The Ruffian

The Ruffian, authored by Ian Leslie, explores a wide range of topics including history, music, philosophy, technology, social issues, leadership, and creativity. It challenges popular narratives, examines the impact of cultural phenomena, and delves into historical events, offering insights into human behavior, societal trends, and the complexity of various disciplines.

History Music Philosophy Technology and Society Social Issues Leadership and Innovation Creativity and Art Political and Cultural Commentary Human Behavior Literature

The hottest Substack posts of The Ruffian

And their main takeaways

The Fight

116 implied HN points • 03 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Current Events Public Opinion Policy Debate Election Campaigns
  1. Moral outrage is sometimes necessary and ignoring it can feel wrong. It's not always smart to be overly sophisticated about serious issues.
  2. There are often simple truths that are hard to accept, but dismissing them as just tough love is misguided.
  3. It’s important to engage genuinely with significant events rather than adopt a cynical or indifferent approach. Authenticity matters in discussions about serious topics.

The Audacity of Ambition

503 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🎭️ Culture Celebrity Film Art Ambition Public Speaking
  1. Timothée Chalamet is openly striving for greatness in his career, which is unusual in today's culture. Most people don't talk about wanting to be the best, but he is bold enough to express that ambition.
  2. Chalamet has devoted a huge amount of time and effort to his craft, even going as far as shutting off his phone for months to fully immerse himself in his roles. This shows how dedicated he is to his work.
  3. His speech about ambition was met with mixed reactions, highlighting a cultural tension where many people are hesitant to celebrate individual success. Chalamet's honesty about his goals challenges that idea.

Tolstoy On Disagreement

264 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Argumentation Political theory Literature Philosophy
  1. People often argue about politics without realizing they value different things. Understanding what others care about can help resolve disagreements.
  2. When discussing, it's helpful to express what you truly love or believe. This can lead to surprising agreement and reduce pointless arguments.
  3. Tolstoy highlights that many arguments are similar to digging up the same truth. Acknowledging shared values can make discussions more productive.

Why Are Some Of Our Most Successful Leaders Mentally Ill?

510 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Psychology Economics Political theory Mental health
  1. Some successful leaders, like Javier Milei and Elon Musk, show traits that could be seen as mentally ill or eccentric. This often helps them think outside the box and act decisively, even in the face of criticism.
  2. Having a lack of empathy can sometimes be a strength in leadership. When leaders don't try to please everyone, they can take bold actions that others may avoid.
  3. While unconventional behavior can lead to positive change, not all 'crazy' actions are beneficial. Sometimes it's just madness without any deeper logic.

The End of Cheap Progressive Signalling

368 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Corporate Governance Social Issues Progressivism Cultural critique
  1. Companies are reassessing their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) due to increased pushback and potential risks. They're realizing that showing support can now have real consequences.
  2. The era of easy progressive signaling is over, forcing companies to reconsider their policies and be more genuine about their commitment to social causes. Some might have to rethink their actions rather than just following trends.
  3. The left needs to evaluate if some of its agenda was based on easy symbols rather than real substance. This shift might help them connect more with everyday people who felt excluded from those discussions.
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How the Bud Light Debacle Predicted America's Corporate Vibe Shift

301 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
💼 Business Marketing Branding Consumer behavior Corporate strategy Cultural Trends
  1. Bud Light faced a major backlash after a marketing campaign featuring a transgender celebrity, showing how quickly consumer sentiment can change. This backlash resulted in a significant loss of sales and brand trust.
  2. Unlike typical consumer boycotts, the impact on Bud Light endured even after the company attempted to distance itself from the controversy. This highlights the lasting effects that cultural issues can have on brands.
  3. The Bud Light incident reflects a larger trend in corporate America where companies need to be more aware of the cultural-political environment. Brands must navigate these changes carefully to maintain their audience and market position.

Stop Making Sense

534 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Philosophy Film
  1. Art doesn’t always need to make sense. Sometimes, it's okay to enjoy things that feel profound even if we can't explain them.
  2. We often prefer mysteries over puzzles. While puzzles have clear answers, mysteries make us think deeply and keep us engaged.
  3. Current culture pushes for clear and simple art because of instant gratification. However, artists like David Lynch and Bob Dylan show us the beauty in ambiguity and complexity.

