Thinking about... $6 / month

The Substack 'Thinking about...' explores geopolitical tensions, contemporary conflicts, and historical contexts, with a focus on Russia's internal politics, the war in Ukraine, and the implications for global politics. It critically analyses power dynamics, legal issues, and human rights while also touching on cultural and historical insights.

Geopolitical conflicts Russian internal politics Ukraine war and its global implications Power dynamics and state exploitation Legal and human rights issues Cultural and historical contexts

The hottest Substack posts of Thinking about...

And their main takeaways

No Kings

754 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism Protests Civil Rights History Government
  1. We want freedom from kings and powerful leaders because they often put their needs above ours. Freedom means a government that truly works for the people.
  2. History shows that the fight for freedom is a long journey, filled with struggles against oppression. It teaches us that we need allies and to listen to each other.
  3. Protests are just the start of the work for freedom. They remind us that we can stand up and take action together for change.

Trump's civil war

1136 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Government Civil Rights Political Rhetoric History
  1. Trump is trying to change the military's role from protecting the country to controlling the people. He wants soldiers to act against American citizens instead of defending democracy.
  2. His speeches suggest that the past military victories are being used to justify future actions that aren't legal. Trump is encouraging soldiers to follow him personally rather than the Constitution.
  3. By calling migration an 'invasion', Trump is mixing ideas of war and policy, aiming to create an enemy within the country. This could lead to dangerous situations where soldiers might harm their fellow citizens.

On Tyranny free resources

854 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Social justice Civic engagement Education
  1. You can access free cards and posters that summarize lessons from 'On Tyranny'. You can print these resources and share them easily!
  2. The author encourages people to share the lessons freely, whether digitally or in person. It's important to spread knowledge about resistance and politics.
  3. There are also messages available for sharing on social media, promoting the lessons and their relevance for both individuals and educators.

My brother-in-law is a genius

496 implied HN points • 07 Jun 25
🎶 Music Opera Composition Performance Songwriting Critique
  1. The phrase 'my brother-in-law is a genius' isn't commonly said, but it can be true for some people. In this case, the brother-in-law is an accomplished opera composer with award-winning works.
  2. Dan Shore's music often reflects contemporary themes while drawing from classical styles, making his operas unique and relatable. He uses his talent to express current events through his performances.
  3. In tough times, music can offer comfort and connection. Sharing songs that mix serious themes with humor can help people cope better with challenging situations.

The Weaponization Czar

683 implied HN points • 20 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Authoritarianism Law Media Politics Russia
  1. Ed Martin has been appointed as the 'weaponization czar' to use the law against Americans, which is seen as a move towards authoritarianism. His role focuses on intimidating and punishing people who haven't committed any crimes.
  2. Martin has connections with Russian propaganda outlets and has aligned his views with those of Trump, creating a troubling overlap between American politics and Russian interests. This connection shows how dangerous authoritarian practices can spread.
  3. The appointment of someone like Martin raises concerns about the growing influence of foreign propaganda in U.S. politics and highlights the need to recognize the reality of such connections in understanding current political events.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

The Logic of Destruction

4105 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Oligarchy Law Rights Resistance
  1. Democracy relies on people working together to protect their rights and dignity. When a few wealthy individuals try to take control, they undermine the whole system.
  2. The current power struggle isn't about improving the government; it's about causing chaos so the rich can gain even more power. They want to weaken influence from ordinary citizens.
  3. People need to stay engaged and take action to protect their country. Speaking up, protesting, and working together is essential to resist destructive forces targeting democracy.

Of course it’s a coup

2652 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Coup Government Power Digital Rights
  1. A coup can be digital, not just physical. Instead of armed men storming buildings, a group can gain power through technology and access to government systems.
  2. When someone who isn't elected, like Elon Musk, gains control over important government functions, it threatens democracy. It undermines our rights and makes our votes irrelevant.
  3. Recognizing and resisting this type of coup is crucial. It's important to defend our democratic systems against any form of control that chips away at our rights.

