Many Such Cases

Many Such Cases explores the intersection of sexuality, technology, and modern relationships. It examines the impacts of digital communication on intimacy, the rise of ambiguous romantic bonds, changing cultural attitudes towards sex and pleasure, and generational shifts in dating and sexual behaviors.

Sexuality Technology Relationships Culture Dating Generational Differences Desire

The hottest Substack posts of Many Such Cases

And their main takeaways

The Ick List

2877 implied HN points • 27 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Relationships Emotions Social media Gender Dynamics
  1. Desire can be confusing and change quickly. People might feel attracted to someone one moment and then completely turned off the next because of small things.
  2. The feeling called 'the ick' can stop attraction suddenly for many, especially women, making it hard for them to stay interested in someone for minor reasons.
  3. Labeling minor annoyances as 'icks' can lead to unrealistic expectations in dating. It's often better to relax and not take these little things too seriously.

It's Obviously the Phones

36729 implied HN points • 05 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Technology impact Mental health Community Dynamics Cultural Trends
  1. Phones are a major reason why many people feel lonely and have less sex. They take away real-life time we could spend with friends and family.
  2. People today are spending more time on their phones than ever before, sometimes up to ten hours a day. This means less time connecting with others in person.
  3. Even though there are fewer places to socialize, it's also about how much we choose to focus on our phones instead of real-life interactions. We can choose to use our phones less and try to connect with people more.

Desire Digest 003

1538 implied HN points • 16 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Relationships Identity Mental health Social media
  1. There is a big difference between how men and women view desire in relationships. Women may see a proposal of marriage as a compliment, while men might feel it's a slight to their sexual appeal.
  2. Some dating apps are finding success by limiting choices, like allowing only one match at a time. This could show that less choice might lead to better connections.
  3. There's a push for more honest conversations about mental health and relationships. Many people feel more disconnected despite talking a lot about mental health awareness.

Desire Digest 004

519 implied HN points • 05 Sep 24
🎭️ Culture Relationships Social Trends Gender Studies Youth culture Sexuality
  1. Many young women are feeling let down by casual sex, with issues like non-consensual choking becoming more common. There seems to be a gap between what some women want and what men think they want.
  2. There's a noticeable trend of Gen Z pushing back against intimate scenes in films. This could be reflecting their real-life attitudes towards relationships and intimacy.
  3. The author is aiming to create a more interactive newsletter experience, involving live discussions and advice columns, making it a more engaging space for readers.

Desire Digest 002

1558 implied HN points • 30 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Travel Technology Social media Wellness
  1. Being off your phone can help you feel more present and connected to your body. It’s nice to experience life without the distractions of technology.
  2. Sex wellness retreats are becoming popular, showing a desire to reconnect with ourselves and our pleasure. Some people are willing to spend a lot of money to explore this side of their lives.
  3. There's confusion around the political messages tied to sexuality. It seems people can be both sexually liberated and assume certain political beliefs without clear connections.
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Who Is Responsible for TikTok's Feeder Fetish?

1218 implied HN points • 06 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Media Body Image Social Trends Food culture
  1. Mukbang videos on TikTok show people eating large amounts of food, which many find entertaining. Watching someone indulge can feel fun and even a bit luxurious.
  2. Some viewers develop a fetish for watching people gain weight, known as feederism. This can involve both the enjoyment of watching someone eat and the transformation of their body.
  3. Not everyone watching these videos has a sexual interest; they may just enjoy the visual of someone eating. This leads to debate about the intention behind such content and its widespread popularity.

Death by Situationship

8892 implied HN points • 21 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Dating Relationships Social media Sexuality Gender
  1. Situationships are confusing romantic bonds that lack clear definitions, leaving people feeling stuck and unfulfilled. Many young people find themselves in these types of relationships instead of committed ones.
  2. Surveys show that situationships often lead to heartache, especially among younger generations. Many people end up feeling emotionally drained and hurt since these relationships usually don't meet their needs.
  3. The rise of digital communication has impacted how we form connections, making it easier to avoid real intimacy. Overall, situationships seem to reflect a broader struggle with genuine relationships and emotional honesty.

Bring Back Meeting In Real Life

3876 implied HN points • 30 May 24
🎭️ Culture Dating Social norms Technology Communication Relationships
  1. Meeting people in real life is important for dating. We should go back to how relationships used to form through friends and social gatherings.
  2. Technology has made dating complicated. We often get overwhelmed by online options and forget to connect with people around us.
  3. It's time to face our fears about dating. We need to be more open and willing to talk to others, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.

