Freddie deBoer $5 / month

Freddie deBoer's Substack explores social and political issues with emphasis on nuance, including discussions on 'woke' culture, criminal justice reform, the complexities of love and personal behavior, and critiques of higher education and mental healthcare systems. The author advocates for pragmatism, compassion, and understanding across various topics.

Social and Political Commentary Criminal Justice Reform Cultural Critique Education and Affirmative Action Mental Healthcare Personal Behavior and Relationships LGBTQ+ Rights

The hottest Substack posts of Freddie deBoer

And their main takeaways

Political Messaging is Ambient Now

4053 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25

People often act like they aren’t worried about crime when they actually are. It’s common for those living in cities to downplay serious issues just to seem cool or part of a group.
Social media shapes political views more than traditional media. The constant chatter and performance online can distort real issues, making them seem less important.
Ignoring public concern about crime can hurt political strategies. If political parties can't control the narrative, it leaves them exposed to misunderstandings and backlash.

I Am Begging Sports Media to Stop Misusing Regression to the Mean

1856 implied HN points • 03 Jul 25

🎾 Sports Football Analytics Media Statistics Performance

Regression to the mean means that extreme results are unlikely to happen again without some change in conditions. If a team's situation changes, it’s not just luck but a new factor affecting performance.
Using regression to the mean incorrectly can lead to confusion. If someone thinks a team will do worse because they lost players, that’s not regression to the mean; it’s a different kind of prediction.
There’s a risk of making mistakes by assuming past results will always influence future ones, like betting based on past game outcomes. Each situation should be treated by its own conditions.

Writing Today: The Essay, 2010s v 2020

5012 implied HN points • 30 Jun 25

📚 Literature Essays Writing Culture Personal narrative Critique Trends

The style of writing essays has shifted from being very personal and confessional in the 2010s to more detached and ironic in the 2020s. Writers now tend to observe rather than engage deeply with their own experiences.
There is a noticeable change in subject matter, with 2010s essays focusing heavily on identity and personal trauma, while 2020s essays are leaning towards broader themes of crisis and societal issues, often presenting them in a more abstract way.
The structure of essays is evolving too. Today, essays are often more fragmented and modular, reflecting a sense of uncertainty, as writers explore ideas without the need for traditional narratives or conclusions.

So is Everybody Giving Up On, Like... Doing Things?

12314 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Art Writing Social media

Many people are relying too much on technology, like AI, to do their creative work instead of enjoying the process themselves. It's important to find joy in what you do.
There's a culture that values quick and easy ways to make money, like side hustles, instead of appreciating hard work and effort. Real hustling is about putting in the effort to achieve something.
Some people seem confused about the true meaning of 'hustle.' They might think 'hustling' is just about finding shortcuts, but it's really about working hard and being dedicated.

When No One Can Take an L, Or the Upside of Enclave Politics

3527 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Social movements Civil Rights Political strategy Political culture

Enclave politics is when people with similar beliefs stick together to feel safe and accepted. This helps them find community but can prevent them from making real change in the wider world.
Being in an enclave makes people more aware of their positions and challenges, which can sometimes lead to a sense of powerlessness. However, it also encourages honest discussions about politics and reality.
While extreme views can come from staying in these enclaves, being too disconnected from public sentiment can lead to ineffective activism. It's important to balance holding strong values with understanding the current political climate.

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No, I Mean It - AI Maximalists in the Media Should Really, Actually Take the Shitting-in-the-Yard Challenge

7642 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25

🕹 Technology Media influence Skepticism

AI hype often overlooks past technology that didn't live up to expectations. Just like with the Human Genome Project, people thought AI would massively change our lives, but things are more complicated.
There's a difference between being scared of AI and simply being skeptical of its impact. Many people automatically assume AI will change everything, but it's important to listen to those who think the effects might be smaller.
Media often ignores voices that question the hype around AI. Instead of only showcasing the promises of AI, there's a need to give more attention to skeptics and their views.

No, Actually, James Frey Can Stay Fucked

10457 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25

📚 Literature Creative Writing Memoir Narrative Nonfiction Book Publishing Mental Illness

James Frey's past fabrications in memoir writing highlight the importance of honesty in storytelling. Many people prefer genuine experiences over sensationalized lies.
Writing about mental illness truthfully can be tough. It often doesn’t follow a dramatic or exciting narrative, which can make it less marketable.
Choosing integrity over potential fame or financial gain can be a hard decision for writers. Staying true to oneself is more important than chasing trends or big advances.