Crossing a line

1203 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Authoritarianism Freedom Media Democracy War
  1. Living under Russian occupation is incredibly dangerous for Ukrainians. They risk torture or worse for simply expressing their opinions or having Ukrainian symbols.
  2. While war restricts freedom in Ukraine, people there still experience more personal freedom and expression than under Russian control. They can speak their minds without fear of their own government.
  3. There is a growing concern that America might head towards a regime similar to Russia's, where media is controlled, and people's freedoms are increasingly restricted. It's important to stay aware of this and recognize the lines we must not cross.

Appeasement at Munich

775 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Military History Diplomacy Geopolitics
  1. History shows that appeasing aggressors can lead to greater conflicts. Just like in 1938, giving in can make things worse in the long run.
  2. Ukraine’s resistance has changed the situation. By fighting back, they have prevented further aggression and have kept a major conflict from escalating.
  3. If the U.S. supports appeasement, it risks creating a stronger aggressor. A Russian victory over Ukraine could lead to more wars and even nuclear threats in the future.

The Weak Strongman

731 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Foreign Policy Political Behavior Electoral Politics Governance
  1. Trump's style of leadership can seem strong, but it's actually making America weaker on the world stage. His actions are damaging key government institutions and alliances.
  2. While many Americans fear Trump's behavior, he doesn’t inspire the same fear abroad. Instead, other countries see his actions as a chance to gain more power without concern for his threats.
  3. Trump's government strategy relies on chaos and destruction rather than solid policies. This creates a situation where adversaries like Russia and China can take advantage of America's declining strength.

Musk-Trump CASH application

703 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Policy Civic engagement Political Satire
  1. The fictional CASH application humorously critiques a political climate where unethical behavior is often overlooked. It's like saying you can get ahead despite serious issues if you play the game right.
  2. Affirmative answers on the application suggest that if you have questionable moral character, you might just be more likely to succeed in certain political circles.
  3. The essay part of the application adds a twist, asking candidates to contribute to a deceptive campaign. It shows a satirical take on how truth is sometimes twisted in politics.

Shadow Cabinet

888 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Government Structure Media Relations
  1. A shadow cabinet can provide an alternate political voice to the ruling party. This would give citizens access to different viewpoints and expert opinions on government actions.
  2. The existence of a shadow cabinet could help reshape American politics by promoting positive change and daily dialogue, rather than just focusing on election seasons.
  3. Having a shadow cabinet would also support the media by providing named experts who can comment on government issues, helping journalists offer more informed and diverse perspectives.

Decapitation Strike

1339 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Law Leadership
  1. Trump's appointments seem surprising, but they might be part of a bigger plan to weaken the U.S. government. It's important to look beyond the shock and see the real dangers these choices pose.
  2. Five key areas are critical for a healthy society: health, law, administration, defense, and intelligence. If Trump's appointments go through, they could cause serious harm in these areas, leading to chaos.
  3. Citizens need to unite, regardless of political beliefs, to stand against these harmful appointments. It's a time for common action to protect the future of the country.

Why Greenland?

686 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Authoritarianism Media influence Political Rhetoric
  1. Trump's interest in territories like Greenland isn't about Americans' needs, but rather about his desire for power and stability for himself. This creates serious risks for international relations and could enable aggressive actions from other countries.
  2. The focus on imperialism, like talk of controlling Greenland, may be a distraction from Trump's own leadership failures and the ineptitude of his nominees for key government roles. It’s a way to keep media attention away from serious issues.
  3. Threatening to invade or control resources in other countries, like Canada or Greenland, could actually harm America’s relationships. It's better to maintain alliances and trade fairly than to threaten or invade, especially in a world facing climate challenges.

The People's Cabinet

680 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Political parties Opposition Democracy
  1. A people's cabinet is a new idea for positive opposition to the current government. It's made up of elected officials who are responsible and can guide public opinion.
  2. The term 'shadow cabinet' doesn't resonate with Americans, so better names like 'people's cabinet' or 'alternative cabinet' should be considered. The name should reflect equality and a focus on serving the public.
  3. Creating a people's cabinet can provide a way to hold the government accountable. It can also offer new ideas and perspectives during times of political conflict.

