Gideon's Substack

Gideon's Substack explores global and domestic political dynamics, focusing on conflict, democracy, and societal issues. It examines ideological conformity, geopolitical tensions, and the impacts of political decisions, offering insights into the complexities of allyship, governance, and the consequences of ideological and military conflicts on societies and international relations.

Political Analysis Geopolitical Conflicts Democracy and Governance Societal and Cultural Issues Ideological Trends and Impacts International Relations Military Strategies Legal and Judicial Perspectives Human Rights Economic Conditions and Policies

The hottest Substack posts of Gideon's Substack

And their main takeaways

Oscar the Grouch

7 implied HN points • 02 Mar 25
🎭️ Culture Film Criticism Entertainment Events Awards
  1. Oscar movies often don't match personal taste, despite their prestige. It's interesting how we expect serious films to be good but sometimes they aren't.
  2. Some films gain Oscar nominations for political reasons rather than quality, and this can lead to unexpected viewer reactions.
  3. The film industry is changing, with fewer mid-budget, serious films being made, which affects what audiences are excited to see. Maybe it's time to wish for better films that speak to a wider audience.

Is It Better To Believe In Anything Than In Nothing?

28 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Belief Philosophy Ethics Culture
  1. Believing in something, even if it's not perfect, can be better than not believing at all. It gives people a sense of meaning in life.
  2. Skepticism is important; it's better to question and understand what you believe rather than blindly accept any belief, especially if it involves harmful practices.
  3. People often connect with beliefs not just through logic, but also through community and shared experiences, like enjoying meals together.

Strictly Business

21 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Diplomacy Trump administration International relations Ukraine conflict
  1. Trump sees Ukraine as a failing business, not a cause to support. He wants to cut his losses and move on rather than help Ukraine.
  2. Russia's relationship with China is strengthening as a result of the war. This shows that America's efforts to weaken Russia have not paid off.
  3. Europe needs to find common ideals and reasons to fight together. Without that, they risk being stuck in a cycle of paying off threats without resolving the bigger issues.

Psalm 137 On My Mind

21 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East International Conflict Political Commentary Human Rights
  1. The film 'No Other Land' focuses on the struggles of villagers facing eviction in Masafer Yatta. It shows how they resist demolitions and try to maintain their community despite the challenges.
  2. The film presents a local view of the conflict and highlights feelings of injustice, but lacks broader political context. This can shift viewers' sympathies without understanding all sides.
  3. In conflicts like this, it's common to see only your own perspective. Broader understanding can be hard to achieve, but it's necessary for lasting peace.

The End of the Cordon Sanitaire

124 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Elections Coalitions Governance Populism
  1. When political parties distance themselves from extreme groups, they might inadvertently empower those very groups. This creates a cycle where the extremes gain more influence in politics.
  2. Political coalitions often need to include groups they disagree with to gain power. This can lead to instability because the goals and values of these groups may not align.
  3. Ignoring the need for compromise can lead to fragmentation of political parties, making it harder to achieve any unity. Realizing this is crucial for facing the current challenges in politics.
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Be Careful What You Wish For: Gaza Edition

38 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Foreign Policy Middle East Elections Public Opinion
  1. Trump may be setting a trap for Israel by proposing a plan for Gaza that seems appealing but is unrealistic. It suggests removing a population without addressing how to actually do it.
  2. Many Israelis seem to support Trump's plan, thinking it will lead to a solution for Gaza. But this belief might backfire if they realize the plan can't actually happen.
  3. This situation could create a political mess for Israel in the future. If Trump's promises go unfulfilled, the Israeli people may seek someone to blame, leading to more instability.

Fun With Proportional Representation: German Edition

19 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Coalitions Parties Representation Voting
  1. In Germany's elections, small parties can greatly affect the outcomes for larger parties. Their ability to surpass the 5% vote threshold is crucial since it determines which parties can get seats in the government.
  2. Minor parties like the BSW and Linke can influence coalition options even if they don't join the next government. Their success or failure could shift power dynamics significantly in the Bundestag.
  3. Voting patterns can have unexpected results in proportional representation systems. A party's gains might help another party grow stronger, highlighting the complex nature of electoral outcomes.