Here's a Perfect Example of Why Matt Yglesias Should Debate Me

7116 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Debate Morality Protests Political strategy Critique

Critics often challenge prominent figures to engage in debates, which can help them address different perspectives. Debates allow for a more dynamic exchange of ideas, rather than just responding to fans or supporters.
When discussing protests, it's important to recognize the moral motivations behind people's actions. Not waving the American flag at certain protests can stem from a refusal to endorse the government's actions.
Simplifying political discussions by avoiding moral considerations can lead to a disconnect with the everyday concerns of people. Engaging with moral arguments is crucial in understanding why people feel strongly about specific issues.

I Hate 28 Days Later for Killing Off Supernatural Zombies

3743 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Film Media Literature Entertainment Critique

The movie '28 Days Later' changed zombies from slow, traditional creatures to fast, scary ones. This shift makes the horror feel more immediate and intense.
Most modern zombie stories now explain zombies as a result of a virus, moving away from the idea of supernatural resurrection. Many people miss the spooky appeal of classic, magic-based zombies.
Fast zombie stories often focus on finding cures and dealing with infections, which can make the plot feel less about true zombie horror and more like a medical crisis. Fans of classic zombies argue that supernatural elements add depth and charm.

AI Hype and the Tech Slowdown are Symmetrical

4053 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25

🕹 Technology AI Innovation Economy Business Automation

AI is overhyped and won't bring the big changes people expect. It may bring some negative effects, but the impact will be much smaller than past technology like the internet or electricity.
The tech industry is facing a slowdown, similar to how the automotive and finance sectors have gone through ups and downs. Companies are struggling to find exciting new products.
Smartphones are now common and are not seeing much new development. Most new models are just incremental upgrades, making it hard for companies to stand out and grow.

Prepare for the Era of the Shy NIMBY

2011 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Housing policy Local Governance Political Movements Homeownership Urban Development

NIMBYs, or 'Not In My Backyard' people, often get less media attention than YIMBYs, who support building more homes. This can make it hard for their concerns about housing and community rights to be heard.
Many people quietly hold NIMBY views but don’t speak up due to social pressure. This could be similar to the shy Trump voters — they might vote for policies that protect their interests even if they don't openly discuss it.
To make progress on housing issues, it's important to find common ground with NIMBYs. Understanding their worries can help foster cooperation and lead to better solutions for everyone.

Heads Up

19337 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25

The mom and baby are healthy, but there are some complications. The doctors decided to keep mom in the hospital for safety until the baby is born.
They are excited for the baby but also a bit sad about the time left in pregnancy. Mom is feeling torn between wanting the baby out and missing the pregnancy experience.
There might be changes in the writing schedule during this time. The writer plans to keep everyone updated and will take some time off after the baby arrives.

Here's Your Kanye West Cliff Notes

17079 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25

🎭️ Culture Music Mental health Disability Identity Media

Kanye West has claimed he's not bipolar but autistic, stirring up a lot of conversation. This shows how he sometimes tackles personal issues in surprising ways.
People are becoming less sympathetic toward Kanye as he shows more unstable behavior online. Critics are more focused on his actions rather than considering if his mental health influences them.
There is a strange disconnect around how society views mental illness. Critics want to blame Kanye but feel conflicted about viewing him as a person influenced by his disability.

Miranda July's Lucrative Fantasies

14077 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25

🎭️ Culture Literature Media Feminism Romance Identity

Fantasies about life can often lead to disappointments. It's important to stay realistic about what to expect in a new place or lifestyle, rather than getting lost in idealized visions.
The idea of 'having it all' is unrealistic for anyone, not just women. Life comes with limitations, and people need to be aware of the challenges involved in balancing career and family.
Romantic ideals, like long-term relationships, provide genuine support and connection in life. Pursuing endless novelty may not lead to the happiness people expect, as the excitement can fade quickly.

I Told You: Chaos is Coming

17481 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25

🎭️ Culture Violence Ideology Society Philosophy Psychology

People are feeling lost and disconnected in today's world, which can lead to dangerous behaviors like violence. This sense of emptiness makes some look for meaning in extreme actions.
Many young people are struggling to find real meaning in life, and they might turn to historic ideologies that feel hollow or even joke-like. They want something to hold on to, but everything feels lightweight.
The solution may lie in connection and community. If people can reach out and support each other, there might be hope for a better future, but this is not an easy path.

We Have to Take Some Kind of an L on Immigration, For Now

15191 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Public Sentiment Legal Framework

Many people want to move to rich countries for better lives, but there's a huge political and social challenge in doing so. The existing government systems are often unprepared for large waves of immigrants.
It's important to talk about immigration in a realistic way. Simply saying everyone has a right to move doesn't consider how it affects both the immigrants and the countries they're leaving.
There's a need for more legal ways for people to immigrate, but public sentiment often leans towards more restrictions. It's essential to listen to those concerns while finding a balanced solution.

