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

A Fun Path to Rejection

19 implied HN points • 09 Apr 21
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual art Painting Drawing Sculpture Mixed Media
  1. The author reflects on their art journey, feeling conflicted about their work and the art world's recognition.
  2. The author plans to paint over old artworks and submit them for an art exhibition, highlighting themes of futility and social commentary.
  3. The text presents a whimsical mix of storytelling, reflections, and nonsensical musings, showcasing a unique and creative writing style.

Tax Protest

19 implied HN points • 26 Mar 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Taxation Protest Government Military Policy
  1. Political ideologies of left and right are outdated and do not effectively address contemporary issues.
  2. There is a lack of awareness and action regarding the ban on nuclear weapons and the implications of funding for such weapons.
  3. The need for collective responsibility and individual liberty to address political issues, like federal tax protests and the funding of nuclear weapons.

Last Will and Testament and Strangely Lou Reed

19 implied HN points • 26 Feb 21
🎨 Art & Illustration Mixed Media Exhibition Legacy Painting Music
  1. Having a properly executed Last Will and Testament is crucial to ensure a smooth distribution of assets and avoid conflicts among family members after one's passing.
  2. Artists may struggle with self-confidence during life, but the legacy they leave behind can hold great emotional power and impact others long after they're gone.
  3. Music and poetry work together to evoke powerful emotions and serve as a reminder of our shared humanity and the poetic beauty in everyday life.
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Songwriting in Nowhere

19 implied HN points • 29 Jan 21
🎶 Music Songwriting Artists Creativity Lyrics Performing
  1. Writing what you know doesn't guarantee success in creative pursuits, as demonstrated by examples like Stephen King. People often prefer stories of magic and fantasy over reality.
  2. Creative expression in various forms like painting, sculpture, and music requires a deep connection to the subject matter, but success and financial reward aren't guaranteed.
  3. Songwriting is a personal and cathartic process, and it's essential to engage in it for personal fulfillment rather than for public performance or external validation.

Class Houses

19 implied HN points • 22 Jan 21
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Family Housing Self-reflection Art
  1. The author reflects on the concept of class and wealth, highlighting the contrast between different social classes and the impact on individuals' lives.
  2. Owning and maintaining a house can symbolize various aspects of life, from struggles and financial burdens to personal identity and the pursuit of a home filled with memories.
  3. Time is viewed as true wealth, emphasizing the importance of how individuals spend and value their time, regardless of social class or material possessions.

Happy New Year

19 implied HN points • 31 Dec 20
🎭️ Culture Art Politics Society History Personal Development
  1. Reflecting on past experiences and resolutions for the new year, the author aims to let go of moral superiority and performative behaviors, focusing on personal growth.
  2. The author discusses censorship encountered in a public library art exhibition and reflects on societal expectations of success and personal values.
  3. A personal anecdote highlights a moment of realization and self-acceptance, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself and not succumbing to societal pressures.

Merry Christmas

19 implied HN points • 18 Dec 20
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Humor History
  1. The author reflects on Christmas and the importance of celebrating with loved ones, even in challenging times like the pandemic.
  2. The text explores the historical context of literature, showcasing the author's journey in writing and the impact of early American literature on his own work.
  3. There is a satirical critique on consumerism during the holidays, specifically addressing the culture of buying new cars on Black Friday and the absurdity of the sales pitches.

This week let’s shop like nuts for nuclear disarmament!

19 implied HN points • 25 Nov 20
🌍 World Politics
  1. The post advocates for shopping with a purpose for nuclear disarmament on Black Friday.
  2. The author suggests redefining Black Friday to align with its name by supporting nuclear disarmament through shopping.
  3. Encouragement to subscribe for more updates and to participate in a holiday season with a meaningful impact.

The Pleasure at Being the Cause

1 HN point • 25 Jun 21
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Creativity
  1. Taking control of your health can lead to positive outcomes - like losing weight, being off medications, and feeling better.
  2. Engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment, like art and play, can enhance well-being and freedom.
  3. Choosing to participate in a gift economy and embracing freedom for its own sake can lead to a more fulfilling life.

