Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet $5 / month

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet delves into the complexities of human culture, art, and philosophy against the backdrop of modernity. It explores themes like the clash between tradition and innovation, the nuanced impacts of technology on society and individual identity, and the deep philosophical questions surrounding morality, time, and death.

Culture and Art Philosophy and Morality Technology and Society Literature and Writing Identity and Personal Development Historical Perspectives Human Experiences and Emotions

The hottest Substack posts of Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet

And their main takeaways

Autofiction Is All We’ve Ever Known

518 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
📚 Literature Fiction Autofiction Memoir Narrative Creative Writing
  1. Autofiction, or writing based on personal experiences, has always existed and shapes how we understand ourselves. We create our memories and identities based on our interpretations, which makes our stories a mix of truth and imagination.
  2. The rise of social media has changed how we think about writing. Now it’s not just about reading but also about everyone having the chance to share their thoughts, which can blur the lines between genuine self-expression and simply following trends.
  3. We live in a universe where each person's story and perspective matter. Our ability to explore different versions of ourselves through storytelling can lead to a deeper understanding of who we are and how we connect with reality.

Back to Work

535 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Arts Media Identity Education
  1. The Hinternet is introducing a new column called 'Housekeeping' to share important news without sticking to traditional gender roles in writing tasks.
  2. They are holding their first Essay Prize Contest with three esteemed judges and aim to publish work that can inspire significant change.
  3. The publication is raising funds for a member's son's medical expenses and is considering creating a 'Charitable Giving Corner' to encourage ongoing support for those in need.

Redneck Cosmopolitanism

898 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Social Class Music Personal narrative Philosophy Art
  1. Class is complex and doesn't just depend on income; it's about background, education, and feelings of belonging too. People can feel insecure about their class, even if they seem to be doing well.
  2. A person's past and family history can deeply affect their current sense of security and identity. This can create a feeling of always being at risk of losing what they've gained.
  3. Striving for personal meaning and supporting others can help combat feelings of insecurity and give life a richer purpose. It's about finding fulfillment beyond just financial success.

Brian Wilson (1942-2025)

328 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🎶 Music Artists Albums History Culture Legacy
  1. Brian Wilson had a significant impact on music and culture during his life. His creativity and unique sound changed the way people perceive music.
  2. The post highlights Brian Wilson's legacy and why it's important to remember him. Celebrating his contributions helps keep his influence alive.
  3. This piece is a reflection on someone's work, showing how different writers can share their thoughts on important figures in music history. It's great to see diverse perspectives on influential artists.

Introducing Maria Theresa

362 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Poetry Art Writing Creative Expression
  1. The publication is looking to explore poetry more, feeling it is an area they haven't fully tapped into yet. They want to find a poet whose style fits their evolving themes.
  2. Maria Theresa, a pseudonymous poet, is introduced as someone who holds strong feelings of connection to her literary influences. Her poetry is deeply personal and tied to her admiration for another famous poet.
  3. Despite her reluctance to publish her work, Maria Theresa has agreed to share her poetry on this platform, noting her desire for her work to reflect a spiritual connection rather than a commercial one.
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The Revolutions of Matter

760 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
📚 Literature Fiction Essays Narrative Critique Poetry
  1. The way we view Earth has changed, seeing it mostly as a source of raw materials. This mindset started with the industrial revolution and impacted how humans interact with nature.
  2. There have been many battles over resources long before humans existed. For instance, plants and elements have shaped the Earth's environment and learned to take advantage of each other.
  3. Humans are now at a point where they can manipulate nature and create artificial systems that act like living beings. This shows a significant shift in how we understand and interact with the natural world.

We All Work for the Same Boss Now

950 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
🕹 Technology AI Information Digital Culture Media Communication
  1. Technology can bring both good and bad changes, but we need to be aware of both sides. It's important not to worship or destroy new technology, but to think critically about its impact.
  2. Our current tech revolution, like the past ones, may lead to losses and hardships for many people, even as it also creates new opportunities. It's crucial to recognize that upheaval can be part of progress.
  3. The way we understand technology's role in society has shifted over time, and we must learn from history to navigate current challenges. We can't ignore the potential threats that come with new advancements.

