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Unpopular Front delves into the dynamics of American politics, societal decay, and the influence of fascism, conspiracy theories, and antisemitism. It critiques the far-right's evolution, the role of social media, and the impact of ideology on personal relationships, using current events and historical analysis to argue against extremist narratives.

American Politics Societal Decay Fascism and Extremism Conspiracy Theories Antisemitism Social Media and Censorship Ideology and Personal Relationships Right-wing Intellectual Circles Christian Nationalism Citizenship and Political Identity War and Reality Manipulation Judiciary and Wealthy Elites

The hottest Substack posts of Unpopular Front

And their main takeaways

The education of a DOGE brownshirt; Class Struggle, Elite Theory, and "Socialisms of Fools"

63 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Class Struggle Media influence Radicalization
  1. The experience of political awakening can start from negative feelings about elite groups or government actions, often leading some individuals to adopt extreme ideologies. It's important to understand how these perspectives develop from personal experiences and societal influences.
  2. Antisemitism and other forms of racism often come from a structural viewpoint, portraying certain groups as controlling society for their benefit. This view isn't just about individual prejudice, but rather a deeper ideological belief that can be dangerous.
  3. The relationship between libertarian and fascist attacks on the liberal state showcases how these movements may share similar goals, focusing on dismantling perceived corruption while maintaining existing wealth and power structures.

Musk's Hyper-McCarthyism

110 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Ideology Populism Media influence
  1. Some believe that the actions of Musk and Trump are part of a larger plan connected to old ideological beliefs. Even if it seems chaotic, there might be a deeper reason behind their strategies.
  2. The attacks on government and its officials are seen as part of a larger goal to undermine social democratic values, similar to past political movements. This is not just about individual actions, but about changing the system itself.
  3. Musk is using social media as a way to gather support and spread his ideas, much like past leaders used their platforms. It's important for media and society to recognize this and not validate actions that have harmful intent.

The Last Days of Discourse

78 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Critique Public Discourse Social media Civil Society
  1. The media landscape seems diverse but is actually dominated by sensationalism and noise, making it hard for people to have meaningful discussions.
  2. There's a belief among some tech leaders that technological progress must come with a strict social order, rejecting equality movements like civil rights and feminism.
  3. Social media might actually be creating new forms of community rather than weakening them, but the political elite is struggling to adapt to these rapid changes.

Gold and Brown

97 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Libertarianism Fascism Democracy Politics History
  1. Libertarianism and fascism in the U.S. share surprising connections. Many people who identify as libertarians have been drawn to fascist ideas, showing how political beliefs can change over time.
  2. Both ideologies fundamentally distrust existing political structures. They believe that the state doesn’t serve everyone fairly and should be replaced with something that favors their specific interests.
  3. The push for privatization and corporate control often leads to the weakening of the state. This can confuse citizens, who may see these changes as improvements instead of a loss of their rights and freedoms.

What Happened Here

252 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Dynamics Class Struggle Technology impact Social movements
  1. The tech billionaires shifted from being liberal to reactionary as they felt their social power decline. They realized their wealth didn't guarantee control, prompting a backlash against social progress.
  2. Class struggles have evolved in the digital age, similar to those in industrial capitalism. Digital platforms can unite people for both progressive activism and reactionary movements.
  3. The growing divide between the tech elite and the general populace is fueled by a perceived threat from social changes. This leads to an increased focus on nationalism and anti-democratic sentiments among some tech leaders.
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Let's Get Real

145 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Authoritarianism Movements History
  1. Some believe that Trump isn't a strong leader because he struggles with Congress and doesn't have popular support. However, this weak position could be why he tries to bypass normal government processes and use executive power more.
  2. Critics of the idea that Trump is fascist argue he's not repressive, but history shows that early fascist leaders cooperated with existing systems before showing more authoritarian tendencies, which we may be seeing now.
  3. People often think fascism has to involve a strong military or violent takeover, but it can also use economic control and the threat of job loss to maintain power, which is evident in today's political environment.

Vibes Cartel

145 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Cultural Discourse Trend Analysis Political Commentary Media Critique Social movements
  1. 'Vibe shift' often acts like a trend in the stock market, where people want to align politically or culturally with what's popular at the moment.
  2. Media and leaders sometimes push specific vibes as a way to validate their actions, regardless of potential negative effects.
  3. It's important to think critically about these changes instead of just going along with them; we should question why and how these cultural shifts are happening.