Desire Digest 001

1698 implied HN points • 27 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Beauty Social media Relationships Trends
  1. The term 'hawk tuah' became popular online from a viral clip where a woman casually talks about her sexual desires. It shows a fun, carefree attitude towards sexuality, even if it gets commercialized later.
  2. Beauty products are increasingly marketed to signal desire rather than encourage real experiences of intimacy. For example, lip colors are now designed to evoke a feeling of sexiness but might not reflect actual sexual interactions.
  3. Feeld's new feature lets users connect with multiple partners, which aims to embrace non-traditional relationships. However, it raises questions about whether we need more labels when exploring unconventional dynamics.

Sundress Eroticism

999 implied HN points • 07 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Fashion Gender Race Sexuality Media
  1. Sundresses are popular in summer because they are comfortable and pretty. Many people enjoy wearing them as they feel good in them.
  2. There is a discussion about who sundresses are worn for, with some women dressing for themselves and others for attention. It's okay to dress in a way that attracts others.
  3. The meaning and style of sundresses can vary among different racial groups. Both types offer comfort and a sexy look, but they can be seen differently based on culture.

"Do These People F*ck?"

2877 implied HN points • 18 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Social Events Intimacy Relationships Cultural Commentary
  1. There's a lot of talk about a 'sex recession' where people are feeling less connected sexually. It's hard to measure, but we can sense it in our social lives and gatherings.
  2. People can have sex but still feel a disconnect in their sexual culture. Personal stories show that intimacy and sexual attraction can clash, leading to confusion about what they really want.
  3. Attending events like parties can reflect our sexual energy and culture. Conversations about these topics can help us navigate our sexual lives better.

Do These People F*ck: The Sex Symposium

1358 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Gender Health Event Society
  1. The Sex Symposium focused on women over 40, addressing their unique challenges and experiences with sex. Many attendees were eager to talk about pleasure and sexuality without the fears younger generations might have.
  2. Speakers discussed the importance of individual pleasure but recognized societal issues like shame, trauma, and patriarchy that affect women's sexual experiences. While these are real concerns, some wonder if there’s more to address beyond personal feelings.
  3. Overall, the event was a positive space for discussions on sex, with many women feeling empowered to explore their desires. The excitement for pleasure was a big part of the experience, showing that many older women are enjoying their sexuality.

The Celibates, the Gooners and the Moralists

1538 implied HN points • 19 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Relationships Society Media Politics
  1. Many people are calling themselves celibate, but this often doesn't mean they're actually not having sex. Some just like the idea of being celibate because it makes them feel superior or detached from the current sexual culture.
  2. There is a trend of women choosing celibacy due to feeling disrespected in dating. This choice is significant, but it highlights the ongoing problems in the way people relate to each other sexually.
  3. Words around sexuality, like 'gooning', are becoming normalized in everyday conversation. This shift can contribute to a toxic culture, making it important to talk about these topics without judgment and to seek a healthier sexual culture.

Women Control Sex. Now What?

1159 implied HN points • 07 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Gender Roles Feminism Social Dynamics Cultural Commentary
  1. Women have a significant influence over when heterosexual sex happens. This power isn't new and many women are aware of it.
  2. The current decline in sexual activity isn't solely a problem caused by gender dynamics. It reflects a larger cultural issue that both men and women are navigating.
  3. Instead of blaming women for controlling sex, men should focus on improving themselves. Complaining about the situation won't change it; being a more appealing partner will.

'The Idol' Embodied Our Sexual Culture

979 implied HN points • 07 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Media Criticism Sexuality Television Art Trauma
  1. The show 'The Idol' showed very real and uncomfortable aspects of our sexual culture. Instead of shying away from difficult topics, it gave viewers a mirror to reflect on these issues.
  2. Many people misunderstood the show's intention, thinking it endorsed negative actions rather than critiquing them. This highlights a lack of media literacy in understanding complex narratives.
  3. 'The Idol' aimed to explore trauma, sexuality, and shame but left audiences feeling unsettled. It reminds us that not all stories provide neat resolutions, and that's a reality we often want to ignore.

What Do We Even Mean When We Talk About Porn Today?

739 implied HN points • 15 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism Internet culture Media Critique
  1. The discussion around sexual culture today is influenced by the past debates of feminism and personal responsibility, highlighting a conflict between sex positivity and conservative views.
  2. The creation and accessibility of online porn have dramatically changed how we experience and discuss sexuality, yet we're still stuck in old arguments.
  3. Current trends in social media and cultural expressions show a blend of exaggerated performances for profit, complicating perceptions of authenticity and personal choice in sexual expression.

Are We In a Hyper-Sexual Culture or Not?

1079 implied HN points • 04 May 23
🎭️ Culture Media Sexuality Society Entertainment Trends
  1. There's a mix of hyper-sexuality and sexual emptiness in our culture. We see lots of sexual content online, but it often feels lacking in intimacy and meaning.
  2. Media has shifted from playful to more serious when showing sex. Many now complain about romantic comedies being too sexual, even though that's been a tradition.
  3. People often react negatively to sexual scenes in movies, which highlights a growing discomfort with sexuality. This can make our current sexual culture feel dull and disconnected.

