The Carousel

The Carousel Substack delves into the intersections of modern propaganda, society, and culture, critically analyzing political agendas, advertising, gender roles, and social dynamics. It examines the impact of capitalism on social justice, media silence, and the evolution of workplace culture, while offering insights into consumer behavior and the commodification of social movements.

Modern Propaganda Political Agendas Advertising and Media Gender Roles and Workplace Culture Capitalism and Social Justice Consumer Behavior Cultural and Ethnic Identity Media Censorship

Top posts of the year

And their main takeaways

Everyone is Now Middle Class

128 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy Political Ideology Social Dynamics Cultural critique
  1. The middle class has changed significantly, and now everyone seems to fall under this category. This shift means that even those who were once considered lower class are now being seen as middle class, leading to a divide in perspectives.
  2. There's a focus on a work ethic that pressures everyone to 'pull themselves up by their bootstraps.' This mentality suggests that hard work alone can lead to success, ignoring systemic issues that affect different classes.
  3. The elites appear to be distancing themselves from genuine leadership roles. Instead, they often mimic the middle class while forgetting their responsibilities to help those below them, which can create tension and inequality.

Techno-Feudalist Time Theft

89 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Consumer Rights Digital economy Product Design
  1. Many tech products force us to do extra work, making us feel like we're troubleshooting issues that should be the company's responsibility. This is done to cut costs for the companies and shift the burden onto consumers.
  2. Digital products can end up costing more and being more complicated than simpler, traditional options. For example, digital car keys can be expensive to replace and often need frequent reprogramming.
  3. The design of modern tech is often intentional to make us do more work for them, not less. Instead of providing convenience, tech can sometimes complicate our lives and steal our time.

Grandfather Story

84 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Family Tradition Memory Society Values
  1. It's important to stand by your beliefs, even when everyone around you disagrees. Taking a brave stance can feel lonely but can also be seen as admirable.
  2. Some charity events may not always do what they intend to and can end up being more harmful than helpful. It's good to question where donations really go.
  3. Family relationships can be complex and filled with expectations. Sometimes, big moments can lead to long-lasting pain and unresolved feelings.

Dog Years

56 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Identity Cultural shift Personal narrative Social Issues Family Dynamics
  1. Sometimes, personal breakdowns can lead to important changes in life. Losing control can help people see things more clearly.
  2. Political views can change dramatically, especially when experiencing personal struggles. What once felt right can start to seem false.
  3. Loss can bring a great sense of connection with others. Sharing difficult experiences can help meet others who feel the same way.

Winning isn't for Everyone

54 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
💼 Business Brand Strategy Consumer behavior Corporate culture
  1. Nike used to be the main brand for running shoes but is now losing its edge. Other brands are becoming popular because people want variety and innovation.
  2. Nike's marketing strategies are not connecting with today's runners and they're failing to engage with the running community. They used to focus on meaningful campaigns but now seem out of touch.
  3. The company's recent struggles show that they are in danger of becoming irrelevant. Instead of adapting to modern trends, they have been more focused on image rather than performance and community connections.
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BLAME IMMIGRANTS

54 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Racism Political Identity Nationalism
  1. Some people believe that immigrants, especially from the subcontinent, don't fully embrace American culture and traditions. They feel that the contributions of white American men should not be overshadowed.
  2. There are concerns that increased immigration might lead to economic issues and social tensions, as seen in other countries. This raises questions about how to manage future immigration effectively.
  3. There's a strong sentiment that immigrants should assimilate into American culture to be truly accepted. Critics argue that some groups keep their own practices and don't fully integrate.

Allopathic Violence

51 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare system Pharmaceuticals Mental health Public Health Insurance Issues
  1. The American health and pharmaceutical system is viewed as harmful and profit-driven, often prioritizing financial gain over patient well-being. This can lead to unnecessary medical treatments and a cycle of dependency on medications.
  2. Many medical issues, especially chronic pain, can be rooted in psychological factors rather than purely physical ones. This shows a need for a more holistic approach to health instead of just treating symptoms with drugs and surgeries.
  3. When dealing with health insurance like UnitedHealthcare, it's important to understand that their role is complex. They can be a part of the problem, but often the real issue lies with healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies who create unnecessary treatments.