Revisiting the Thucydides Trap

42 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Military Strategy Geopolitics Foreign Policy Economic Policy
  1. America's current strategy against China may be pushing us closer to conflict, even if it makes logical sense. Each action taken against China can lead to more tension and responses from them.
  2. The idea of America being the top power is becoming less certain. Other countries might start to prefer working with China, which could weaken America's alliances and influence.
  3. Instead of trying to stay the dominant power, America might benefit from fostering relationships based on shared interests. This could lead to a more complex but stable global balance, instead of constant competition.

A Solon, a King, or a Tyrant?

28 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Constitution Executive Power Political theory Elections Authoritarianism
  1. There are different views among Trump's supporters about what kind of leader they want him to be. Some see him as a potential king or tyrant, while others hope he can restore the republic.
  2. Many believe that Trump’s use of executive power might lead to a significant change in the American political system. This has sparked concerns about whether it could evolve into a form of dictatorship.
  3. It’s important to recognize the differences among supporters' visions for America’s future. Understanding these differences can help shape the opposition's strategy moving forward.

On Pharaoh's Hardened Heart

40 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religious texts Philosophy Judaism Theology Cultural Practices
  1. Pharaoh's character shows how someone can become too proud to admit they are wrong. Even when faced with power beyond his own, he refuses to truly accept it.
  2. God hardens Pharaoh's heart to illustrate the importance of justice and punishment for past wrongdoings. This story highlights that sometimes, consequences need to be faced fully.
  3. In the end, even a hard-hearted person can show vulnerability. Pharaoh's last request to Moses for a blessing shows a moment of human connection, despite his earlier choices.

The Widening Gyre

57 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Constitutional Law Political theory Civil Rights Government Policy State power
  1. There's a big difference between law and sheer power. Law can be understood and followed, while totalitarian regimes can do whatever they want without following the law.
  2. Biden's declaration about the Equal Rights Amendment raises questions. If he can declare something to be law just because he believes it, then what prevents future presidents from doing the same with their own beliefs?
  3. The whole situation might just be for show and not really change anything. This can make people lose trust in what the law actually is and think it's just about who has the most power.

A Revolution That Has Run Out of Gas

64 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🏝 Travel Political Climate Economic issues Social Issues
  1. Cuba is facing serious problems like food shortages, inflation, and a collapsing power grid. Many people feel hopeless about their future, which is reflected in their everyday lives.
  2. The Cuban government seems disconnected from the struggles of its people. Instead of caring for the citizens, they focus on holding onto power and making money from foreign companies.
  3. Despite the difficulties, people in Cuba are friendly and resilient. The tourist experience can be nice, but it doesn't hide the deeper issues the country is facing.

Biden Gives Up On America

107 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Government Legislation Public Opinion
  1. Biden's pardon of his son Hunter shows a strong parental instinct, but it also raises questions about his priorities as a leader and the message it sends about justice.
  2. Many people feel hopeless about the political situation, thinking it's not worth trying to maintain ethical standards when the other side does not.
  3. The sense of resentment among Democrats can lead to a desire to give up on the system, which might have negative consequences for the future of the party and the country.

Is "The Brutalist" a Holocaust Film? An Architecture Film? Is This "Masterpiece" Even Much of a Film?

35 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Art Architecture Literature Media
  1. The film 'The Brutalist' is criticized for its heavy-handed writing and lack of real character depth. The characters often feel more like symbols than real people.
  2. Despite being praised for its visuals, the film fails to convey a genuine sense of place or energy in its settings. It does not fully explore the historical context it claims to represent.
  3. Many viewers feel the film treats serious subjects like the Holocaust and American identity in a superficial way. This reduces the experiences of the characters to mere symbols rather than meaningful narratives.

Birthright Citizenship and the "Living Constitution"

23 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Citizenship Constitution Executive orders Immigration
  1. Trump's executive order aims to end birthright citizenship for children born to unauthorized immigrants and could lead to legal challenges. This decision raises questions about American citizenship and the original intent of the Fourteenth Amendment.
  2. The debate on this issue may split both liberal and conservative judges based on their judicial philosophies versus their political beliefs. Some may see the need for a 'Living Constitution' that adapts to today's context, while others may adhere strictly to the Constitution's original text.
  3. International comparisons show that other countries have restricted birthright citizenship, complicating arguments for maintaining the current U.S. policy. The outcome of potential legal battles may impact how democracy and constitutional interpretation are understood in America.