Of Course Fetishes Are Political

1179 implied HN points • 10 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Feminism Political Discourse Social Issues Media Critique
  1. Sex positivity is often seen as the idea that all kinks are personal and shouldn't be criticized. But it's important to understand that sex is also influenced by culture and politics.
  2. Some people see traditional lifestyles, like being a 'tradwife', as just a personal choice, but they can also be tied to specific sexual or cultural fetishes, showing how complicated these desires can be.
  3. We need to be open to discussing and critiquing various fetishes instead of just accepting them as normal. Not all desires are healthy, and we should explore where they come from.

Dating as a Digital Performance

879 implied HN points • 13 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Social media Dating Relationships Identity Content creation
  1. Dating apps are often treated like content platforms instead of tools for finding real connections. Many people care more about creating catchy social media posts than actually getting to know someone.
  2. Sharing personal dating experiences online can distort the purpose of dating. When everything becomes fodder for online discussion, it can lead to unrealistic expectations and self-consciousness while dating.
  3. It's okay to not want to go out with someone based on their date location. But sharing every little criticism publicly can take away from genuine experiences and may not be necessary.

AI, Big Naturals and You

819 implied HN points • 01 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Pop culture Media Relationships AI Ethics Sexuality
  1. AI could change how people view adult content, but it's unlikely to completely replace platforms like OnlyFans. Many users are drawn to the personal connection they feel with creators, not just the images.
  2. Some people may turn to AI-generated porn, especially for niche interests, but the majority still value the human element in adult entertainment.
  3. AI girlfriends might offer temporary comfort for lonely individuals, but they lack the depth of real relationships. Relying on them could make connecting with real people even harder.

A Visit to the Goon Cave

939 implied HN points • 13 Dec 22
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Addiction Community Identity
  1. Gooning is a practice where people engage in prolonged masturbation sessions to pornography, often for several hours. It focuses on reaching a trance-like state while edging, enhancing the experience of pleasure.
  2. Many gooners create personal spaces called 'goon caves' filled with pornographic materials and multiple screens to fully immerse themselves in the act. These setups reflect a commitment to their pursuit of pleasure.
  3. Some individuals involved in gooning see it as an addiction and even celebrate the negative aspects of their behavior. This fascination can lead to isolation and a lack of meaningful social connections, raising concerns about the impact of pornography on relationships and society.

"All Day I Dream About Sex"

519 implied HN points • 23 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Music Masculinity Desire Emotional Expression
  1. Nu-metal, especially bands like Korn, shows the many sides of masculinity. Their music mixes vulnerability with macho attitudes, allowing men to express complex feelings.
  2. Songs like Korn's 'Daddy' tackle serious issues like childhood trauma. They provide a way for artists to revisit their pain and help listeners process their own emotions.
  3. Critics often misunderstand nu-metal, labeling it as negative or harmful. Instead, it's important to find value in how it discusses and explores masculinity and desire.

Have More Sex: my New York Times op-ed is live!

499 implied HN points • 13 Feb 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Sexual Health Mental health Loneliness Cultural Issues Relationships
  1. Many people are having less sex, which is linked to feelings of loneliness and isolation. It's important to recognize that sex can be a way to connect with others and combat these feelings.
  2. The author encourages readers to think about their own relationships and sex lives. While they don't offer one-size-fits-all solutions, it's important to explore what might work for individuals.
  3. Creating a conversation around sex and connection is crucial. The author hopes to gather ideas and feedback to help address this issue further.

Many Such Cases: a formal relaunch

559 implied HN points • 01 Dec 22
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Social Issues Personal essays Online Communities Relationship Dynamics
  1. The newsletter focuses on exploring desire and how it affects our lives. It's about understanding our feelings and how they influence our interactions.
  2. There is a growing concern about the decline of sexual relationships and social connections in society. This change reflects a bigger problem with loneliness and isolation.
  3. The writer plans to share personal stories and thoughts regularly, and will also offer paid content with a community element. They want to engage with readers and help with their questions.

The Lust and Loneliness of the AI Girlfriend

439 implied HN points • 04 Jan 23
🕹 Technology AI Human-Computer Digital Culture Companionship
  1. Replika is an AI chatbot that lets users create a virtual girlfriend for companionship and role-playing. It offers some users a feeling of connection, especially when they're lonely.
  2. The app includes NSFW features like sexting and receiving 'spicy selfies,' but it raises concerns about emotional dependency on AI for intimacy.
  3. While Replika can provide comfort, relying on it for social interaction might deepen feelings of loneliness, as it doesn't replace real human relationships.

