Rob Henderson's Newsletter

Rob Henderson's Newsletter explores disparities between elites and ordinary Americans, focusing on human nature, psychology, social class, and luxury beliefs. It delves into issues like family stability, educational trends, Hollywood influence, psychological aspects of upward mobility, and the impact of 'luxury beliefs' on societal classes, providing insights through research findings and personal experiences.

Human Nature Psychology Social Class Disparities Family Dynamics Educational Trends Media Influence Luxury Beliefs Upward Mobility Societal Impact of Beliefs Writing and Creativity Sexual Behavior Economic Redistribution Social Media Perceptions Gender Divides Health Trends

The hottest Substack posts of Rob Henderson's Newsletter

And their main takeaways

Palm Beach, Friendship Paradox, Personality and Eating

909 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Psychology Social Status Relationships Personality Behavior Happiness
  1. Women with tattoos might be more open to casual relationships and tend to enjoy new experiences more than those without tattoos.
  2. Going to religious services regularly can make people happier than having a lot of money, showing the power of community and connection.
  3. Good-looking people are often seen as more trustworthy and capable, which can even influence how they're treated in court.

Who Keeps the Castle Clean?

5056 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Social Class Authenticity Cultural Appropriation Social Mobility
  1. Cultural appropriation discussions can reveal biases and assumptions about privilege and background. It's interesting how people can judge others based on where they think they come from, showing how stereotypes work in social settings.
  2. Many students at elite universities share similar backgrounds and can co-opt the struggles of marginalized communities. This idea highlights the complexities of privilege and how some people may navigate identity to fit into their social environment.
  3. Upward social mobility carries challenges as it can create a disconnect from one's original community. People often have to balance their new experiences with their roots, which can lead to feelings of guilt or not belonging.

What Working-Class Voters Wanted

5606 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Voting Trends Political Messaging Cultural Issues Elections Demographics
  1. Many working-class voters were drawn to Trump's message of American greatness and opportunity. They felt inspired by his promises to restore economic strength.
  2. The Democratic Party's focus on cultural issues may have alienated many traditional voters. People without college degrees don't always share the same values as those in elite circles.
  3. Many voters, including people of color, still believe in the American Dream. This belief contrasts with some progressive views that paint America negatively.

A Sex Strike isn't Going to Work

7576 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Feminism Society Media History Politics Gender
  1. Cultural appropriation happens when one group takes aspects of another group's culture without understanding its significance. American women joining the South Korean 4B movement might be seen as doing this, as they are adopting a struggle that is not theirs.
  2. A collective sex strike faces many challenges. It requires everyone to agree and act together, which is hard since individuals might choose to break the strike and miss out on the potential benefits without facing consequences.
  3. Looking at history, past movements didn't always work out as planned. Striking for change isn't as simple as withholding something, especially in a democracy where individual freedoms and choices are valued.

Infinite Loops, The Economist, Gut Feelings

1231 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🎙 Podcasts Interviews Psychology Social Issues Media Education
  1. Spending money can lead to more social connections, especially for men, compared to saving. It seems that being open to spending might attract more partners.
  2. Being with a spouse can significantly boost happiness and make activities feel more meaningful. This shows how important companionship is in our lives.
  3. Dog lovers tend to be more extroverted and organized, while cat lovers might be more open to new experiences. This suggests that our pet preferences can reflect our personalities.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

The Evolutionary Logic of Emotional Development in Children

719 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
  1. Emotions in children develop over time and are shaped by their environment. Kids learn how to express feelings based on what they see and experience around them.
  2. Emotional development has evolutionary roots, which means it has helped humans survive and thrive. Understanding this can help parents support their child's growth.
  3. Recognizing and responding to children's emotions is important for their overall well-being. It helps them feel understood and encourages healthy emotional growth.

I Can’t Believe Calling Him Hitler Didn’t Work

4091 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Public Opinion Political History Campaign strategies
  1. People are surprised that calling someone 'Hitler' doesn't always change opinions. This shows that extreme labeling may not impact how others vote or think.
  2. Some fear that Americans might elect a controversial or criminal figure as president. This reflects concerns about the current political climate and choices.
  3. The situation highlights a deeper debate about political tactics and their effectiveness. Some tactics may backfire or become less relatable in real-life decision-making.