Perhaps You Would Be a Little Touchy Too

16429 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25

🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Disability Psychiatry Therapy Identity politics

Bipolar disorder is often misunderstood, with many thinking mood swings happen quickly, but the truth is they usually take weeks or months. It's important to really understand how the disorder works.
People are increasingly claiming new and unusual diagnoses for mental health issues, which can undermine the seriousness of established conditions. This shift creates confusion and can affect how we view our own experiences.
Claiming a diagnosis can feel liberating for some, but it can also lead to challenges when others misrepresent these conditions. It's tough when what you know to be true about your own illness feels threatened.

As a Big Fan of Immigration, I Recognize the Utility of Assimilation

13706 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Cultural Identity Language Social Issues

Assimilation can help immigrants succeed in their new country by learning the language and culture. It makes it easier for them to find jobs and fit into their communities.
Language skills are important in everyday jobs, especially for customer service roles. Customers expect to understand workers, and clear communication helps everyone involved.
While celebrating diversity is important, it’s also necessary to recognize that moving to a new country often requires some level of adjustment. Immigrants may need support to adapt successfully.

The Indoor Plumbing Test

14170 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25

🕹 Technology AI Inventions Hype Human Impact

AI is being hyped as a revolutionary technology, but its real-world impact is limited compared to basic necessities like indoor plumbing. We often overlook how essential and transformative improvements in basic infrastructure have been.
Many claims about AI's incredible benefits are overstated. In reality, AI does small tasks that people can already do themselves, which raises questions about its actual social importance.
The ongoing hype around AI seems to come from a deep desire for a breakthrough technology that can change our lives. However, life is likely to remain mostly the same, with more focus needed on real improvements in areas like medicine.

Maybe This is Why You Shouldn't Have Published the Andrew Huberman Story

16120 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Gender Issues Public Opinion Investigative Reporting Cultural criticism

The Andrew Huberman story did not include serious allegations like those in the Neil Gaiman story. It focused on infidelity and tardiness instead of misconduct.
The way the Huberman story was presented created misunderstandings, leading many to think it was a MeToo story. The excitement around it suggested serious accusations were involved.
It's important for journalism to clearly differentiate between bad behavior and harmful misconduct. Mixing them can dilute the serious conversation around issues like sexual assault.

Kendrick Lamar: Talented Musician, Provocative Figure, Emperor of the Whites

10612 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25

🎭️ Culture Music Art Social Commentary Pop culture Identity politics

Kendrick Lamar has achieved great success and is highly praised, but his status as an 'underdog' feels ironic given his fame and accolades. It shows how people love to label even the most successful artists as outsiders.
The way people view music is changing; taste is now tied to moral values and public opinions. It's hard for individuals to just enjoy music without it being linked to their identity or politics.
Many white people embrace Kendrick Lamar's art to appear morally good, which can overshadow the true appreciation of his talent. This dynamic is complex and reflects a broader issue in how we celebrate Black artists.

If Paul Krugman Didn't Have Enough Juice at the New York Times, Who Could?

9560 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Criticism Journalism Public Opinion

Heavy editing can take away a writer's unique voice. It's important for writers to maintain their style even when being edited.
Big organizations may see their employees as replaceable, which can affect morale and creativity. This can lead to a competition where everyone fears losing their job.
The pressures of being in an elite institution can change how content is produced. Writers may face strict guidelines that limit creative freedom.

Our Healthcare System, a Reign of Terror

18038 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24

🏥 Health Politics Healthcare system Mental health Social justice Policy Critique Inequality

Many people only react strongly to certain types of suffering and fail to recognize the ongoing harm of our healthcare system. It's important to think about why we care more about some victims than others.
Our healthcare system often denies essential care to those who need it, leading to tragic outcomes. The choices made by companies and policymakers directly affect people's lives and deaths.
There's a disconnect in how society views death caused by healthcare versus murder. We need to acknowledge and address the systemic issues causing suffering in our healthcare system, rather than just express sympathy for individual cases.

Losing Medicaid, Winning the Grammys

10643 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Pop culture Media Critique

Pop culture should not be the main focus of political understanding. People often look at politics through the lens of pop culture, making it less serious.
Coping mechanisms can be unhelpful in facing real-world issues. It's important to confront the harsh realities instead of hiding in entertainment.
Media often mixes celebrity news with political significance, distracting from crucial societal problems. This creates a false sense of activism instead of addressing actual political challenges.

