The Bellows

The Bellows, by Ryan Avent, dissects a wide array of socioeconomic and political issues, presenting a critical perspective on economic policies, climate change, social justice, the impacts of technology, and the dynamics of capitalism. It explores how these themes intersect with global events, policy decisions, and societal shifts.

Economic policies Climate change Social justice Technology and society Capitalism and market dynamics Political ideologies Global events Socioeconomic issues

The hottest Substack posts of The Bellows

And their main takeaways

Read the room

1 implied HN point • 20 Aug 20
  1. Conformity is important in maintaining a functioning society.
  2. Social norms heavily influence individual behavior and decision-making.
  3. Solving social challenges requires getting people on the same page.

The China question

1 implied HN point • 17 Jul 20
  1. The economic relationship between the world and China is deeply intertwined, but China's human rights abuses are a cause for concern.
  2. China's economic growth has significantly decreased, which could lead to political change even without outside intervention.
  3. Deciding to disengage from China over moral concerns is about affirming values and reminding ourselves of what is truly important.

Atomized

1 implied HN point • 10 Jan 20
  1. There is a concerning rise in mortality rates among working-age white Americans without college degrees due to factors like suicide and substance abuse.
  2. Cultural norms play a significant role in shaping individual decisions, especially regarding education and societal participation.
  3. Changes in cultural norms can have profound impacts on society, influencing behaviors, economic outcomes, and collective action.

There's such a thing as rich enough

1 implied HN point • 12 Nov 19
  1. Some billionaires keep accumulating wealth due to high returns and persistent big fortunes.
  2. Extreme wealth disparity raises concerns about societal impacts and ethical implications.
  3. The power and influence of mega-billionaires can distort societal norms and values.

Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow

0 implied HN points • 06 Apr 20
  1. Prepare for more hardship ahead despite the hope of progress
  2. Remote work might have a lasting impact on how people work and live
  3. Economic recovery and societal changes will likely be slow and uncertain
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Situation normal

0 implied HN points • 25 Sep 20
  1. Norms sometimes need to be violated in order to save them.
  2. Retaliation and negative feedback help shape social circles and identity.
  3. Democratic norms should be violated strategically to establish a new, healthy equilibrium.

Are we sure it's not too late?

0 implied HN points • 05 Dec 19
  1. American democracy may be at risk due to factors like foreign interference.
  2. Impeachment proceedings face challenges amid partisan division and lack of accountability.
  3. The future of American democracy hinges on public participation and electoral outcomes.

It's a hodgepodge, really

0 implied HN points • 22 Oct 19
  1. The post is about a hodgepodge of different topics.
  2. The author is Ryan Avent.
  3. It discusses subscribing to The Bellows newsletter.

The ethical emitter

0 implied HN points • 31 Jan 20
  1. Climate change is a complex problem with long-lasting effects.
  2. Individual actions may seem insignificant, but have a moral obligation to help combat climate change.
  3. Effective solutions for reducing emissions require a balance of moral guidelines and self-interest.