Groyperfication

160 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Movements Right-wing Social media Youth Politics
  1. Groyperfication refers to the spread of extreme right views, primarily through online trolling and memes. This movement is influencing young conservatives and their political beliefs.
  2. Many young people on the right are exposed to groyper ideology daily, making it more popular than traditional conservative ideas. The groyper community is considered both avant-garde and mainstream among this group.
  3. Mainstream media struggle to understand and report on groyperfication, as it operates in a decentralized manner and challenges established political narratives.

Welcome to Vichy America

313 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Government Elections Public Opinion Political History
  1. The current state of America is compared to a Vichy regime, which is partly fascist and reflects a sense of defeat and exhaustion in democracy.
  2. This regime attracts a mix of different groups who may hide their true intentions while claiming to act in the nation's best interest.
  3. People might soon regret their support for leaders like Trump, realizing that their political choices have long-term consequences.

Returning to Origins

103 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Political History Ideologies Totalitarianism Capitalism
  1. The idea of endless expansion is central to certain political and economic beliefs. It suggests that growth is the ultimate goal, often seen in capitalist thinking.
  2. Many thinkers, like Arendt, have been quoted and referenced without fully understanding their ideas. This results in misinterpretations of their work and less meaningful conversations about important issues.
  3. The current alliance between different societal groups, like tech-oligarchs and the mob, shows a shared mindset that prioritizes power and accumulation, often at the expense of ethical considerations.

Mob Rule

154 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Social Dynamics Economic issues Class conflict Digital Culture
  1. Social media has created a split within the right, revealing tensions between traditional values and the rising 'mob' mentality. This mob is a blend of various societal frustrations and doesn't align with typical views of the working class.
  2. The mob mentality thrives on feelings of exclusion and resentment, leading to conspiracy thinking and a rejection of societal values. Members often feel their struggles are caused by a corrupt system, which fuels their anger.
  3. This mob-like behavior isn't exclusive to poorer individuals; it can also be found among the wealthy who believe their status grants them certain rights. Both groups may seek power and recognition, often through aggressive means, and share a disdain for the societal norms that keep them in check.

Reading Thiel's Op-Ed

127 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Political Philosophy Public Policy Media Critique Power Dynamics
  1. Peter Thiel's op-ed suggests a belief in a revolution against the old government system. He thinks exposing the past is necessary for moving forward.
  2. Thiel connects technology and politics, claiming that the internet has the power to reveal hidden truths, but this could also lead to increased paranoia and conspiracy thinking.
  3. There are worries about Thiel's approach to reconciliation, as he hints at the potential for scapegoating and power dynamics, which could lead to authoritarian control disguised as truth-telling.

The Jerk Store Called...

146 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Media Critique Public Opinion Civic engagement Political History
  1. The writer feels that the other person's critiques show a consistent pattern of viewing the world in terms of superficial character judgments. They argue this perspective is overly harsh and lacking depth.
  2. There is a belief that John’s January 6th piece was not his best work, and while he acknowledges that criticism is valid, he insists that its serious implications are often overlooked.
  3. The writer expresses disappointment in the response to January 6th, feeling there was a missed opportunity for a strong public defense of democracy that could have led to meaningful reforms.

More Adorno; Trump's Paleocon Foreign Policy; Christopher Hitchens on Ross Perot

47 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Fascism Propaganda Foreign Policy American history
  1. Adorno's ideas from his essay still resonate today. He suggests that leaders often present themselves as both powerful figures and relatable people.
  2. Fascist propaganda targets emotions rather than reason. It thrives by exploiting people's frustrations and existing beliefs without trying to change them.
  3. The concept of the 'great little man' is vital in fascist imagery, representing a leader who appears both ordinary and extraordinary, fulfilling followers' desires for authority.

January 6th was Successful

114 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Constitutional Law Media Criticism Party Dynamics Political polarization
  1. The January 6th attack on the Capitol was seen as a political success for Trump. Even after the chaos, he managed to rally support among his followers.
  2. Trump's approach has shifted the political landscape, making opposition seem less credible. Some critics are now viewed as supportive of him, whether they realize it or not.
  3. There is a sense that Trump's actions have broken the systems of law and norms, leading to a more raw and partisan political environment, where traditional standards no longer apply.