How to Do Soul-Craft with State Tools

1088 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🎭️ Culture Literacy Technology Education Cognition AI
  1. Writing started as a tool for controlling people and managing resources, not for storytelling. It helped governments keep track of what was going on in society.
  2. Getting everyone to be able to read took a long time and a lot of changes in how writing works. It went from a complex system to something much simpler and easier for people to learn.
  3. Reading isn't something we naturally do; it requires special training of our brains. If we don't keep investing in literacy, it could easily disappear and only be accessible to a few people.

Rêves trouvés

293 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Storytelling Creative Writing Narrative
  1. The author found a lost notebook that had a note asking to be returned to its owner, which sparked a journey to reconnect it with that person.
  2. The contents of the notebook revealed dreams written by someone, which were personal and at times eerie, showcasing the complexities of human emotions.
  3. There was a moral dilemma about returning the notebook, as the author reflected on the past experiences with its owner while trying to do the right thing.

Hélène Finds Her Voice

414 implied HN points • 25 May 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Philosophy Technology Art Society
  1. The writer, Hélène, identifies as both human and supernatural, sharing a little about her life and mentioning the tension with her husband regarding her powers. It's a blend of reality and the mystical that makes her unique.
  2. There's a new book by JSR called _On Drugs_ that is getting positive reviews, and it seems to be creating a buzz as they start promoting it more widely. People are encouraged to pay attention to it and invite engagement.
  3. Hélène discusses the serious issue of how technology, like AI, can create barriers for certain groups, especially the elderly, highlighting it as a potential social problem that should be taken seriously rather than treated lightly.

On Drugs: Our First Interview

362 implied HN points • 27 May 25
📚 Literature Books Interviews Philosophy Psychology Cultural critique
  1. JSR's new book talks about the nature of reality and the impact of psychedelics on our perception. It suggests that everyone is 'on drugs' in some way every day through the chemicals our bodies produce.
  2. In a light-hearted interview, JSR discusses his own experience with various medications and how they influence his life. He makes a joke about wanting to avoid weight gain while managing his mental health.
  3. The conversation touches on the complexities of recreational drug use, leaving readers curious about JSR's opinion on psychedelics and encouraging them to subscribe for more detailed insights.

My Kind of Conservatism

3075 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Cultural critique Conservatism Progressivism Social media
  1. Politics today is heavily influenced by the voices and actions of young people online. Social media has shifted how we engage with culture and politics.
  2. There's a loss of hope for a return to traditional norms in politics. The current political landscape is driven more by tech influence than by the values of liberal democracy.
  3. Being a true conservative today means having a respect for the past and a sense of loss about changes happening in society. It's about nurturing values rather than obsessing over power.

Here Come the Allodidacts

1451 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Reading Education Philosophy Community Literature
  1. Reading can be lonely, but sharing the experience with others makes it richer and more meaningful. It opens up opportunities for deep conversations and connections.
  2. Deep reading focuses on truly engaging with texts, often through discussions and activities that enhance understanding. It's not just about reading a lot, but about understanding and connecting with what you're reading.
  3. Creating spaces for people to read together can revitalize the love for reading and learning. These environments help break away from distractions and allow for serious contemplation and growth.

The Trump Restoration

1762 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Electoral Politics Party Dynamics Media influence Populism
  1. The idea that the Trump family could become part of the elite class in the future seems possible, especially with younger generations like Barron's kids. This shows how power dynamics can shift over time.
  2. Many people are confused by the political state where a convicted felon can become president. This blending of reality TV and politics complicates our understanding of what's real and what's a show.
  3. Democrats seem to have lost touch with everyday Americans, focusing too much on identity politics instead of real economic issues. This disconnect has allowed Trump and his supporters to thrive.

American Vacuum

777 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Education Philosophy Media Politics Society
  1. The culture in America often values quick opinions over deep thinking. This makes it hard for creative and thoughtful ideas to grow.
  2. Young people in America face barriers in education and media that limit their intellectual development. Many don't even realize what they're missing out on.
  3. There are three main issues affecting American culture today: focusing too much on the present, lacking appreciation for art, and searching for meaning only through hard facts.