Meeting David Lynch on the Dreaming Plane

26 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Television Dreams Art Media
  1. Movies can feel like dreams, and David Lynch's films especially tap into that dreamlike quality. They connect deeply with our subconscious and show us the hidden layers of life.
  2. Lynch's storytelling often blurs the line between dreams and reality, making us question our perceptions. This can be both enchanting and confusing, as seen in films like 'Mulholland Drive.'
  3. Experiencing a film should be a shared connection, not just an analysis. It’s valuable to remember that movies are meant to evoke feelings and experiences, not just be puzzles to solve.

Manliness Is Next To Godliness?

114 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conservatism Morality Christianity Masculinity Political Dynamics
  1. Many people today might view manliness and moral courage differently than before. They often see strong self-assertion, even if it's not traditional or polite, as a sign of being a 'real man.'
  2. There’s a belief among some that moral standards have been corrupted, leading them to respect those who reject these standards instead. They feel that being true to oneself and showing strength is what really matters.
  3. The ongoing transformation in how manliness is defined raises questions about traditional values. Some think that a connection with faith might be overshadowed by this new bold view of masculinity.

The New New Class?

97 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Political Leadership Meritocracy Cultural influence
  1. There's been a shift in the people who hold real power in society, moving from landowners to those with skills and education, known as the meritocratic class. Now, we might be seeing the rise of a new group focused on gaining attention.
  2. Right-wing populism seems to rise from a reaction against the meritocratic upper class, attracting those who feel alienated by the success of educated elites. This new group connects more with traditional values and has different pathways to success.
  3. The way we compete for attention today has changed how success is defined, especially with social media's influence. The idea of being an 'influencer' could shape a new class, where winning attention plays a crucial role in gaining power and status.

Emilia Pérez Is Not a Progressive Message Movie

9 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Music Identity Art Theater
  1. The film 'Emilia Pérez' is unique and not exactly what you would expect for an Oscar movie. It's got a strange plot, focusing on a drug lord who changes her identity and tries to redeem her past.
  2. The main character shows that change isn't just about surgery or a new identity. Even after transforming, she still struggles with her old problems and selfish behaviors.
  3. This movie challenges the idea that all characters representing marginalized groups should be perfect heroes. It presents a flawed character who doesn't fit neatly into progressive narratives, which makes it stand out.

Giving Trump Just What He Wants

45 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Political parties Public Policy Political theory
  1. Both violent actions and political pardons can push society closer to authoritarianism. It's important to recognize that these reactions stem from a belief that democracy is breaking down.
  2. Preemptively pardoning people can look like an abuse of power and may harm public trust. This kind of action might seem reasonable in response to threats, but can actually fuel more distrust and paranoia.
  3. Engaging in normal politics and upholding the rule of law is crucial. Abandoning these principles only strengthens authoritarian figures by giving them more reasons to justify their actions.

Is "A Real Pain" a Holocaust Film?

19 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Jewish Identity Family Dynamics Trauma
  1. The film 'A Real Pain' explores family connections and personal pain rather than focusing solely on the Holocaust experience. It highlights how the characters are motivated by their relationships, especially their bond with their grandmother.
  2. It questions the idea of generational trauma by showing that the characters deal with their struggles in their own ways, suggesting that their issues are common to many people and not uniquely linked to their grandmother's past.
  3. The film intentionally avoids heavy themes of Jewish trauma related to the Holocaust, instead subtly emphasizing the importance of living and connecting in the present, which can be just as significant.

Finally, a Cease-Fire

9 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Conflict resolution Middle East Political Dynamics Foreign Policy
  1. A new cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas is in place, but it's hard to believe it will last long. There are doubts about whether all sides will honor it.
  2. Both sides are claiming victory despite significant losses, but neither has achieved meaningful goals for lasting peace. The situation remains tense and complicated.
  3. The incoming president could influence future negotiations, but there are concerns about what they can really offer to either side, especially given the unrest in the West Bank.