The Power of the Charlatans; Maurizio Serra on Malaparte; Bidenomics; Zoë Hu on Andrew Tate

38 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Influencers Biographies Economic Policy Historical Analysis
  1. There are many charlatans today who seem to gain respect, often promoting false ideas and oversimplified solutions. It's important to be aware of who we listen to.
  2. Grete de Francesco wrote a significant book about the dangers of charlatans and how they influence public opinion. Her insights show that charlatans take advantage of people's confusion during times of rapid change.
  3. De Francesco’s life story is also a tragedy; she was a talented journalist who was murdered in a concentration camp. Her work deserves to be remembered and reissued.

The Great MAGA Immigration Meltdown

93 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Economic Policy Nationalism Racism
  1. The H-1B visa program ties workers to their jobs, making it hard for them to leave and seek better opportunities, which some compare to indentured servitude.
  2. The current debate about immigration among Trump supporters isn't just about policy; it's linked to deeper beliefs about race and who should get priority in the workforce.
  3. There are two contrasting views on how to approach immigration: one sees it as a way to foster fair economic competition and freedom, while the other focuses on grabbing a select group of skilled workers based on racialized criteria.

The Year

96 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
📚 Literature Book Publishing Civic engagement Cultural critique Personal narratives
  1. This year was a mix of personal success and global challenges. Publishing a book felt great, but the issues it discussed became more real and troubling.
  2. The situation in Gaza highlighted deep contradictions in the Western view of human rights. It raises questions about how genuinely nations stand for freedom when their actions show otherwise.
  3. Reflecting on history reminds us of the importance of knowledge and storytelling. Even amidst loss, like a destroyed bookstore, preserving books symbolizes hope and continuity.

It's Jean-Marie's World, We're Just Living In It

56 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Nationalism Political Movements Political History Xenophobia
  1. Jean-Marie Le Pen's passing may seem like a relief, but his far-right ideas have become more mainstream through his daughter's leadership.
  2. Le Pen's style of politics, which focuses on populism and scapegoating immigrants, has influenced other global leaders, including Trump.
  3. The rise of national populism weakens traditional democratic values and promotes division based on race and nationality.

Elon Musk is Ross Perot on Crack

99 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Democracy Government Political Figures Public Opinion
  1. Elon Musk's influence is compared to Ross Perot's, showing how billionaires can challenge traditional political systems. They both wanted to cut through the bureaucracy and bring change by going directly to the public.
  2. The concept of using electronic voting or plebiscites can undermine representative democracy. This idea may give the illusion of direct democracy but can also lead to manipulation by powerful individuals.
  3. Historically, plebiscites have been tools used by authoritarian leaders to control public opinion. Similar trends today could weaken democratic structures and lead to more centralized power.

Civic Life Kinda Sucks

101 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Civic engagement Political theory Progressivism Local Politics
  1. Civic engagement can feel disappointing, as many people want to help but find it hard to be heard in group settings. Good intentions sometimes don't lead to real community connection.
  2. People often feel that political clubs and organizations can be unwelcoming, making it hard for newcomers to share their ideas or feel valued. This can lead to disillusionment.
  3. Writing and expressing opinions online can sometimes be more rewarding than traditional civic involvement. Many find that they prefer this quick way to participate rather than struggling with local politics.

The Tinkerer

98 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political violence Civil Unrest Social Issues Ideology Historical context
  1. Luigi Mangione, the suspected killer, seemed like a normal guy from a good family, with a stable social life and a well-educated background. However, a serious back injury and frustration with the medical system might have pushed him towards violence.
  2. His interests were surprisingly typical for a young tech worker, like reading famous dystopian novels and discussing future tech, which doesn't usually lead to extreme actions. This shows how regular people can sometimes make shocking choices when feeling lost.
  3. The situation reflects a larger issue in society, where many young, successful individuals feel disconnected and frustrated with the current system. This emotional struggle can drive some to act out in desperate and dangerous ways.

"X" Has Become a Hate Machine

106 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social media Hate Speech Political Commentary Censorship Public Discourse
  1. The platform 'X' has shifted to allowing more hate-filled content, where racist and misogynistic posts are becoming common. This reflects a change in how moderation practices are handled.
  2. People are noticing an increase in harmful content in their feeds, suggesting that the platform's algorithm is promoting these negative messages as normal. This could influence users' attitudes and behaviors.
  3. There's frustration with the idea that social media, especially 'X', is being used to push a specific political agenda. Some users feel trapped between platforms that either promote hate or are overly liberal.