How To Love Classical Music

878 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Music Art Education Tradition Performance
  1. Classical music has a rich history and can be a powerful emotional experience, especially when experienced live. Seeing many musicians come together to perform can make the music feel even more alive and impactful.
  2. Investing time and effort into understanding classical music can greatly enhance your appreciation of it. Unlike pop music, classical music may require more focus and patience to enjoy fully.
  3. You don't need to grow up with classical music to appreciate it, but having some exposure helps. Many people discover and love it later in life, and there are many resources available to help you get started.

How I Use ChatGPT

663 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Artificial Intelligence Software Consumer Tech Innovation Tools
  1. ChatGPT and Claude are popular AI tools, but users might find Claude to be more useful. Brand recognition plays a big role in which tool people choose.
  2. Many users are just starting to explore how to use LLMs (like ChatGPT and Claude) effectively. There's a lot of potential in these tools that many people are not fully tapping into.
  3. The author lists several ways they have used LLMs for various tasks, from troubleshooting tech issues to summarizing essays. This shows how versatile and helpful these tools can be in everyday life.

Banishing The Inner Critic

245 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Athletes Psychology Competition Performance Tennis
  1. Madison Keys won the Australian Open by playing more instinctively and accepting her mistakes. She realized that losing while being true to herself was better than winning by playing tightly and feeling stressed.
  2. She worked on her mental health through therapy, which helped her feel happier and less burdened by the pressure to win. She learned that success in tennis doesn't define her worth as a person.
  3. Keys found success by caring less about the outcome of her matches. By reducing her focus on winning, she could play more freely and confidently.

Notes On the Great Vibe Shift

510 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political culture Social Change Corporate Policy Identity politics
  1. There has been a noticeable shift in company policies, with many businesses moving away from diversity and inclusion initiatives since Trump's second win. This suggests that leaders now feel free to express their true beliefs.
  2. Unlike in previous elections, Trump's return has not sparked widespread outrage or resistance, showing a possible acceptance from even his opponents. People are more willing to see him as a leader they can work with.
  3. This change in culture not only affects American workplaces but also extends internationally, with global leaders now more eager to engage with Trump than oppose him. It marks a return to more traditional values in politics and business.

How - and Why - To Read...

805 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
📚 Literature Cognitive Science Cultural impact Media Consumption
  1. Reading is becoming less common, and many adults struggle with literacy today. This decline is linked to the rise of social media and digital content.
  2. Literacy is not just about reading and writing; it's vital for clear thinking and understanding complex ideas. Without it, discussions can become shallow and less informed.
  3. In a world where fewer people read deeply, those who do will stand out and have an advantage. Practicing reading helps build important thinking skills that are valuable in many areas of life.

The Ad That Radicalised Me

1511 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Ethics Healthcare Public Opinion Social Issues
  1. The debate around assisted dying brings up strong feelings. Some people see the law as a way to help those who are suffering, while others worry it could hurt vulnerable people.
  2. Critics argue that individual choice shouldn't come before community values. They believe allowing assisted dying could lead to a slippery slope where life is devalued.
  3. It's important to talk honestly about the trade-offs involved. Opposing the bill means accepting that some people will continue to suffer, which is a tough reality to face.

The Death of Scenius

288 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Theater Literature Urban Studies
  1. Urban creativity has declined because artists are less connected and no longer gather in cities like they used to. This lack of connection limits inspiration and collaboration.
  2. The concept of 'scenius' shows that creativity thrives when talented people are in close proximity to each other. Working together can spark new ideas and movements.
  3. Rising living costs and the internet's influence have made it harder for artists to meet and collaborate, leading to fewer innovative cultural movements today.

The Enigma of Luigi Mangione

528 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political violence Social movements Healthcare policy Public Opinion Radicalism
  1. Luigi Mangione, the man who committed a murder in a protest against healthcare, was from a wealthy background and had no history of being wronged by the system. His actions don't fit the narrative of fighting for the oppressed.
  2. Despite being celebrated by some leftist circles, Mangione was more of a liberal centrist with interests that aligned with rational thought and skepticism, which contrasts sharply with his violent act.
  3. The public's reaction to Mangione's actions shows a troubling acceptance of political violence. This could encourage more similar actions, leading to a dangerous cycle of justifying violence in political discourse.

My Ten Favourite Books of the Year

485 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
📚 Literature Books Reviews Authors Genres Reading
  1. The author shares their top ten book recommendations for the year. These books are meant to inspire and entertain readers.
  2. There are special offers like discounts for subscriptions available until Christmas. This can be a good time to treat yourself or someone else to a subscription.
  3. The post includes links to podcasts and additional content, keeping readers engaged with a variety of topics related to culture and politics.