C-SPAN, Paranoia, Sleeping Babies

833 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Public Policy Media Studies Psychology Social Issues
  1. You can watch my C-SPAN interview about various topics related to public affairs. It's interesting to see how different subjects are discussed in media.
  2. I have a new lecture series on the psychology of social status, exploring why people seek status and how it influences behavior. This could help you understand social dynamics better.
  3. I shared some links to articles that discuss responsibility in society, paranoia, and modern issues. These readings could offer a deeper understanding of our current world.

Wellesley College, Patriotism, Social Anxiety

1420 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Public Opinion Patriotism Social Issues
  1. Many people feel proud to be American and see the U.S. as a land of opportunity. This belief is especially strong among non-white voters.
  2. The differences in values about patriotism and crime among voters show a divide between party messaging and what many common people feel. It suggests that certain messages may not resonate with everyone.
  3. Open plan offices can increase stress and negative mood, leading to more sick days compared to traditional cubicles. This impacts worker well-being and productivity.

Smart, But Not Too Smart: IQ as a Double-Edged Sword in Leadership (and Romance)

2954 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Intelligence Elections Public Opinion Social Skills
  1. Having a high IQ is important for success in many areas of life, including jobs and even health. It helps people learn quickly and solve problems well.
  2. For leaders, being smart is good, but being too smart can make it hard for people to relate to them. The best leaders usually have an IQ that's just above average.
  3. It's essential for leaders to connect with their followers. If they can't relate well, even smart leaders may struggle to succeed.

Status Anxiety and Social Class

1856 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Social Status Belief systems Class dynamics Education Cultural Commentary
  1. Luxury beliefs are ideas that make rich people feel good but hurt poorer people. For example, some wealthy folks support defunding the police, but the poor are the ones who suffer when crime rates rise.
  2. Elite schools now look for essays about overcoming hardship instead of using standardized tests, which can unfairly favor rich applicants who know how to present their stories well.
  3. There’s a tension in how colleges want to see both ambition and victimhood. Some students might exaggerate their struggles to fit in, which can dilute the experiences of those who truly face hardship.

I’m Moving To New York

5056 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Writing Personal Growth Social Issues Urban life Migration
  1. The author is moving to New York City for new opportunities and experiences. They are excited but also aware of the challenges that come with city life.
  2. They express gratitude for their reader's support, which makes this move possible despite the high costs of living in NYC.
  3. The author sees this move as a fresh start, hoping to grow creatively and connect with others in a bustling environment.

Harvard, Dog and Cat People, Casual Sex

1458 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior Psychology Education Arts Relationships
  1. Women tend to feel more loneliness and regret after casual sex, while men generally feel happier and more satisfied.
  2. In the Soviet Union, educated people were more supportive of communism compared to those with less education, showing that privilege can influence political beliefs.
  3. Trust levels vary by nationality; only a small percentage of Chinese citizens trust those from different countries, while much higher percentages in Germany, the US, and Australia do.

Schedule a meeting with Rob Henderson

416 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Psychology Human nature Life Advice Personal Growth Communication
  1. You can book one-on-one video calls with Rob Henderson for discussions on various topics. It's a chance for readers to connect directly and share thoughts.
  2. The meetings are available for a limited time, so it's good to schedule them soon if you're interested. You can pick a date that fits your schedule.
  3. Conversations can cover his writings, psychology, and life advice, but should not be considered as professional therapy.

How to Spot a Star

2859 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
💼 Business Talent Management Human Resources Staffing Economic Trends
  1. It's important to look beyond just education to spot talent. People can be talented even within the same educational background, and practice and perseverance often matter more than where you went to school.
  2. Personality traits, like conscientiousness, play a big role in success. Those who work hard and stay focused are more likely to succeed, especially in lower-skilled jobs.
  3. Asking unique questions in interviews can help identify true talent. For example, finding out what someone reads for fun can reveal their interests and drive more than traditional job history.