The Mump Oligarchy -- A Glossary

740 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Oligarchy Populism Political Behavior
  1. The Mump regime combines the influence of wealthy individuals like Elon Musk and Donald Trump, who represent a powerful oligarchy. They control political and social narratives for their gain.
  2. Mumpers are people who support or submit to this regime, often ignoring their own governmental responsibilities. This leads to negative behavior like spreading misinformation and avoiding accountability.
  3. The society described as Mumptopia is one where technology and media dictate people's beliefs and values, creating a distracted and disillusioned population that is disconnected from real issues.

Rejected Cabinet Nominees

468 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government History Elections Policy Diplomacy
  1. Some cabinet nominees have been rejected by the Senate in the past, which shows that this is not a common but not unheard of process. It highlights the Senate's role in approving nominees through its 'advice and consent' power.
  2. There have been instances where nominees were found to have serious personal issues or lacked qualifications, leading to their withdrawal or rejection. This raises concerns about the suitability of some of today's nominees.
  3. The history of rejected nominees emphasizes the importance of maintaining standards for cabinet positions. Questions about past employment of undocumented workers should be a part of evaluating nominees, especially given current immigration policies.

Why is Musk-Trump the "Mump Regime"?

578 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Power Public Health Elections
  1. The 'Mump regime' is a term used to describe the influence of Elon Musk and Donald Trump together. This new name suggests that Musk's role is more significant than Trump's, especially considering Musk's wealth and power.
  2. Health and democracy are connected, and the rise of the Mump regime may threaten public health initiatives, like vaccination. This could lead to increased illness and instability in society.
  3. The terms 'mumpers' and 'mumpets' help us understand who actively supports the Mump regime versus those who passively follow. This new vocabulary allows for clearer conversations about politics today.

Tulsi Gabbard Holds the Knife

641 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Security Intelligence Disinformation Foreign Policy Political critique
  1. Tulsi Gabbard is seen as unqualified to lead U.S. intelligence due to her past support for controversial regimes and spreading false information.
  2. Her actions, including justifying violence against civilians and promoting propaganda, raise concerns about her intentions and reliability.
  3. If she were to lead national intelligence, it could put U.S. safety at risk and harm relationships with allies.

The Mump Regime

552 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Public Health Political Influence Regime Change
  1. The government may be shifting from traditional administration to a new kind of regime led by influential figures like Musk and Trump. This change means that financial power could have more influence than elected positions.
  2. Public health is a significant issue in the U.S., and a lack of a national health system leads to greater health problems among citizens. This situation can result in more anxiety and shorter lives for many people.
  3. With debates over vaccination and health policies, there is a real concern that society could face outbreaks of preventable diseases like mumps and measles due to weakened health protections.

Why is America "Trumpomuskovia"?

603 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Elections Oligarchy Authoritarianism Governance
  1. America is becoming like a new regime called 'Trumpomuskovia,' which highlights how the country's leadership is increasingly unstable and personal, mainly focusing on figures like Trump and Musk.
  2. The term connects to Russia and suggests that the U.S. is influenced by oligarchs, reflecting a shift where money and personal power outweigh democratic processes.
  3. This new system is unstable, meaning it could collapse easily. The relationships between powerful figures like Trump and Musk could change quickly, leading to unpredictable outcomes.

Trumpomuskovia

608 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Political History Civil Rights Governance
  1. History can show us patterns that help us understand our current problems. It's not about predicting the future, but recognizing familiar issues we can learn from.
  2. Four possible scenarios for America's future highlight risks like secession, increasing authoritarianism, and the influence of oligarchs. Each scenario shows how history might repeat itself in troubling ways.
  3. Inequality is a key theme in these scenarios. Any hope for improving America's situation will have to tackle issues of wealth and power differences in society.