Maybe Your Opinion Is Just a Feeling About a Story

503 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Arts History Philosophy Opinion Literature
  1. Opinions can often be influenced by emotions rather than facts. It's important to recognize when your feelings about a story shape your views.
  2. The debate around the Elgin Marbles shows that we can change our minds when we learn more and see different perspectives about a historical issue.
  3. Identifying and understanding the narratives around controversial topics can help us make more informed decisions and avoid biases based on tribal feelings.

Are You Charismatic Or Charming?

460 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Public Figures
  1. Charisma and charm are different. Charisma makes someone seem larger than life, while charm makes them relatable and friendly.
  2. Political figures can succeed with either style, but they should stick to what suits them best. Trying too hard to switch styles can backfire.
  3. It's helpful to know if you are more charismatic or charming, as this can guide your interactions and relationships both personally and professionally.

Best of The Ruffian 2024

159 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Media Politics
  1. The Ruffian gained more subscribers this year, growing from 20,000 to 33,000. This shows that more people are interested in the content.
  2. There were 74 posts and 3 podcast episodes published, with several popular topics, including lists and questions about happiness and culture.
  3. The podcast is set to continue into 2025, featuring conversations with notable guests, and exclusive content for paid subscribers will also be available.

The Six Million Dollar Banana

264 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Contemporary Art Conceptual Art Art market
  1. Conceptual art can be surprising and even absurd, like the banana taped to a wall that sold for millions. It makes people talk and think about what art really is.
  2. Artists like Maurizio Cattelan use controversy to gain attention and increase their art's value. They want people to react, whether it's outrage or curiosity.
  3. This kind of art blurs the line between art and commerce, showing how public reactions can actually become part of the artwork itself.

What Does It Mean For a Brand To Be Radical?

294 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
💼 Business Branding Marketing Automotive Consumer behavior Luxury goods
  1. Jaguar is undergoing a major rebranding and switching to an all-electric vehicle lineup, but they won't have new cars to sell until 2026. This means they are promoting themselves as a brand without tangible products.
  2. The new branding has sparked a lot of negative reactions, suggesting that their attempt to modernize may be seen as losing their identity rather than revitalizing it.
  3. Jaguar is aiming to target wealthier consumers with fewer, more expensive vehicles, moving towards a luxury market rather than competing with mainstream car brands.

The Unreal Thing

294 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🕹 Technology AI Creative Arts Advertising Media Innovation
  1. Coca-Cola's new Christmas ad was created using AI technology, marking a shift in how ads are made. This involves using tools that help creative teams visualize ideas much faster than before.
  2. The process of making the ad felt more like software development than traditional filmmaking. This new method allows for quick drafts, which can speed up the entire creative process.
  3. Overall, the integration of AI in the creative industries could change how we think about creating art and media, making it more efficient but also raising questions about creativity.

Why Does Donald Trump Keep Happening?

270 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Voting behavior Political trends Party Dynamics
  1. Donald Trump keeps winning elections because he connects with a lot of people's feelings and fears. Many voters feel forgotten, and he makes them feel heard.
  2. The Democratic Party may be losing support because they struggle to relate to everyday issues that concern regular folks. They need to communicate better with their base.
  3. Looking ahead, it's important for all parties to listen more and understand what people really want. Engaging with the community can help rebuild trust and support.

Why You Should Ignore All the Polls

227 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Polling Campaigns Political Analysis Voter Behavior
  1. Polls don't really tell you what you need to know about elections. They can be misleading and don't account for many factors.
  2. When you feel tempted to constantly check election updates, try doing something else instead. Activities like walking or listening to music can make you feel better.
  3. No matter how informed you think you are, you can't predict the outcome of elections. It's better to accept uncertainty than stress about it.

The End of History

1241 implied HN points • 25 Nov 23
🚌 Education History Humanities Critique Academia Research
  1. Academic historians are facing challenges within their own discipline
  2. Researchers in London studied the impact of the Black Death on people of African descent
  3. There is concern over the misuse of historical narratives for social activism in academic research

Who Has The Better Final Pitch?

98 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Public Opinion Political Advertising Voting
  1. Voting is happening now in America, and people are waiting in long lines. This shows how engaged citizens are in the election process.
  2. The focus is on the final pitches made by the candidates before the election. It's important to compare these to understand their messages better.
  3. There is an anticipation about who will win, either a new president or a president-elect. This moment is significant for the future of the country.