Make America Greater Than Ever!

9 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Policy National Identity Political Divides Geopolitical Strategy
  1. The biggest divide in America is not political, but rather between those who fear the future and those who see it as an opportunity. This divide affects both major political parties.
  2. A proposal is made for significant territorial expansion to accommodate a growing population, aiming to increase the U.S. population to 1 billion people while reducing overall density.
  3. Various phases are outlined for acquiring territories, suggesting that each new territory will provide strategic advantages, resources, and help the U.S. establish a stronger global presence.

The *Actual* Day After

40 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Voter Behavior Policy Issues Political strategy
  1. Trump was seen as the likely Republican nominee early on, and once he was nominated, it seemed he would have a good chance of winning the presidency again. Many factors, including Biden's unpopularity, contributed to this belief.
  2. The recent election showed a strong shift to the right in voter preferences across many demographics, including young people and various minority groups. This indicates widespread dissatisfaction with the current state of leadership and policies.
  3. Democrats need to acknowledge the reasons behind the election results and work on offering solutions and fresh ideas, rather than just trying to reverse the outcome. It's essential to fill the gaps in governance and connect with the voters' concerns.

Should America Reopen Its Frontiers?

11 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Cultural Issues National Security Political Ideologies
  1. Some people think America should expand again by taking over more land, like Alaska or the Virgin Islands. This idea comes from a desire to grow and have more resources.
  2. However, there's a strong argument that America might not need new territories since it already has access to resources and allies. Many wonder what the actual benefit would be to everyday Americans.
  3. Finally, the urge to grow bigger can be seen as a desire for power and control, rather than a need for democracy. It raises questions about whether America should focus on being a better nation instead of just growing larger.

Gratitude Redux

16 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Gratitude Ethics Existentialism Social justice Personal Growth
  1. Gratitude is about focusing on the good things in life, even when there are also bad things happening. It helps us see the positives without having to judge everything.
  2. Even tough experiences can teach us valuable lessons and help us grow. Feeling gratitude doesn't mean we ignore the bad; it just helps us appreciate the good that can come from it.
  3. Gratitude and justice are different but can coexist. We can be thankful for what we have while also recognizing the injustices in the world and working to make it better.

Who's Surprised By Trump's Hawkish Appointments?

21 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political appointments Trump administration Republican party International relations
  1. Trump's new foreign policy team includes several individuals known for their hawkish views, indicating a potential aggressive stance in international relations.
  2. There is uncertainty about Trump's actual foreign policy direction, as his decisions may lack a clear strategy and could change unpredictably.
  3. While some argue Trump's unpredictability could deter threats, it also leads to confusion about America's true intentions and commitments on the global stage.

Revolution in Syria

11 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Foreign Policy International relations Geopolitics Civil War
  1. The situation in Syria is changing rapidly, and it caught many by surprise. The collapse of the al-Assad regime could lead to new dynamics in the region.
  2. Turkey may benefit the most from the new regime in Syria, gaining control over the northern areas and possibly reducing Iran's influence. However, it's unclear what Turkey plans to do next.
  3. The role of outside powers, especially Russia and the U.S., will be crucial moving forward. They need to understand the complex situation instead of thinking their actions alone caused these changes.

Resistance Is Futile

14 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Legislation Political strategy Political Analysis
  1. Trump is likely to appoint people who align with his views, even if they lack traditional qualifications. This means that nominations can be based more on loyalty than expertise.
  2. The Senate has the power to reject some of Trump's nominees, but this could lead to similar replacements being appointed. It all depends on whether senators are willing to take a stand.
  3. Now is a time for collaboration in politics, as resisting Trump's approach may not lead to significant change. The dynamics will shift based on public opinion and the political landscape.

The Day After

11 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Bipartisanship Foreign Policy Budget Public Opinion
  1. Bipartisan teamwork is really needed to tackle America's issues, especially the budget and foreign policy. If both parties don't work together, big problems may get ignored.
  2. The new president, no matter who it is, will face challenges in getting people to accept their decisions. There might be a lot of blame and accusations about fairness, which could make governing tough.
  3. Some topics, like immigration and abortion, could see shifts in policy depending on the winner. However, the hardest problems will need both parties to collaborate for real solutions.