The Oswego River School

0 implied HN points • 04 Dec 20
🎨 Art & Illustration Creativity Personal Development Reflection Parenting Life events
  1. Struggling with mediocrity and financial challenges as an artist can be a tough reality to confront.
  2. Popularity and success in different fields like music and entertainment don't always align with true talent or impact.
  3. Balancing personal passions with practical career choices can lead to conflicts and uncertainties, especially in the creative industry.

Please Get This To Glenn Greenwald. It’s the Year 2000. Facebook® and Twitter® do not exist, and I Have No Other Way of Contacting His Office.

0 implied HN points • 13 Jan 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Media Government Political Commentary Elections
  1. Glenn Greenwald is valued for his radical perspectives on U.S. government actions and war crimes.
  2. Glenn Greenwald has garnered a large following due to his work on government malfeasance and civil liberties, although he has faced criticism for becoming more of an influencer than a journalist.
  3. The post discusses the January 6 Capitol riot, the power of social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook, and challenges the idea of free speech protection in certain situations.

A Single Painting

0 implied HN points • 16 Jan 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Writing Books Publishing Creative
  1. The author discusses their experience with selling paintings and books, highlighting the challenges they faced in pricing and selling their work.
  2. The author shares their unique writing style and the variety of books they have published, showcasing their dedication to their craft despite financial struggles.
  3. The post emphasizes the author's unconventional approach to networking on LinkedIn and their willingness to create meaningful connections through humor and authenticity.

Recent Paintings and New Studio

0 implied HN points • 11 Dec 21
🎨 Art & Illustration Paintings Artists Artwork
  1. The artist talks about their new studio space and recent paintings, including the story of accepting the offer for a new studio and planning exhibitions.
  2. The artist shares a glimpse of new paintings created and introduces the concept of sharing space with other painters to reduce rent.
  3. The artist reflects on their new studio, mentioning its history and the plans for setting up their art space with reverence and functionality.

Gas Stories

0 implied HN points • 19 Feb 21
🌞 Climate & Environment Environmental Activism Renewable Energy Fossil fuels Climate Crisis Pollution
  1. Furnace trouble can be fixed temporarily, but it's important to address the underlying issue to avoid repetitive problems.
  2. The urgency to reduce carbon emissions is emphasized, pushing for significant lifestyle changes to combat global warming.
  3. Political decisions can have detrimental consequences, and it's crucial for individuals to advocate for environmental protection to prevent harmful practices like hydrofracking.

March in Like a Lion

0 implied HN points • 05 Mar 21
  1. The United States superpower is facing a breakdown in its structure and societal values, with issues stemming from historical events and propaganda manipulation.
  2. American society shows division and anger over shallow political issues, while crucial aspects like equality and basic human rights often go unnoticed or disregarded.
  3. US involvement in the Middle East, influenced by factors like oil and Israel, leads to devastating consequences like bombings and support for oppressive regimes, raising questions on accountability and ethics.

Naps

0 implied HN points • 30 Apr 21
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Lifestyle Self-care Personal Growth
  1. Taking naps can be a way to resist the societal pressure of constantly working and hustling.
  2. Reflecting on the concept of 'earning a living' and considering time spent as a form of 'useful' and 'useless' can lead to a different perspective on life.
  3. Choosing to spend a day living simply, without the need to earn a living, can bring a sense of tranquility and freedom.

Thinking Out Loud About Stuckism

0 implied HN points • 05 Feb 21
🎨 Art & Illustration Art Philosophy Painting Manifesto
  1. Stuckism is not just a modern art movement; it taps into timeless themes of creativity and self-expression.
  2. Stuckism values traditional painting and opposes the sterility of white-wall galleries.
  3. The Stuckist movement encourages artists to focus on their work and engage deeply with the process of creation.

Throop Pharmacy

0 implied HN points • 08 Jan 21
🏥 Health & Wellness Heart Health Medication Side Effects Treatment Options Mental health
  1. Taking medication for heart conditions can have various side effects, some possibly worsening the initial issue.
  2. The author questions the conventional medical approach to treating heart diseases, advocating for a more personalized and holistic approach.
  3. The text highlights the importance of individualized care from healthcare professionals rather than a one-size-fits-all treatment approach.

End of the Line

0 implied HN points • 20 Nov 20
📚 Literature Books Authors Publishing
  1. The post includes a free download link for the book 'End of the Line'
  2. The free download is a special extra for paid subscribers this week
  3. The post is specifically for paid subscribers, prompting them to sign in if they are already subscribers

This Friday: The Ancestors!