The Strongman Fantasy (updated 11/24)

611 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Authoritarianism Democracy Political theory Electoral Politics
  1. Many Americans are drawn to the idea of a strongman leader, thinking he will solve problems. However, such leaders often do not have the people's best interests at heart and tend to misuse their power.
  2. Under a dictatorship, fear and mistrust grow in society. People start to betray each other, and everyday life becomes governed by intimidation, harming both public and private relationships.
  3. The fantasy of a strongman achieving quick results often leads to a decline in quality of life for everyone, except for those close to the leader. Ultimately, the strongman weakens society and creates widespread discontent.

Pete Hegseth: The Short Course

622 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Defense Policy Political Ideology Military Affairs Election Influence
  1. Pete Hegseth, who is nominated for a key defense position, has no real experience in national security or running large organizations.
  2. He doesn't recognize global threats to America and has a narrow view on military alliances, believing they are unnecessary.
  3. Hegseth promotes a military shaped by personal beliefs rather than expertise, which could lead to serious issues in defense strategy.

A Third World War?

616 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics International Conflict Geopolitics Military Strategy Nuclear proliferation Eastern Europe
  1. Ukrainians are fighting hard to keep the war contained in their country, which helps prevent a bigger conflict that could involve more nations. Their efforts are like firefighters protecting everyone else from a dangerous situation.
  2. Support for Ukraine is crucial. If other countries stop backing Ukraine while they fight against Russia, it could lead to a larger global conflict and even more nations getting nuclear weapons.
  3. Hysteria and fear can lead to bad decisions that make the situation worse. It's important to stay calm and recognize that supporting Ukraine helps make the world a safer place for everyone.

Decapitation Strike (December)

582 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Political parties Policy Making Political theory
  1. Trump's proposed appointments seem surprising but may be part of a larger plan to undermine the government. It's important to recognize this and not just react with shock.
  2. Health and law are vital for a democratic society. Appointing people who threaten health and the rule of law could damage the country significantly.
  3. Historical patterns show that control over key areas like defense and intelligence can lead to regime change. The individuals Trump chose have backgrounds that suggest they might weaken American institutions and empower personal agendas.

Dictators for a Day

542 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Dictatorship Civil Rights Elections Military Opposition
  1. Attempts at military dictatorship can happen in democracies, as shown by Yoon in South Korea. This situation is a warning for other democratic countries, including the United States.
  2. The response of lawmakers and citizens is crucial when a leader tries to take control. South Korean lawmakers and the public united against Yoon's martial law, showing strong resistance to authoritarianism.
  3. It's important for citizens to be aware and proactive about protecting their democracy. Collective action can help prevent a slide into dictatorship, so everyone needs to stay informed and ready to speak up.

The Phantom Campaign

611 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Campaigns Disinformation Media influence Voting behavior
  1. Manipulative ads can sway voters by showing misleading information. These ads can create confusion and push people towards apathy about voting.
  2. Techniques used in past campaigns, like targeted propaganda, are still being used today. This has affected people's perceptions and discourages them from participating in elections.
  3. We should be aware of how powerful individuals influence our political views. With their resources, they can distort information and impact the democratic process in harmful ways.

Class War or Culture War?

431 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Inequality Culture Class Democracy
  1. America faces huge inequality, and it's crucial to talk about class and who benefits from it. Talking about who the wealthy are and how they gain power can help everyone understand their struggles better.
  2. Just addressing class issues isn't enough. Cultural factors play a big role in how people view these issues and who they support politically. Many people have strong feelings tied to identity that can affect their political choices.
  3. To create real change, we need to combine discussions about class with understanding cultural dynamics. Empathy and mutual understanding between different groups can help us work together to fight inequality and improve society.

The Berlin Wall Never Fell

567 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
💾 History Cold War Communism Political resistance
  1. The Berlin Wall did not actually fall; it remains a symbol rather than an event. People rushed to cross it in 1989, but the wall itself stayed standing.
  2. The story around the wall simplifies a complex history. It ignores the important protests and the teamwork that helped end communist rule in Eastern Europe.
  3. Thinking the wall fell suggests freedom just happens without effort. True change comes from people cooperating and working together towards freedom.