Big Tech's Class War Politics

88 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Tech Impact Class Struggle Neoliberalism Capitalism
  1. Silicon Valley has shifted political views due to crises in both the U.S. political system and its own beliefs, leading to new coalitions forming that differ from the past.
  2. The tech sector is experiencing a class conflict where some entrepreneurs are pushing for changes against traditional management and labor structures, inspired by authoritarian models.
  3. This new tech movement could attempt to gain majority support, but its harsh approach may limit its ability to create a long-lasting, stable social system.

I Hope I'm Wrong

153 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political theory Political Communication Authoritarianism Campaign strategies
  1. It's important to trust your instincts, even when others disagree. Sometimes, being confident in your own analysis brings clarity in uncertain times.
  2. Having a strong, clear vision is crucial in politics. If you don't present a bold idea of the future, it makes it hard for people to rally behind you.
  3. Adapting to new situations and challenges is key. Old tactics might not work anymore, and new strategies need to be developed to build support and create change.

Jimmy Carter, Neoliberal; Lind Agonistes; Heterodox Economists; The Order

32 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Economic Policy Neoliberalism Populism Social movements
  1. Jimmy Carter's presidency is often viewed as a failure, but his policies led to a shift towards neoliberalism in the Democratic Party.
  2. There is a troubling connection between South African apartheid and modern American capitalism, highlighted by the views of tech leaders like Peter Thiel.
  3. Recent trends in the tech world show a dangerous ideology that suggests certain people should always be in power, echoing old systems of inequality.

Regrets, I have a few

87 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Elections Public Opinion Media Criticism Democratic Party
  1. It's important to be a leader and voice your opinions instead of just following the crowd, especially when you see issues that need addressing.
  2. Believing in the current political leadership can lead to complacency, and it's crucial to remain critical and aware of the system's flaws.
  3. Having the courage to make bold predictions and criticisms, even if they go against the grain, is necessary for true progress and understanding.

The Plot Against Citizenship

94 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Constitution Immigration Citizenship Government Civil Rights
  1. The plan to stop issuing citizenship documents to children of undocumented parents attacks birthright citizenship, which is protected by the 14th Amendment. This is a major shift that could undermine constitutional rights.
  2. There’s a push to redefine who gets to be considered an American, aiming to dismiss the citizenship of those seen as 'internal enemies.' This could lead to wider discrimination based on immigration status.
  3. The government may use a state of emergency to justify these actions, hoping people will support these measures during crises. This tactic might be used gradually to erode established rights and norms.

The Frankfurters, again; Talking Jan 6th on TTSGB; Rogin on McCarthy and his Frenemies; Thiel's Esoterica

17 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Current Events Government Media Society
  1. The author is set to release a new column in a publication called 'The Last Days of Discourse', hinting at some critical discussions ahead. It's exciting to see new ideas coming out in this column!
  2. There is a new page for the author's book 'When the Clock Broke' available for pre-order in the UK, which is a great opportunity for British readers to get it early. It's cool that the book has the same nice cover but includes extra information for readers in the UK.
  3. The author shared insights on a podcast about January 6th, reflecting on its impact and how people might be forgetting about it. It's important to keep discussing such events to remember their significance in our society.

Trump's Neo-Fusionism

70 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conservatism Populism Libertarianism Political theory Coalitions
  1. Trump's new approach, called Neo-Fusionism, mixes both national populism and libertarian ideas. This means he supports average people's values while also favoring some libertarian policies.
  2. There's a conflict between wanting a strong government to push Trump's agenda and the libertarian wish to reduce government power. This creates challenges in balancing these different beliefs.
  3. Understanding the different thinkers, like Rothbard and Francis, helps to explain the complexities and contradictions in Trump's coalition and overall politics.

Thank You!

60 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Faith Community Celebration
  1. The newsletter has been successful and is about to celebrate four years. The writer is grateful for the support from readers during this time.
  2. Starting the newsletter was a big risk after losing a job and facing rejections, but it turned out to be a great decision.
  3. The writer aims to keep providing understanding and entertainment to the readers in the future, especially during challenging times.