0 implied HN points • 17 Nov 20
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Lessons Humanity
  1. The event 'This Friday: The Ancestors!' aims to teach lessons from the past to save humanity.
  2. Ancestors are positioned as cool and capable of coming to the rescue.
  3. The post suggests that the upcoming event will involve some kind of ancestral intervention to benefit humanity.

More Songwriting In Nowhere

0 implied HN points • 12 Mar 21
🎶 Music Songwriting Lyrics Artists Albums
  1. Songwriting can be a valuable and rewarding practice that allows for creative expression and personal growth.
  2. Embrace the amateur mindset in creative endeavors, allowing room for experimentation and the freedom to fail without the pressure of perfection.
  3. Reflect on personal experiences and emotions as inspirations for songs, embracing simplicity and honesty in storytelling.

A Spring Without Mulch

0 implied HN points • 19 Mar 21
🎨 Art & Illustration Philosophy Nature COVID-19 Family History
  1. Art should strive to convey a meaningful message or provoke thought about important issues, rather than simply aiming to create pretty pictures for self-indulgence.
  2. During difficult times like the COVID-19 pandemic, finding inspiration from historical figures who faced adversity with positivity and humility can be powerful.
  3. Humility and a connection to nature can be essential in facing the challenges of the world, and in finding joy amidst hardships.

Two Weeks From 21 Years Ago

0 implied HN points • 29 Jan 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Sculpture Creative Writing Visual art Mixed Media
  1. The author reflects on the passing of time and the role of technology in society, highlighting the importance of soul-searching and staying true to one's art amidst modern distractions.
  2. The text delves into philosophical and existential themes such as the illusion of the 'whole' and the concept of individuality, urging readers to explore their own significance in the world.
  3. The narrative touches on personal struggles, artistic pursuits, and the complexities of human relationships, emphasizing the need for self-reflection and finding joy in everyday moments.

Guillotine Literature

0 implied HN points • 28 May 21
📚 Literature Fiction Literature
  1. The author created a controversial fictional work called _Monsieur Tourette Awakens in Mid-tic_ that criticizes society's obsession with doom and violence.
  2. The author questions societal norms and institutions like the medical profession, advocating for a critical approach and self-care as opposed to blind trust.
  3. The author reflects on the impact of knowledge, science, and historical figures like Erasmus, challenging the notion of blindly trusting authority and emphasizing individual critical thinking.

9 Religious Paintings

0 implied HN points • 20 Aug 21
🎨 Art & Illustration Paintings Poetry Emotions Philosophy
  1. The author shares nine religious paintings they have created, each with a unique story and inspiration.
  2. The author reflects on personal experiences and philosophical insights that have influenced their creative process.
  3. The text concludes with a lengthy poem that delves into themes of life, death, and artistic expression.

Three Books from Another Time

0 implied HN points • 17 Oct 21
📚 Literature Poetry Parenting
  1. Discovering the joy of reading changed the author's life trajectory, leading to a pursuit of literature and self-expression through writing and painting.
  2. The author learned to embrace self-publishing and the democratization of free expression, avoiding the pressures of traditional publishing.
  3. Reflecting on love, family, and creativity, the author emphasizes the importance of personal growth, supporting children, and finding wonder in everyday moments.

Time To Kick the Mes in the Knees

0 implied HN points • 15 Dec 21
📚 Literature Writing Authors Fiction Creativity
  1. Genius grants can provide financial rewards, but recipients like Junot Diaz face challenges in balancing their creative work with existing obligations like teaching.
  2. There is a critique on the system of awarding grants, questioning if the selection truly supports groundbreaking creativity or merely reinforces existing cultural norms.
  3. The narrative discusses the complexities of balancing creative pursuits with the demands of modern life and the impact of prioritizing individual success over collective well-being.