The Hypocrisy of the New Upper Class

2215 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Inequality Social Commentary
  1. The new upper class shows a lot of hypocrisy in their beliefs and actions. They often preach one thing while living another way.
  2. This group often criticizes the working class yet benefits from the very systems they speak against. They want to appear virtuous but don’t always act that way.
  3. The contrast between what they say and what they do makes people question their sincerity. It highlights a common issue of double standards among elites.

Notes on Power, Seduction, Mastery, Strategy, and Human Nature

795 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Power Mastery Strategy Human nature
  1. Understanding power dynamics can help you navigate social situations better. It's good to be aware of how influence works between people.
  2. Mastery in any skill requires consistent practice and strategy. Putting in the effort over time will lead to improvement.
  3. Human nature is complex, and understanding it can help you relate better to others. Being empathetic goes a long way in connecting with people.

People Spend Too Much Time On Decisions with Equally Satisfying Outcomes

984 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Decision-making Cognitive Bias Behavioral Science Rationality
  1. People often waste time making decisions that don't have a big difference in the outcome. It's okay to choose quickly when the results are similar.
  2. Analysis paralysis can happen when someone overthinks decisions. Simplifying the process can help avoid this trap.
  3. Making a choice and moving forward can lead to more satisfaction than worrying too much about what could have been done differently. Taking action is usually better than hesitating.

Nietzschean Morality, Criminal Impulses, Inequality

814 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Ethics Morality Social Status Inequality
  1. Nietzsche's ideas challenge traditional views of morality. They encourage looking at morality from a different perspective.
  2. Understanding criminal impulses can help us find ways to address crime more effectively. Therapy might be one of the options to consider.
  3. Reducing inequality might be as simple as increasing work opportunities. Encouraging people to work more could lessen social gaps.

Rich People Food, The Paradox of Liberation, Success Sequence

928 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Social Status Food culture Philosophy Lifestyle Human behavior
  1. Rich people often have different food preferences, which can reflect their social status. Eating certain foods can signal wealth and lifestyle choices.
  2. The concept of liberation can be paradoxical; sometimes, more freedom can lead to complications and struggles in life.
  3. Following a 'success sequence'—like education, job, and then family—can help people find stability and success in life.

Evil Eyes, Status Games, Substack Meetings

1193 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Social Status Psychology Family Behavior
  1. Social status affects how we behave and interact with others. It influences everything from our emotions to our romantic pursuits.
  2. One-on-one meetings with readers are being offered, allowing for direct conversations and engagement.
  3. Recent findings show that marriage dynamics and education levels can significantly influence family structures and priorities.

Emotional Armor with Michael Malice

492 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
🎙 Podcasts Interviews Comedy Culture Media Conversations
  1. Emotional armor helps people cope with tough situations. It’s like a protective shield that keeps negative feelings at bay.
  2. Humor is a great way to deal with serious topics. Laughing can lighten heavy discussions and make them more enjoyable.
  3. Connecting with others through shared experiences can make hard times easier. Talking about feelings and experiences can help build strong bonds.

America's Lost Boys and Me

6913 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🏥 Health Politics Education Gender gap Psychological impact
  1. There is a concerning trend of young American men struggling with unemployment, education, and family stability, with statistics showing a significant decline in college attendance among males.
  2. Childhood instability and broken homes have a stronger impact on boys than girls, affecting factors like education, future earnings, and likelihood of incarceration. Stable and secure homes are crucial for children's success.
  3. Research findings emphasize the importance of a solid, two-parent home for a child's future, highlighting the need for positive male role models and guidance to help young men succeed academically and professionally.

The Rise of Western Individualism

4431 implied HN points • 17 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Psychology History Society Religion Economics
  1. Western individualism stems from historical factors like the power of the Western Church and its unique taboos on family structures.
  2. WEIRD societies have distinct characteristics: hyper-individualism, focus on intentions, patience for delayed gratification, and a willingness to adhere to rules even without enforcement.
  3. The rise of Western individualism influenced laws, innovation, and economic prosperity, with key factors like belief in moralizing gods, influence of formal institutions, and the impact of impersonal markets.