Testing the Fascism Thesis

79 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political theory Authoritarianism Trumpism Democracy
  1. The fascism thesis is viewed as a framework to analyze Trump's behavior. It can help predict actions but must remain flexible to be valid.
  2. Key predictions include the potential for state-backed violence against political opponents and the suspension of civil liberties. If these things happen, it would strengthen the fascism theory.
  3. The reaction of the Biden administration to Trump shows challenges in maintaining democratic norms without appearing hypocritical. It's a balancing act that can complicate democratic practices.

Type of Guy studies; MAGA misfit toys; Adorno on the Mangiones; An old-time boss's farewell to politics

35 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Fashion Literature Film Media
  1. The author is excited about their book receiving recognition, appearing on several year-end best lists, which they didn't expect.
  2. They discuss the relevance of the film 'Taxi Driver' and encourage listeners to check out a screening of 'Ronin', highlighting its quality as a thriller.
  3. For those interested in art, fashion, and culture, the author recommends checking out a Substack called 'Selling Out' by Natasha Stagg.

Dawn in Syria; "On Violence;" Hegel on Revolution; "Say Nothing" on FX

41 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Revolution Middle East International relations Political theory Conflict
  1. The fall of Assad in Syria brings hope after years of a brutal civil war. People are celebrating and reuniting, showing how powerful and inspiring change can be.
  2. Even the strongest dictatorships can crumble quickly when the people rise up. This shows that real power comes from the consent of the people, not just force.
  3. The situation in Syria reminds us that democracy is about the people's will. When people collectively say 'no' to oppression, they can create significant change.

Another Gripe

55 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Criticism Media Politics History
  1. Responding to negative reviews can seem petty, but sometimes it's necessary to clear up misunderstandings. It's important to address when someone's critique misses the point of your work.
  2. Understanding the tone and context of writing is crucial for meaningful critiques. Misinterpreting jokes or irony can lead to completely off-base reviews.
  3. Critics should be careful when making claims about an author's political views or arguments. Misreading can reveal more about the critic's biases than the author's actual stance.

Will the streets run red?

47 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political violence Authoritarianism Electoral Politics
  1. There are groups in the U.S. that share some ideas with fascism but have not become fully fascist. Their use of street violence is more common in many political movements than we think.
  2. Street fighters in right-wing movements have not been as successful recently. They've struggled to connect with mainstream politics and have not organized effectively after events like January 6.
  3. Fascist movements can emerge in specific environments but need strong organization to thrive. Right now, there aren’t enough dedicated groups ready to act on their beliefs, despite a rise in far-right ideas.

The Death of Yahya Sinwar

80 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict Terrorism International relations Human Rights
  1. Yahya Sinwar's death has sparked mixed reactions, highlighting the ongoing cycle of violence in the region. While some celebrate his death, it won't bring lasting victory to Israel.
  2. Sinwar's legacy is marked by violence and suffering, particularly among the Palestinians he claimed to fight for. His methods often led to more harm than good for his people.
  3. The killing of Sinwar and others like him does not justify the widespread loss of innocent lives. It's crucial to remember that all individuals affected by this conflict have their own stories and humanity.

A Night at the Garden

67 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Populism Media influence Cultural critique
  1. Trump's public persona is a lot like a pro wrestler. He swings between being a hero and a villain, and this theatrical style draws people in.
  2. There's a connection between Trump's political events and wrestling shows. Both aim to entertain and provoke strong reactions from the audience.
  3. The idea of justice in wrestling often relies on breaking rules for a satisfying outcome. Similarly, Trump's approach to politics breaks norms, appealing to those who feel overlooked or humiliated.

No One Knows What is Gonna Happen

56 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Political Commentary Campaign strategies Voter Behavior
  1. Predicting the future, especially in politics, is really tough. Many so-called experts often get it wrong, and people remember their mistakes.
  2. Polls can be confusing and don't always give a clear picture. They sometimes just repeat the idea that things could go either way without saying much.
  3. Trump's popularity and campaign are complicated. While he has a loyal base, many people also dislike him, making the outcome uncertain.

Making Civic Life Thick Again; Rashid Khalidi in Haaretz; Remembering Canarsie

29 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Civic engagement Social movements National Identity
  1. Political parties need to focus on building stronger local organizations to reconnect with working-class voters. This means creating spaces where people can gather and engage in civic life together.
  2. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is complex and cannot be solved easily. Understanding both sides and their histories is crucial to discussing potential solutions.
  3. Using violent tactics in political struggles can backfire, especially when the opposing side feels victimized. It's important to think about the long-term effects of such strategies.