Homeschooling Rē·ĕń·ŭn

0 implied HN points • 11 Mar 22
📚 Literature Short Stories Creative Writing Authorship Fantasy Fiction
  1. The author shares a very busy Friday itinerary with tasks like writing a grant, painting, planning meals, and band practice, showcasing a variety of activities encompassing work, family, creativity, and relaxation.
  2. A story is shared, blending elements of fiction, contemplation, and imagination around themes of apples, roast duck, and a man named John Lindsey, adding an element of mystery and creativity to the narrative.
  3. The post concludes with a menu description for a Y2K New Year's Eve meal, including dishes like roasted duck, field greens, lemon vinaigrette, mashed potatoes, and dessert items such as Key lime pie and lemon-maple cake, offering a glimpse into a festive culinary experience.

War Criminal and a Few Other Phrases and Euphemisms “To Die For”

0 implied HN points • 29 Mar 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government International relations Military Policy Taxes
  1. One way war criminals are referred to as 'a person who has carried out an act during a war that violates accepted international rules of war'.
  2. Using euphemisms like 'To Die For' can sometimes reflect on wanting something but being confronted with harsh realities instead.
  3. Actions of governments and nations can portray them as 'good guys' when they claim to be morally correct, but the truth may be far from it.

Teach the Gifted Children

0 implied HN points • 11 Dec 20
  1. Recognize the impact of Covid-19 on society, leading to a reevaluation of lifestyles and highlighting the undervaluation of teachers.
  2. Reflect on the flaws in the education system and the societal norms that have led to a disconnection from nature and loved ones.
  3. Advocate for a reform in education to promote critical thinking, sustainability, and a more thoughtful approach to teaching sensitive subjects like sex education.

I’m For Sale

0 implied HN points • 30 Apr 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual art Paintings
  1. The author shares about their internal struggles with art and life, expressing the desire for recognition and significance.
  2. The author reflects on the concept of change, acknowledging the inevitability of life's transformations.
  3. The author humorously mentions selling their artwork and being open to unconventional forms of exchange, like crypto or pot plants.

Steemit Until Valentine’s Day

0 implied HN points • 22 Jan 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Social media Blockchain Paintings Community
  1. Consider trying out Steemit for a new social media hobby and potential to earn crypto through activities like posting and commenting.
  2. Powering up on Steemit can increase your influence and the value of your blog, helping you potentially earn.
  3. The author found Steemit to be a more genuine platform than traditional social media, where creativity is valued and rewarded.

A Repeat Read To Contemplate

0 implied HN points • 26 Nov 21
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Tradition
  1. The author shares a video and links to a previous post about False Consensus to encourage contemplation on Black Friday.
  2. The author expresses a desire to create a tradition around discussing environmental threats like urgent human-made dangers to life on Earth.
  3. The post emphasizes the importance of internal and external sanity and reflection.

Black Friday

0 implied HN points • 26 Nov 21
🌍 World Politics War Nuclear Weapons Conflict Global Issues International relations
  1. Black Friday refers to the day after Thanksgiving, known for shopping deals and promotions.
  2. The text delves into themes of nuclear disarmament, highlighting the threat of nuclear weapons and the consequences of warfare.
  3. The story of Little Oko and her family portrays a satirical yet thought-provoking scenario of a war based on humor and laughter, showcasing the absurdity and tragedy of conflict.

The Future Looks Bright

0 implied HN points • 18 May 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual art Paintings Artworks
  1. The post discusses the concept of humanity being too everywhere, filled with self-loathing and narcissism.
  2. The author creates and sells art pieces as simpler creatures that symbolize a future beyond human complexities.
  3. The writing contemplates on the idea that life will continue even after human influences cease, highlighting the persistence of life on Earth.

11 Favorite Loose Canvas Paintings This Fall

0 implied HN points • 20 Dec 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Paintings Gallery Art market
  1. The post shares 11 favorite loose canvas paintings for Fall, showcasing various artworks with unique titles and dimensions.
  2. The artist hints at increasing prices, suggesting investing in the artworks while they are still affordable.
  3. The post concludes with a humorous touch and a tease for an upcoming Christmas message from an unbeliever.

28.5 Hours of Painting

0 implied HN points • 12 Feb 21
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Pricing Creative work
  1. Artists often struggle with financial insecurity and lack of recognition, residing in an economic limbo without traditional jobs or career paths.
  2. Art pricing is subjective and influenced by factors like celebrity status and ubiquity, leading to a wide range of prices for artwork.
  3. Establishing a fair pricing model based on artist's wages, material costs, and a unique element 'X' can provide transparency and consistency in the art market.