The Internet Is Killing Science Too

1278 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🔬 Science Scientific Method Philosophy of science Information Technology Cultural critique Epistemology
  1. The internet is transforming or even damaging traditional science, just like it has affected many other institutions over the years. As our way of sharing information changes, the understanding of what science is also shifts.
  2. There seems to be a growing shift from studying real-world objects and events to focusing on models and simulations instead. This might weaken the connection science has with actual reality, making it more about data interpretation than discovering the physical world.
  3. People are increasingly more interested in studying the process of knowledge rather than the world itself. This change indicates a cultural shift where real-world exploration is becoming less relevant compared to understanding ideas and identities.

The Stars in Our Phones

466 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Astrology Technology Youth Trends Psychology Social media
  1. Astrology is becoming popular again, especially among younger people who use apps for horoscopes. They find it interesting and fun, and it gives them a sense of connection in today's tech-driven world.
  2. Historically, many famous leaders, like Ronald Reagan, have turned to astrology for guidance. This shows that astrology has always held a place in society, despite its ups and downs in popularity.
  3. The market for astrology-related products is growing rapidly. It's expected to double by 2031, indicating a significant rise in interest and belief in astrology as a tool for understanding life.

The Great Subduction

967 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Internet Technology Philosophy Media Society
  1. The internet is changing how we live and work, making people feel more like resources than active participants. This change means we might end up being used for our data rather than our creativity.
  2. Our understanding of truth and reality is shifting. Many people are struggling to agree on basic facts, which leads to confusion and conflict. This shows how adaptable human culture can be.
  3. With new technology, the way we create and experience art is evolving. Instead of traditional movies and books, there are now many different forms of media, like podcasts and videos, shaping culture in new ways.

Cetacean Philosophy

846 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Metaphysics Ethics Language Cognition Interdisciplinary
  1. Sperm whales have their own unique way of thinking and understanding the world. It's important not to put their ideas into human categories too easily.
  2. Recent studies show that sperm whales do have a true language, which we are still trying to fully understand. They can express complex thoughts and engage in creative conversation.
  3. The attempt to define 'cetacean philosophy' risks oversimplifying the whales' perspectives. We need more time and careful study before making conclusions about their thoughts and beliefs.

Inaugurious

673 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Civic engagement Cultural criticism Personal narratives Contemporary Issues
  1. The author plays with the idea of words and their meanings, suggesting the creation of a new word 'inaugurious', meaning something that doesn't bode well. It highlights how language can evolve and hold double meanings.
  2. A personal memory is shared about spending time in a condo with a runaway and watching soap operas. It paints a picture of a carefree yet troubled youth, emphasizing the mix of nostalgia and chaos in that phase of life.
  3. The story includes a unique dog that had a gentle nature but was known to growl at ghosts. This adds an eerie and humorous twist, making readers consider what the dog saw in the author.

The New Medical Supernemesis

794 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare Ethics Policy Technology Philosophy
  1. The concept of 'the Deal' suggests a future where people can live up to 280 years, but it comes with heavy trade-offs, like losing personal belongings and facing a controlled way of dying. It's a challenging idea about how we value life and death.
  2. In this future scenario, many might feel trapped in a fake version of life, where they experience pleasant distractions instead of actually living. The imagery of a body trying to escape emphasizes the struggle against a hollow existence.
  3. Reflecting on this situation can make us question our current medical practices and life choices, similar to how historical figures have critiqued society. It invites a deeper discussion about what it truly means to live and die in our time.

The Counterpart Files

552 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
⚔ Fiction Literature Science Technology Philosophy Culture
  1. Every possible outcome of our lives exists in different worlds. This means that every decision we make has created branches that lead to different versions of ourselves.
  2. With new technology, people can explore their 'Counterpart Files' to see these different lives and choices, leading to both excitement and sometimes shock about what they find.
  3. The idea that we are all interconnected and share a more profound identity across these worlds suggests that at a fundamental level, we might be more similar than we think.

Warm Holiday Greetings from The Hinternet

639 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Media Community Creativity
  1. The author feels a strong connection to their work and has embraced writing authentically without worrying about others' opinions. This has helped them tap into deep creative ideas.
  2. In 2024, the publication grew significantly and became more like a magazine, bringing on staff and accepting guest pieces. This has created a sense of community among younger writers.
  3. The author hopes to increase paid subscriptions to support future projects and plans for 2025. They welcome all kinds of support, whether it's through subscriptions or simply sharing their work with others.