Gratitude to Ukraine (2024)

390 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Democracy Security Civil Rights Conflict resolution
  1. We owe a lot to Ukraine for their fight against Russian aggression. Their resistance has made the world a safer place and reduced the chances of major conflicts.
  2. Ukrainians remind us that freedom isn't just given to us; it's something we must work for and defend. Their struggle teaches us the real meaning of freedom and democracy.
  3. Ukrainians show incredible courage and perseverance in the face of war. Their strength and generosity, even during tough times, inspire us to appreciate our connections and responsibilities to each other.

The Crusade against America

487 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Gender Issues Military Policy Cultural Commentary
  1. Misogyny and gender ideology can be harmful within military and political contexts. They can lead to conflicts that distract from real security issues.
  2. History shows that women have always played roles in warfare. Denying this reality is based on outdated beliefs that do not align with present-day military needs.
  3. There is a danger in empowering individuals who have a narrow view of society. Such leaders can create chaos and undermine the principles of democracy.

Casting the First Stone

475 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Religion Politics Social Issues Feminism
  1. Many people misunderstand the themes and messages in 'The Handmaid's Tale,' often blaming one religion while ignoring the complexities of the story.
  2. The story serves as a warning about the dangers of blindly following ideologies that can lead to oppressive regimes, just like the fictional Gilead.
  3. It's important to reflect on our own beliefs and behaviors, especially when they can lead to harmful actions against others, as seen in the novel.

The Submission Chain

447 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political theory Public Policy International relations Political Movements
  1. Submission happens when people accept lies or narratives that aren't true, which can lead to a sense of division in politics. This creates a power dynamic where some feel they 'own' others by repeating these lies.
  2. There's a chain of submission that exists from Trump voters to Trump and then to leaders like Putin and Xi. This relationship suggests that the power structure affects how countries interact with each other, making America weaker.
  3. If the U.S. backs down on supporting Ukraine, it could embolden other countries like China. Supporting Ukraine is crucial not just for its sake but also for maintaining strength against potential threats globally.

Oligarchs' Island

437 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Oligarchy Public Figures Pop culture
  1. Oligarchs are like a group of powerful people isolated on an island, focusing more on their own interests than the needs of everyday people.
  2. Using humor, like the concept of 'Oligarchs' Island' as a sitcom, can help us understand the ridiculousness and danger of such power dynamics.
  3. Oligarchies are unstable and can quickly change, suggesting that we should be aware of their flaws and the potential for conflict among them.

Men and Women Perform

400 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Analysis Dystopia Gender Studies Cultural criticism
  1. The world created in 'The Handmaid's Tale' feels real and relatable, rather than just a far-off dystopia. It reminds us of our own societal issues.
  2. The story's focus on women's oppression is often overshadowed by a narrative that tries to balance perspectives. It's important to see the story through the experiences of women.
  3. Using polite language to describe serious topics like sexual violence can minimize their impact. We need to be clear and honest about these issues to understand their significance.

Safe Terrain

324 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict resolution Humanitarian Aid Geopolitics Global Security
  1. There is a project called Safe Terrain that aims to clear Ukrainian lands of dangerous mines using robots. This helps keep people safe and allows them to go back home.
  2. De-mining is very risky for humans, so using robots for this job is a safer solution. The project needs about $10,000 more to fund thirty robotic platforms for this purpose.
  3. Support from the public can make a big difference for this project. Donating or sharing the message can help keep Ukrainians safe and support their return to normal life.

The Power We Have

349 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Authoritarianism Public Sentiment
  1. We have the power to influence our future through voting. Every vote matters and can help stop negative outcomes.
  2. Trump's tactics aim to scare and demoralize the majority. It's important to stay hopeful and not let fear take over.
  3. Voting can bring positive change and open doors to a brighter future. Participating in elections is a small but powerful act.

Twelve Million Deportations

366 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Deportation Legislation Law enforcement Political strategy
  1. A plan to deport twelve million undocumented people would drastically change American society, leading to increased violence and a culture where people might betray their neighbors.
  2. This mass deportation would break up many families, impacting about twenty million people, and lead to children losing their parents.
  3. The attempt to deport so many people could create widespread fear and change the role of law enforcement, making it less about safety and more about targeting specific groups.