Pod Against America

43 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Media Election Authenticity Public Opinion
  1. Trump's approach to leadership focuses on genuine beliefs rather than manipulation. This contrasts with elite strategies, which often prioritize how to present ideas rather than what those ideas actually are.
  2. Elites are trained to understand what people want to hear, leading to a lack of authentic engagement with their actual beliefs. They aim to control narratives rather than truly lead.
  3. For the left to regain authenticity in today's media, they need to clearly express their principles instead of just trying to gain power. They should focus on why their ideas matter, rather than simply trying to be liked.

A Disaster for the Automated Race

35 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
⚔ Fiction Literary Fiction Speculative Fiction Contemporary Fiction Social Commentary Satire
  1. The story explores the conflict between humans and machines, showcasing how people feel threatened by automation. The main character views machines as soulless, implying that they shouldn't replace human roles in society.
  2. There are themes of personal loss and family conflict, particularly shown through the CEO's daughter who rebels against her father's beliefs about machines. Her relationship with an automated being reflects deeper societal issues surrounding technology.
  3. The narrative highlights the struggle for control and understanding in a world where emotions and technology clash. Characters grapple with questions of humanity and machine rights, making readers think about the future of relationships.

Thoughts on Therapy

33 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Therapy Coaching Religion Personal Growth
  1. Therapy often feels repetitive and doesn't lead to real solutions. It can sometimes feel like you're just getting vague compliments without any real help.
  2. Career coaching can actually be more useful than traditional therapy. It focuses on specific goals and practical improvements in your life.
  3. Organized religion is seen as a deeper, more meaningful practice than therapy. It provides structure and purpose that therapy lacks.

The Solution to the H1B Problem

32 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Nationalism Meritocracy Immigration Cultural Identity Tech industry
  1. There's a clash between nationalism and meritocracy in America. While meritocracy rewards talent, nationalism focuses on putting the cultural identity of Americans first.
  2. O-1 visas for exceptional individuals could help address talent shortages better than H1B visas. They emphasize hiring based on individual capability rather than just filling positions with cheaper labor.
  3. It's important for tech workers and nationalists to find a balance. Nationalism can actually enhance their drive for success if they integrate cultural values into their work and goals.

Total Editor Death

32 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Writing Creativity Publishing
  1. The role of editors is really important for great writing; many famous writers had editors who helped shape their work. Without skilled editors, quality in mainstream writing seems to be declining.
  2. Today's editors often don't believe in finding true talent and instead focus on what's already popular. This can limit the discovery of new, unique voices.
  3. Creative industries seem stuck in a loop, choosing familiar successes over new ideas because of decision fatigue. There's hope that this might change as more people explore DIY platforms for fresh talent.

Rules for Travel 2.0

24 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🏝 Travel Travel tips Travel planning Travel experiences
  1. Avoid taking buses while traveling. Consider using rental cars and pay with Amex Platinum for better treatment.
  2. When you arrive at a new place, try the local food right away. It's a great way to feel better and experience the culture.
  3. Don't stress about seeing friends when you travel. Just let people know you're there and see who reaches out, or go for a nice walk instead.

Southwest Chief

18 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Identity Society Narrative Travel Subcultures
  1. Traveling by train can lead to unexpected and memorable conversations with strangers. You get to meet a diverse mix of people and share unique experiences.
  2. People often have complex pasts that can shape their present. Just like Travis, some may be trying to leave behind a difficult history and find a new direction in life.
  3. Secrets are common among people and can create unique connections. Whether it's about past choices or present lifestyles, sharing secrets can open up new kinds of relationships.

Kanye, Deranged Penguin

8 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Mental health Criticism Social Issues
  1. Kanye West challenges people’s views on mental illness. Some believe his behavior is a result of mental health issues, while others think he uses it to provoke reactions.
  2. The loudest critics of Kanye often struggle with his different approach to expressing himself. His actions can make people uncomfortable, leading to a conflict between their beliefs and reactions.
  3. Some people see artists like Kanye as outsiders who break the rules of society. This outsider perspective can lead to creative and unexpected ideas, even if it seems strange to others.