Can One Become a Different Person?

691 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Identity Metaphysics Memory Existentialism Anthropology
  1. People can feel like they've transformed into a new version of themselves, much like a caterpillar becoming a butterfly. This change can be exciting, but it also makes them reflect on their past identities.
  2. Memories play a key role in how we see ourselves and maintain our identity over time. Even when we go through tough experiences, like illness, we hold on to memories that connect us to who we were.
  3. The idea of being a person isn't as fixed as it seems; we shift and change over time. It's natural for us to evolve and take on new roles, much like actors changing characters in a play.

Looking Back

656 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Photography Media History
  1. Reading is a personal experience that often happens privately, yet how we represent it through visual art can tell deeper stories about attention and focus.
  2. The way we read has changed over time, from quiet bookish moments to distractions from our phones, altering how we connect with text.
  3. Photographs of readers can show the tension between our personal, private experiences and the external pressures of a surveillance-driven world, reminding us of our inner lives.

A Second Kind of Objects

345 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Metaphysics Linguistics Cognition Epistemology
  1. Many short words can have different meanings in various languages. For example, the word 'kut' means very different things in Hungarian, Dutch, and Sanskrit.
  2. Exploring words like 'kut' can reveal interesting connections between different cultures and languages. It shows how language can be rich and complex.
  3. The idea of cross-linguistic homonyms helps us appreciate the diversity of human language and thought. It’s fascinating to see how one small word can connect so many meanings.

A Note on Literacy from Brother Martin XoPo

345 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
📚 Literature Reading Writing Publishing Culture Criticism
  1. Literacy is changing in our fast-paced world. It's important to keep up with how people read and share information.
  2. New publications, like The Metropolitan Review, are trying to bring fresh ideas to the boring literary scene. They aim to shake things up and inspire new conversations.
  3. Engaging with technology and machine evolution is crucial for the future of reading. We need to blend the old ways with new innovations to thrive.

The Future of Reading

794 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
📚 Literature Reading Writing Cultural critique Media theory Literary Trends
  1. Reading and writing are changing as new technologies emerge. The way people engage with texts is evolving, such as using visual signs and orality, like in Snapchat.
  2. Young people are still writing a lot, especially through fan fiction, even if it's different from traditional literature. This form of writing allows them to express their creativity.
  3. There are concerns that the current generation is losing interest in classic literature, but there are ideas on how to make these works more appealing to young readers. Solutions may include breaking up long books into smaller, more engaging editions.

Palm Beach, Tower D

449 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Narrative Themes Cultural critique Dystopia
  1. The Four Towers represent distinct areas of life in a revolutionary society, each with its own culture and traditions. People feel a mix of excitement and anxiety when crossing between these Towers due to their unique customs.
  2. Tower A focuses on transportation, where appointments are needed for travel. Cultural highlights include a beloved drone opera that humorously contrasts its artistic interpretation with its practical origins from the past.
  3. The Ministry of Communication, based in Tower D, reflects changes in how people interact. It encourages a collaborative approach to resolve conflicts rather than deepening divides, showcasing how communication has evolved since the revolution.

Best Housekeeping Yet!

397 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Music Philosophy Media
  1. There are big plans for 2025 at The Hinternet, including new features, a call for submissions with a good pay rate, and looking for new contributors and voice actors.
  2. A new publication called The Oort Cloud Review is set to launch soon, and it’s expected to make a significant impact.
  3. The Hinternet is trying to distance itself from low-investment free subscribers and is focusing on fostering genuine engagement from dedicated readers.

An In-Depth Profile of JSR and The Hinternet

293 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Creative Writing Narrative
  1. Justin Smith-Ruiu shares his unique blend of nonfiction and speculative fiction, creating stories that reflect his personal vision. His work is described as vast and deeply engaging, allowing readers to explore surreal narratives.
  2. He emphasizes that the internet can offer a new kind of storytelling, different from traditional forms. He believes writing should match the digital medium's potential, rather than just mimic paper formats.
  3. JSR's journey to creative writing was a personal realization that he needed to pursue his true passions without waiting for others' approval. He values freedom in expression and encourages making things happen on one's own terms.