Who "Neurodiversity" Left Behind

15655 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24

🎭️ Culture Disability Rights Activism Mental health Social Issues Public Discourse

The voices of people living with severe disabilities are often overlooked in public discussions about neurodiversity. This can leave families feeling isolated and unheard.
Autism discourse has shifted to focus on individuals who thrive, while those who struggle daily are sidelined. It's important to acknowledge the challenges faced by many with severe autism.
A diverse conversation about autism is needed, including all levels of ability and experiences. Everyone, regardless of their background, should have a say in these important discussions.

Doing This Again Makes Me Hate Myself and Hate You, But Yes, Something Happened to Liberalism in the 2010s, and Sometimes That Thing is Called "Woke"

8168 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Liberalism Trends Change Ideology Identity

American liberalism changed a lot during the 2010s. People who consider themselves liberals in 2020 are not the same as those from 2010.
Some people deny that these changes happened, which seems dishonest. It's clear that the ideas and focus of liberalism evolved, especially around issues like race and gender.
Despite personal opinions on whether these changes were good or bad, it's strange to argue that liberalism has always been the same when the evidence of change is so obvious.

After Liberal Cultural Hegemony

10365 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25

🎭️ Culture Social Issues Liberalism Censorship Art Critique American Politics

Many people got really upset about certain books in the past, often without reading them, which made it hard for authors. This created a strange situation where publishers would listen to loud complaints instead of just letting books be published.
Right now, there's a bit of a backlash against that intense focus on social justice, but the effects of that period are still lingering in society. Some people are still trying to cancel things they don’t like, and that behavior continues in various forms.
The way liberals approach politics often revolves around judgment and pointing out failures, which some see as limiting. There’s a question of what kind of politics will emerge in the future and if it will be different from how things have been.

All the Little Unborn Babies

17141 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Abortion rights Healthcare Reproductive Rights Public Policy

IVF involves many ups and downs, including the high likelihood of miscarriages, which can lead to a lot of anxiety for parents. The process makes individuals very aware of the fragility of early pregnancy.
Miscarriage is common and often goes unnoticed, but it is a significant loss for would-be parents. Many people feel guilt or blame themselves even though it's often just part of nature.
Understanding the realities of pregnancy and loss can change perspectives on abortion. The chaos of nature shows that life doesn't always happen the way we plan or want it to.

Being Ghosted by the New York Times

13861 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Political Commentary

Freelancers often face a lack of communication from big publications like The New York Times. When they pitch ideas, they expect a simple 'no' if the piece isn't wanted, but many times they don’t receive any response at all.
There's a sense of casual disrespect in the industry, especially from larger publications. Many freelancers and even some employees feel underappreciated and mistreated, which can create a toxic work environment.
Despite the frustrations, freelancers still want to write for well-known outlets like The New York Times because of the exposure and audience they can reach. It’s important for these big publications to treat writers with respect to foster better relationships.

Our Product is Permission

12407 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24

🎭️ Culture Media Social Trends Parenting

Many people today often make excuses for their choices, believing life is too hard to do what's right instead of what's easy. This mindset can lead to unhealthy habits and a lack of personal accountability.
There has been a cultural shift where values like authenticity, artistic integrity, and genuine relationships are being overshadowed by the pursuit of fame and comfort. It’s important to continually challenge ourselves and be open to growth.
The rise of social media has allowed people to embrace slouching standards in lifestyle and behavior, leading to a rejection of former norms like dressing well or valuing hard work. It's crucial to recognize the impact of these changes on our culture.

Judith Butler with a Pretty Damn Good Indictment of Identity Politics!

12623 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Identity politics Election Analysis Political critique Social justice

The election results suggest that identity politics didn't cost Democrats the vote. Voters were more concerned about issues like the economy and immigration.
People get frustrated when they're talked down to, and this negativity can hurt political movements. It's important to engage people without making them feel judged.
Criticism of identity politics isn't just from the right; many thinkers on the left have also raised valid concerns. There's a need for honest reflection on how these ideas have shaped recent political events.

Very Weird Ideas About What It Means to Respect Someone's Political Project

5754 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice Identity politics Political theory Activism Cultural Commentary

The term 'woke' often means caring about other people, but some feel this definition flattens complex ideas about social justice. It can sound condescending when simplified.
Many people work hard to understand and advocate for social justice, and their efforts deserve more respect than just being labeled as 'nice.'
Using praise that oversimplifies someone's political values can be frustrating for those deeply invested in their beliefs, making it feel dismissive rather than supportive.