Leslie's Razors

835 implied HN points • 06 Jan 24
📖 Philosophy
  1. In philosophy, a \
  2. Have a bias towards ideas that have stood the test of time.
  3. When faced with choices, trust your past self over impulsive decisions.

In Praise of Slow Learners

460 implied HN points • 16 Mar 24
🚌 Education Learning Strategies Personal Development Cognitive skills
  1. Slow learners can develop valuable adaptive strategies to keep up with faster peers, sometimes surpassing them in the long run.
  2. Fast learners may be less incentivized to develop their 'software' intelligence traits, leading them to become gradually less effective over time.
  3. Choosing the slow route in learning can lead to better understanding, improved intelligence, and enhanced judgment in the long term.

Hitler's Willing Executioners

448 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
💾 History Genocide Holocaust Antisemitism Nazism World War II
  1. Antisemitism in Germany was deeply rooted and violent, with a long history preceding the Nazi era. The widespread contempt for Jews eventually manifested in the genocide as an end goal, not just a regrettable task.
  2. Daniel Goldhagen's book 'Hitler's Willing Executioners' argues that Germans were not reluctant participants in the genocide, but willing and enthusiastic in carrying out Hitler's war on Jews, contrary to claims of coercion.
  3. The Nazi era demonstrated a genocidal impulse where killing became an end in itself, bringing about a society where Jews were considered 'socially dead people', subjected to extreme cruelty and violence with the active participation and consent of ordinary Germans.

The Google Gemini Debacle Shows Us Why Office Politics Matters More Than Ever

393 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
🕹 Technology AI Ethics Culture Workplace Values
  1. Understanding the cultural and political worldview of staff compared to users is critical for companies, especially in today's politicized environment.
  2. AI companies need to consider and be transparent about their cultural politics to address the challenge of aligning AI values with those of society.
  3. The alignment problem for AI companies extends beyond just aligning values with humanity, and it involves understanding different clusters of values and varying cultural perspectives.

The Battle of Bamber Bridge

497 implied HN points • 30 Dec 23
💾 History World Politics Military Racism Impact
  1. During World War II, American soldiers faced racial tensions in Britain, leading to a significant incident at Bamber Bridge.
  2. The interaction between black GIs and white Britons during the war had a positive impact on racial attitudes in Britain, reducing prejudice in the long term.
  3. The Battle of Bamber Bridge highlighted the stark differences in racial attitudes between the US and Britain, showcasing the impact of human interaction in challenging prejudice.

Seduced By The Machine

368 implied HN points • 16 Dec 23
📖 Philosophy Values Metrics Autonomy Technology Happiness
  1. Humans are becoming more like machines by allowing apps and corporations to define their values and goals.
  2. Metrics and rankings from technology and organizations can shape our values, making us prioritize quantifiable standards over personal fulfillment.
  3. Value capture by external agents can lead to a loss of individuality and hinder personal growth, as people conform to standardized metrics and neglect their unique aspirations.

The State of the Culture Is...Not Bad, Actually

215 implied HN points • 09 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Film Music Art Literature TV
  1. Hollywood is showing signs of a mini-renaissance with a recent surge in quality films and more diverse storytelling, bucking the trend of blockbuster dominance.
  2. While concerns about a decline in mainstream culture persist, there are still pockets of innovation and quality in mediums like books, TV, music, and film, hinting at a complex and multifaceted cultural landscape.
  3. Previous golden ages in commercial art forms, like Hollywood in the 1970s, have occurred during periods of transition and uncertainty, suggesting that creativity flourishes when traditional norms are disrupted.

Notes on Radiohead

270 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🎶 Music Bands Podcasts Pop Albums
  1. Radiohead is known for their unique music style that is complex and emotionally resonant.
  2. Radiohead's focus on albums over hit singles sets them apart from other bands.
  3. Radiohead's success lies in their ability to maintain a vast audience while following their artistic instincts.

How To Fix DEI

233 implied HN points • 17 Feb 24
💼 Business Diversity Inclusion Workplace culture Social justice
  1. Define Your Goals clearly for your DEI program to ensure it meets tangible needs and is not just a checkbox exercise.
  2. Focus on Actions Over Symbols in your DEI efforts by making substantial changes like Saatchi and Saatchi's talent pool expansion initiative.
  3. Simplify Ruthlessly and favor Universal Solutions to avoid getting lost in complexity and ensure the maximum impact while cutting across identity boundaries.