Troubled is a National Bestseller—But Weirdly, Not a New York Times Bestseller

4697 implied HN points • 03 Mar 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews
  1. Making it to different bestseller lists can vary based on different criteria and sources, showing how subjective the process is.
  2. Bestseller lists reflect sales velocity for a week, not the overall success of a book. This can lead to various books making the lists based on short-term sales spikes.
  3. Elite opinions, including those of individuals who read a lot and care about bestseller status, can significantly influence public opinion, policies, and societal functioning.

On Writing

4886 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
📚 Literature Writing Creativity Authors Memoirs Books
  1. The key to writing is having a point of view and putting in the effort consistently, regardless of any specific method or process.
  2. Creativity involves both insight and persistence; don't underestimate the value of persistent effort in generating creative ideas.
  3. Writing regularly may involve accepting that initial drafts may not be perfect, embracing bad writing as part of the process, and persisting through writer's block.

How the luxury beliefs of an educated elite erode society

4261 implied HN points • 25 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Society Class Beliefs Education Books
  1. Luxury beliefs confer status at low cost to the upper class, but can be damaging to lower classes.
  2. Affluent individuals often promote harmful lifestyles to others while distancing themselves from the consequences.
  3. The concept of white privilege can be embraced by wealthy white individuals to elevate social status, while those who actually face the repercussions are usually less privileged.

Two-Parent Families Are More Important Than College

3920 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🚌 Education Family Dynamics Social Mobility Book Reviews Life experiences
  1. The focus on education as a sole solution for social mobility overlooks the importance of nurturing and support before age 18.
  2. It's crucial to gather data from communities directly rather than relying solely on self-proclaimed leaders to bridge gaps.
  3. Encouraging two-parent families is emphasized over college attainment, highlighting the significance of family structure.

We've Come a Long Way

3655 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
📚 Literature Memoir Publishing Book Sales Writing
  1. The author shares their journey from financial struggle to success, highlighting how generosity from readers helped him transition to writing full-time.
  2. Pre-ordering a book can significantly impact its success by influencing bookstore orders, placement, and potential to become a bestseller.
  3. The book "Troubled" contains personal narratives about foster care, social class, and challenging societal norms, aiming to promote important conversations in the culture.

What Shocked Me About the Culture at Yale

2765 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Education Literature Books Podcasts Social Issues
  1. Professors at Yale often work well into their eighties and nineties, a notable difference from other environments.
  2. Students at Ivy League schools can exhibit hypocrisy, criticizing certain occupations while secretly pursuing opportunities in them.
  3. Many elite university students fear being seen as who they truly are, choosing to uphold a virtuous image instead.

Troubled: A Memoir of Foster Care, Family, and Social Class is Available Now!

2632 implied HN points • 20 Feb 24
📚 Literature Book release Book Reviews
  1. The author's book, 'Troubled: A Memoir of Foster Care, Family, and Social Class' is now available, containing new material and insights on social class, upward mobility, and luxury beliefs.
  2. Support for the book is welcomed through social media posts, physical bookstore purchases, and leaving reviews on platforms like Amazon and Goodreads.
  3. The author also shares podcast appearances discussing the book and related topics, providing various links for listeners to access.

"Striving For Upward Mobility Without Background"

3011 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Higher education Social Class Literature
  1. Some elite college professors have a habit of starting sentences with lowercase letters and abbreviating words randomly.
  2. The discussion about Harvard Extension School's legitimacy brings to mind the concept of clinging to social prestige.
  3. There is a recognizable psychological type of individuals who are intelligent enough to attend prestigious universities but not exceptionally bright.

Big Money, Elites, San Francisco

2083 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Books Podcasts Events
  1. Rob Henderson is making TV and podcast appearances discussing topics like elites, hidden hierarchies, and luxury beliefs.
  2. Join Rob Henderson at book events in San Francisco on March 6 and March 7 to discuss his book _Troubled_.
  3. Listen to Rob Henderson on various podcasts like Modern Wisdom and YOUR WELCOME, sharing insights on diverse topics including genetic tests and reinventing oneself.