Announcing The Mind Reels, and Why Only You Can Make It a Success

5909 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25

📚 Literature Fiction Publishing Writing Books Reviews

The author is excited to announce their new book, 'The Mind Reels', which is about a college student facing mental struggles. They feel proud of the work and appreciate the chance to publish it.
For the book to succeed, the author emphasizes the importance of grassroots support from readers since mainstream media may not cover it fairly. They hope that readers will help spread the word and support independent publishing.
There’s a chance for subscribers to win an advanced copy of the book in a giveaway, encouraging readers to engage and participate in the launch excitement.

"Wouldn't It Be Cool If..." Science is a Scourge and We Will Regret It

9344 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25

🔬 Science Quantum physics Scientific Method AI Research Education

There are tons of resources to learn about science today, but a lot of popular science content can be misleading and full of hype. It's important to be careful about what you believe, especially if you don't have a strong background in the subject.
Many claims in science media, like the existence of alternate dimensions or warp drives, often lack strong evidence. It’s crucial to approach such claims with skepticism rather than taking them at face value.
Real scientific work is usually slow and methodical, rather than exciting breakthroughs. Making science seem too flashy might mislead younger people about what a career in science really involves.

welp

14851 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Parties Political theory Voting Rights Campaign Strategy

People are frustrated with the Democrats because they can't form a strong winning team. This makes it hard to have a good opposition party against the Republicans.
Losing elections isn't just about blaming certain individuals or outside forces. It’s important for the party to look at its own problems and fix them.
Even when things seem bad for the Democrats, there’s always hope for improvement. It’s essential to understand what’s wrong and work on solutions.

Big Mommy is Not Coming to Save Us

15408 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Behavior Media influence Party Dynamics Political Ideology

People like Donald Trump, and no amount of media criticism seems to hurt his popularity. Many voters support him despite knowing his flaws.
Democrats often struggle to connect with voters because they don't have a clear message or identity. They need to focus on issues that matter to everyday people.
Expecting that a higher authority will correct wrongs in politics is unrealistic. Voters are looking for practical solutions, not just complaints about Trump.

People with Serious Mental Illness Say Racist and Bigoted Shit All the Time

13211 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24

🏥 Health Politics Mental health Disability Rights Social Issues Psychiatry Stigma

People with serious mental illnesses can sometimes express racist or bigoted thoughts, which challenges the common belief that mental illness doesn't influence behavior. It's important to recognize that mental health conditions can distort thinking and actions.
Acknowledging the complex relationship between mental illness and behavior is essential. People should not dismiss bad behavior outright but consider the person's mental health struggles and how those may impact their actions.
There’s a cultural tendency to oversimplify mental illness, leading to misunderstandings. It's vital to accept that being mentally ill doesn't exempt someone from responsibility for their actions, but it can complicate how we view those actions.

So When Are We Allowed to Ask the Patrick Mahomes Question?

5321 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25

🎾 Sports Football Analysis Athletes Statistics Media

Patrick Mahomes has had a noticeable decline in his performance over the last two seasons, which is surprising for someone viewed as one of the best quarterbacks. People should be allowed to discuss this drop in stats and performance even if his team continues to win.
Despite still being a good quarterback, his recent numbers do not match the elite standards he set earlier in his career, which raises questions about his current ability. His style of play has shifted from aggressive to more conservative, leading to fewer big plays.
Sports media often avoids criticizing star players like Mahomes due to their past success and the team's winning record. However, if other quarterbacks experienced similar declines, they would likely face significant scrutiny, suggesting that it's time for a more honest conversation about Mahomes.

On the Occasion of This Election, Let Me Talk to You About Bill Clinton

13551 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Political Ideologies Voting Rights Campaign strategies

The writer feels that voting for candidates just because they belong to a party is not right. They believe politicians should earn votes by truly representing the people's values.
They think that the Democratic Party has moved too far to the right and is too focused on compromise, which harms its ability to address important issues.
The writers criticize Bill Clinton for his conservative actions and believe that the Democratic Party should not rely on him as a respected figure.

If the Democrats Want to Win, Someday They'll Need to Give People Something to Vote For

13335 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Democratic Party Political strategy Ideology

Democrats need to offer clear reasons for people to vote for them. If they don’t, they risk losing support from their base.
Critics feel that Democrats often focus on attacking others instead of explaining their own policies. This makes it hard for voters to believe in the party.
A lack of confidence and clear values from Democrats can lead to more support for extreme candidates. To change this, Democrats must embrace their beliefs and communicate them effectively.