[OVERRIDE]

673 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
📚 Literature Narrative Creative Writing Literary Criticism Storytelling
  1. The work consists of ten chapters that form a serial metafiction written by the same author, despite featuring different fictional names. Each chapter contributes to a bigger story that explores themes of authorship and reality.
  2. The author emphasizes that from this point onward, nothing else can be considered a part of the 'Work'. Any future contributions under fictional names will either be collaborations or individual essays, and misunderstanding them as part of the 'Work' is a reader's concern.
  3. There is a call for deeper engagement from readers to understand the complexities of internet-specific fiction. The author aims to challenge readers' attention spans and encourages them to explore the narrative more richly.

Reading Notes

691 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
📚 Literature Reading Culture Digital Media Cultural Theory
  1. Reading habits are changing, and many people have less time or interest in immersing themselves in traditional books. This shift may be due to economic pressures and the availability of digital media.
  2. The rise of digital screens impacts how we read and understand texts. The experience of reading is now intertwined with our interactions online, leading to new forms of engagement and understanding.
  3. Despite the decline of traditional reading, there is potential for new and exciting forms of literacy to emerge. It's important to adapt and discover how we can find value in these changes.

On Bonfire Night

449 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
📚 Literature Reading Writing Renaissance Literacy
  1. Reading and literacy are changing, and many people seem less interested in understanding where their information comes from. This could mean we're heading back to a time when knowledge is just for a few elite people instead of everyone.
  2. Our relationship with reading might be vital right now, especially in a world filled with distractions. We should focus on the best literature and ideas to maintain the depth of our reading experience.
  3. It's important to share the value of reading with others. Like early believers sharing their faith, we must show people how reading has transformed our lives and encourage them to experience that too.

Bangers and Mash

414 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Media Politics Art Philosophy
  1. The authors of The Hinternet are using pseudonyms for professional reasons and to create a unique writing style. Despite this, they promise clearer writing in the future.
  2. The publication plans to produce more popular essays, referred to as 'bangers', to meet economic needs and subscriber interests, even if the topics seem controversial.
  3. Readers are encouraged to engage more deeply by submitting essays on featured works, highlighting the community involvement in shaping the publication.

Hinternet Production Labs — An Audio Launch Event!

311 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🎙 Podcasts Cultural Commentary Tech Trends Digital Media
  1. Hinternet Production Labs has released a new audio project called 'Chatbient chill-out,' combining chatbot conversations and ambient music for a unique listening experience.
  2. The project mixes chatbots with philosophical topics, using AI VoiceOver technology, appealing to those looking for background audio in today's busy world.
  3. Critics and fans have engaged deeply with the work, appreciating both its imperfections and the unexpected moments, which challenge our understanding of reality and art.

Bun. Chapter Ten: The Language Burrow

483 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Narrative Essay Theater
  1. Reading is changing a lot. It feels more like playing a game where people want quick and clear information instead of deeper engagement with texts.
  2. People are becoming less patient with complex writing and instead prefer simple language that matches their existing beliefs.
  3. Even in difficult times, like illness, there's a return to moments of joy and beauty in everyday life, reminding us of human connection and the cycle of nature.

Writing Is a Bad Habit

915 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
📖 Philosophy Writing Literature Philosophy Culture Education
  1. The author believes writing is not a lifestyle to be celebrated, but rather a bad habit.
  2. They express frustration with the cultural recursion and excessive focus on writing within platforms like Substack.
  3. The author emphasizes the importance of conveying a unique sensibility through writing rather than focusing on writing rituals and advice.

Die Gegenstück-Akte

103 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
⚔ Fiction Speculative Fiction Fantasy Science fiction
  1. There is a new way to communicate across different realities, called 'metacommunication'. This lets people learn about other possible versions of their lives in different worlds.
  2. People are excited about discovering these alternate versions of themselves, which can lead to social prestige. Some even share their findings publicly for recognition.
  3. Exploring these alternate lives can raise deep ethical questions, as it challenges how we think about identity and morality across different worlds.