23 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Global Governance Human Rights Activism
  1. Winning the war on propaganda is possible with a billion eyes watching and sharing information, leading to a shift in power.
  2. The author questions the current U.S. government system, highlighting the financial burden of taxes and the desire for a more peaceful defense budget like Ireland's.
  3. The trip to Ireland was eye-opening, showcasing a country where the people have a strong voice in government decisions and stand up for justice.

Only in Hell Can the Dow Ever Climb

39 implied HN points • 10 Oct 23
💰 Finance Economy Investing Stock Market Wealth Retirement
  1. The author discusses the complexities of wealth, power, and inequalities tied to investment portfolios, questioning the morality behind profiting from people's suffering
  2. A critical view is presented on the impact of financial markets, politicians, and media propagating a system that prioritizes profit over social justice
  3. The importance of reflecting on societal values, advocating for equity, and challenging the status quo of wealth accumulation and economic structures

Inarticulate Speech of the Art

78 implied HN points • 12 Mar 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Abstract Critique
  1. The author reflects on creating abstract paintings and the process of overcoming ego and accepting criticism in art.
  2. The importance of being open to feedback and evolving in one's artistic journey.
  3. Artistic expression can be a personal journey of growth and self-discovery.

One in a Trillion

78 implied HN points • 11 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Art Philosophy Literature Music Health & Wellness
  1. The importance of focusing on nature and solitude to find balance amidst the overwhelming people-centric world.
  2. Questioning traditional spiritual and societal constructs, like the role of influential figures such as the Dalai Lama, and advocating for a more personal and family-centric approach to compassion and wisdom.
  3. Reflecting on the challenges of modern life, materialism, and the need to prioritize mindful living and genuine connections while navigating societal expectations.

From the River to the Sea, the Choctaw Will Be Free

19 implied HN points • 20 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict Human Rights Government Foreign Policy Political corruption
  1. American political system is corrupted by foreign influence through funding and lobbying, disenfranchising the population.
  2. The concept of freedom and democracy is compromised by government corruption and corporate power.
  3. Critically examining religious and political ideologies is crucial to understanding and challenging oppressive structures.

Stuckism in the House

19 implied HN points • 11 Nov 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Exhibition Artwork Artist
  1. Stuckism emphasizes the importance of displaying art and having meaningful discussions about it, rather than focusing on social media validation.
  2. The concept urges artists to question providing free content for tech billionaires and to paint with unique, thought-provoking ideas.
  3. The goal is to nurture emotional growth by moving away from vanity metrics of likes and hearts, and towards genuine engagement and connection through physical art exhibitions.

Advocating Success Failure

19 implied HN points • 29 Oct 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Gallery Exhibition Sculpture
  1. The author identifies as an Advocate personality based on the Myers-Briggs assessment, focusing on personal fulfillment, helping others, and meaningful relationships.
  2. The author believes in pseudoscience and its potential for good, citing examples like Newtonian physics enabling air travel.
  3. The author plans to host weekly mini-exhibitions to engage with art and create a space for sharing creativity with friends, emphasizing the importance of creating and connecting.

Finishing Up Painting This Way Because I Got a Grant to Paint That Way

59 implied HN points • 05 Mar 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Abstract Acrylic Grants
  1. The artist received a grant to create a series of large abstract paintings by a specific deadline, leading to a shift in their current painting style.
  2. The artist is planning to explore new painting techniques inspired by past painters and faces the challenge of painting something invisible to them but visible to others.
  3. The post includes images of various paintings created by the artist, showcasing different styles, sizes, and mediums used in their work.

I Think I Can Learn How to Feel to Keep Going

59 implied HN points • 07 Dec 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Acrylic Canvas Music Dreams
  1. The author shares their struggle and determination to keep pushing forward in their art despite challenges and self-doubt.
  2. The images showcased in the post are examples of the author's acrylic paintings, reflecting their continuous practice and passion for art.
  3. The author's artistic journey is likened to a process of filtering 'thick human lake mud' to create something clear, empty, and perhaps even innocent.

Morning Birdsong Calls Ryokan Off the Shelf

39 implied HN points • 02 Apr 23
📖 Philosophy Existence Wisdom Connection
  1. Enjoy the beauty of nature and reflect on the impact of human activities on the environment, like the pollution of the Great Lakes.
  2. Question the pursuit of traditional success and the sacrifices made for material wealth and security, prompting a reflection on the true meaning of a fulfilling life.
  3. Advocate for simpler, more communal living, where the focus is on sharing, connection, and playing together for a happier existence.