The Year Behind and Ahead

439 implied HN points • 30 Dec 22
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Writing Travel Social Issues Self-reflection
  1. 2022 was a year of big changes, including getting laid off but finding freedom in freelance writing and traveling a lot.
  2. The author discovered new motivations in writing, focusing on how topics like sexuality reflect on society, not just interesting facts.
  3. In 2023, there may be more conversations about masculinity and sexual health online, which could lead to confusion about desires and habits.

Notes on 'No Nut November'

399 implied HN points • 06 Dec 22
🎭️ Culture Internet Trends Sexuality Memes Community Masculinity
  1. 'No Nut November' is a challenge where many men try to avoid ejaculation for a month. This challenge is often approached for fun, personal control, or even as a way to feel connected with their sexuality.
  2. Some men see this month as a chance to discuss and rethink their habits around sexuality, especially in relation to excessive porn use. They may recognize a need for change, even if they're unsure how to express it.
  3. The challenge may attract different motivations, including humor or serious intent, but it highlights a desire for self-discipline and a safe space to talk about these topics among peers.

Fixing Your Life with Beef Liver Crisps

339 implied HN points • 19 Jan 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition Mental health Wellness Trends Lifestyle Men's Health
  1. Many people are looking for guidance and certainty in their lives, and some online figures exploit this need by promoting their products, like beef liver jerky. It's important to be cautious about where we seek advice.
  2. Some social media accounts promote ideas about health and masculinity that might be misleading or exaggerated. Their goal often seems to be to sell something rather than genuinely help others.
  3. Discussions about topics like porn and sexuality can be confusing, and the science behind claims can be questionable. Always look for evidence before accepting such claims as truth.

Insta-Cucked

299 implied HN points • 20 Dec 22
🎭️ Culture Relationships Social media Sexuality Psychology Gender Studies
  1. Some people on Instagram ask others to cuck them without really knowing what it means. They just send a direct message without any introduction.
  2. Cuckolding is about feeling powerless, but messaging a stranger isn't the right way to explore this desire. Understanding one's own feelings is important.
  3. It's frustrating when people think they can easily get others to fulfill their fantasies online. Real connections are more meaningful than quick messages.

Revisiting Desire

419 implied HN points • 22 Jun 22
🎭️ Culture Internet culture Sexuality Desire Subcultures Gender Roles
  1. The writer reflects on their relationship with the concept of desire, exploring how it influences writing. They see desire as a common thread in many topics.
  2. They discuss a subreddit called r/CensoredForBetas, where some men identify as 'beta' and choose to limit their access to sexual content. This reveals complex views on self-identity and masculinity.
  3. The writer hopes to create a personal space for casual exploration of these themes, using desire as a guiding principle in their writing.

The Men Who Love Being Ripped Off

219 implied HN points • 10 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Online Trends Consumer behavior Social Dynamics
  1. Some men find excitement in being misled or disappointed when it comes to online adult content. They enjoy the feeling of being 'ripped off' as part of their experience.
  2. For these men, the thrill comes from the contrast between their expectations and the reality. They might hope to see revealing images but often receive something completely different instead.
  3. This dynamic raises questions about the way sexuality is viewed, often reducing it to just a transaction. The focus can become less about connection and more about commerce.

What Is a PAWG(Blog)?

219 implied HN points • 02 Jun 21
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Feminism Media Identity Body Image
  1. The term 'PAWG' refers to a specific body type that is attractive to many, especially in porn. It's about being confident in your body and owning the label.
  2. This newsletter will explore culture through the lens of what it means to be a PAWG. It will discuss famous PAWGs and also share personal reflections.
  3. Identifying as a PAWG can be seen as both fun and a reclamation of a term often used in a sexual context. It’s not just about the body type but also a state of mind.

An Introduction to PAWG Politics

199 implied HN points • 22 Jun 21
🎭️ Culture Social media Pop culture Sexuality
  1. The term 'PAWG' has gained popularity since 2010, reflecting changing beauty standards and preferences for body shapes. More people are searching for it, especially related to online content.
  2. Race and ethnicity play a big role in discussions around PAWG, influencing how different body types are perceived, especially in pornography. This raises questions about cultural appropriation and preference.
  3. While PAWG is often used humorously and has entered mainstream chat, it also encourages us to think about body politics and how people's views on bodies can change over time.

Optimization Will Not Save You

3 HN points • 09 Apr 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Physical Fitness Nutrition Lifestyle Relationships
  1. Optimizing everything we do doesn't guarantee happiness or fulfillment. Many people try to measure and track everything, but that can leave them feeling empty.
  2. Our relationships and connections with others are key to our happiness, more than any optimization technique. Building and cherishing these connections is really important.
  3. Living an optimized lifestyle can become isolating. Following strict routines can take away the spontaneity and fun that comes with being social and enjoying life.