Maculate Conception Redux

7 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Contemporary Art Art market Art Criticism Conceptual Art
  1. The value of art can sometimes seem absurd, like a banana taped to a wall being sold for millions. It's more about the idea and the story than the physical object itself.
  2. Jasper Johns's artwork shows that art can be both conceptual and deeply emotional. His paintings connect abstract ideas with personal experiences, making them meaningful beyond just their visual appearance.
  3. Art should be seen as a gift to share and reflect upon, rather than just a product to be bought and sold. This perspective keeps the spirit of art alive and important.

The End of Allyship

116 implied HN points • 24 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Diversity Conflict resolution Policy Making Democracy
  1. The concept of 'allyship' may have reached its end due to complexities and conflicts that arise when trying to be allies with different groups.
  2. Being an ally often requires adopting language and views of one group, which can create enemies with another group, leading to division and conflict.
  3. Institutions may need to move away from 'allyship' and focus on making decisions based on what they believe is right, rather than following the demands of particular groups.

Why Everyone Should Vote For Kamala Harris

7 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Voter Behavior Political parties Public Opinion
  1. Cross-pressured voters, like anti-abortion feminists and libertarians, might find reasons to support Kamala Harris despite their different views. They could benefit from her leadership over the potential policies of Donald Trump.
  2. People who care about strong unions and immigration restriction may also see Harris as a better option. She could work with a Republican Congress on trade and labor issues better than Trump.
  3. Voters focused on the Palestinian cause should consider how their vote influences U.S. foreign policy. Supporting Harris might contribute to a more humane international approach compared to Trump's aggressive stance.

Robert Hur Just Gave Democrats An Off-Ramp

42 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democrats Special counsel Election Polls
  1. Special counsel Robert Hur hinted that President Biden may not be mentally capable of criminal conspiracy, posing a challenge for the Democrats.
  2. The Democrats face the task of convincing the public that Biden is fit for the presidency amid doubts about his capacity raised by Hur's comments.
  3. The Democrats have a tough decision ahead on whether to stick with Biden for the election or make a change based on public perception and past electoral outcomes.

Eyeless in Gaza

62 implied HN points • 09 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict Diplomacy Peace Leadership
  1. Israel's military and intelligence services failed to anticipate and respond effectively to Hamas's invasion from Gaza.
  2. Hamas's motive for the attacks was to show Israel as weak, leading to potential escalation of conflict.
  3. Criticism is directed towards Netanyahu's leadership for internal political divisions, contributing to the current crisis.

Ethnic Cleansing and the Stakes in Gaza

42 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Ethnic Cleansing International Conflict Humanitarian Crisis War Crimes
  1. Ethnic cleansing has taken place in various regions with significant impacts on population demographics.
  2. The issue of ethnic cleansing in Gaza is being debated and its consequences are being discussed.
  3. The potential for ethnic cleansing in Gaza raises concerns about global perceptions and the future of the post-WWII liberal international order.

What Makes Something Progressive?

31 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Progressivism Terrorism History Global Conflicts Imperialism
  1. The term 'progressive' is often misunderstood and used as a catch-all for right-thinking attitudes about social causes, but the determination of these attitudes is crucial.
  2. Progressivism is centered around history and the belief that it has a discernible direction, influencing one's stance on various issues based on which 'side' of history they are on.
  3. The idea that history has a definite direction and a global left is debated, with a call to question preconceived notions and the importance of understanding the complexity and nuance of world politics.

The Dilemma of the Pro-Palestinian Voter

28 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Political strategy
  1. Arab-American and Muslim-American voters may not naturally align solely with left-wing ideologies and may have diverse concerns beyond foreign policy.
  2. For single-issue activists, it can be rational to have a strict litmus test and not support any candidate who does not meet that criteria.
  3. The approach of pushing a single issue to promote progressive causes may inadvertently strengthen an extremist and dysfunctional opposition, which is not ideal for a broad left-wing movement.