Dead Write

39 implied HN points • 29 Mar 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual art Painting Artistic Process
  1. Humans have shifted from materialism to abstractionism, leading to a disregard for material objects and a focus on abstract ideas
  2. There is a call to reset to a time before the plastic age and embrace a lifestyle that values material and spiritual benefits over abstractionism
  3. The solution proposed involves embracing boredom, increasing waste, and disconnecting from the bubble of modern life to find contentment in simplicity and nature

May Day

39 implied HN points • 01 May 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Artists Poetry Creativity Philosophy
  1. The author reflects on personal struggles, like health issues and temptations to drink, while creating art on cardboard.
  2. The text criticizes the disparity in wages between different professions and suggests that teachers and healthcare workers should be paid more.
  3. The author contemplates escaping to a place where they can be supported financially for their art, questioning the pursuit of money and the American way of life.

Market Me

39 implied HN points • 23 Mar 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual art Art market
  1. The author is offering a deal where anyone can sell their art to friends at a price they set, taking a percentage of the profit.
  2. The author criticizes traditional art galleries and encourages readers to take art sales into their own hands.
  3. The author emphasizes the importance of keeping art alive and bypassing the influence of millionaires in the art market.

After Funeral Luncheons

39 implied HN points • 17 Apr 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting History Culture Travel Society
  1. The author expresses a desire to escape a society they perceive as sick and exhausting, seeking a simpler life in a tranquil village to focus on art and history.
  2. They outline a plan to move to Sutton-cum-Lound, the ancestral home, offering to work as an artist and historian for room and board, expressing gratitude and commitment to the village.
  3. The author aims to trade the complexities of modern life for a quieter existence, willing to contribute their skills and embrace a slower pace in exchange for support from the community.

The Pouch Should Make a Comeback

39 implied HN points • 04 Feb 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Drawing
  1. The author reflects on the concept of working for free in different stages of life, from childhood to adulthood, and its impact on financial security.
  2. The author shares personal experiences regarding Social Security benefits and financial struggles, highlighting the importance of support from loved ones.
  3. The post features various free paintings created by the author, showcasing their art and creativity in the face of financial challenges.

The Merlin Residency and Cloud Hidden, Whereabouts Who Cares?

78 implied HN points • 02 Jul 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Residency Painting Creativity Artists Gallery
  1. The author reflects on the idea of professional artistic residencies and the freedom found in creating without the pressure of external judgment.
  2. The author expresses a desire to escape the societal demands and norms, yearning for a simpler, more authentic existence to create and live by their own terms.
  3. The author plans to disconnect from social media, prioritize personal creative pursuits, and embrace a quieter, more intentional lifestyle away from the noise of constant online updates.

January

39 implied HN points • 07 Jan 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Paintings Acrylic Canvas
  1. The post showcases various acrylic paintings by the artist, including 'My Mother's Toothache' and 'Not Indian,' giving a glimpse into their recent work.
  2. The artist's writing in the post is expressive and introspective, sharing personal thoughts on social media detachment and artistic processes.
  3. There is an invitation to dance and embrace freedom in the artist's message, encouraging self-expression and self-discovery.

Crowd Sourcing a Path Not Really

39 implied HN points • 04 Dec 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Creativity Entrepreneurship Life choices Dreams
  1. The author reflects on the challenges and temptations of going into business, balancing personal passions with financial pressures.
  2. The text discusses the idea of finding a balance between pursuing dreams, like owning a restaurant, and maintaining a sense of joy and fulfillment.
  3. There is an exploration of the impact of business on personal relationships and the potential loss of creativity and freedom when solely driven by profit.

Super Moon Straw Quiet

19 implied HN points • 03 Jul 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Paintings Acrylic Oil Canvas
  1. The author reflects on feeling quiet and observant during a super moon, choosing to not engage in writing or talking but rather embracing silent observance.
  2. The author mentions experiencing overwhelming positive sensations lately, becoming more sensitive and quiet, which has been a new and ongoing shift in their bodymind.
  3. The post shares various quiet paintings by the author, showcasing their artistic expression while exploring themes of quiet and observance.

Todavía en España

59 implied HN points • 20 Jun 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Paintings Photography Creativity Anarchism Travel
  1. The author reflects on their experience of being stranded in Spain due to COVID and expresses frustration with the government's handling of the situation.
  2. The author shares personal thoughts on anarchism and their disillusionment with nations, declaring themselves an "underground citizen of earth."
  3. The author discusses the power of creativity and freedom, highlighting the importance of art in resisting imprisonment and expressing individuality.

A Valentine Gush

78 implied HN points • 14 Feb 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Poetry Painting Love Music Video
  1. The author reflects on their relationship with their partner and the love that has grown over time.
  2. The post includes personal elements like songs and a love letter from the past, showcasing the depth of their connection.
  3. There's a theme of enduring love and appreciation for their partner, demonstrated through art and memories shared in the post.