The hottest Authoritarianism Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

From Flatland to Reality: Escaping the Political Pendulum

The Corbett Report • 6 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Authoritarianism Political theory Political Movements Globalism
  1. People often think they can solve problems by switching from left to right in politics, but they often end up in the same spot. It's like two ants walking in opposite directions on a loop, thinking they are getting away from each other.
  2. The political system is designed to keep us distracted by left versus right arguments instead of looking at the bigger issue of increasing authoritarianism. This makes it hard for people to realize they are being led toward the same outcome regardless of which side they support.
  3. To truly make change, we need to focus on the underlying issues of power and control rather than just swapping one authoritarian leader for another. It's important to address the larger concept of freedom versus control.

The Purge of the Deep State and the Road to Dictatorship

The Chris Hedges Report • 605 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Authoritarianism Civil Rights Political History Public Policy
  1. The Trump administration is pushing for a major shift in how the government operates, aiming to replace officials with their loyal supporters. This could lead to a situation where laws are only what the leaders say they are, weakening democracy.
  2. There are concerns about the increasing power of large corporations and technology companies, which could misuse personal data and control more aspects of government. This threatens both people's privacy and their rights.
  3. The rise of authoritarianism in leadership can lead to divisions in society, where dissenters face harsh repression. People are urged to resist this and hold onto their moral values, even if it seems difficult.

Fault Lines

Comment is Freed • 78 implied HN points • 27 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conservative movement Global Politics Nationalism Authoritarianism
  1. The CPAC event has evolved into a global gathering for right-wing leaders, with participants from many countries, showing a rise in nationalist movements worldwide.
  2. Tension is growing between moderate and extreme factions within the right-wing movement, as seen with the response to controversial gestures and ideology.
  3. Right-wing parties in Western Europe face challenges in balancing their base and broader electorate, which could lead to splits and conflicts within their ranks.

Liberalism is the rebellion now

Noahpinion • 29882 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Liberalism Freedom Authoritarianism Social justice
  1. Liberalism, which values individual freedom and dignity, is losing its presence in politics today. People are beginning to feel that discussing freedom is not as popular or important as it used to be.
  2. Societal freedoms are decreasing, with fewer leaders advocating for individual rights. Issues like abortion and freedom of speech are increasingly under threat from both political sides.
  3. In today's world, believing in liberal ideals feels like joining a rebellion against powerful authoritarian influences. People who support freedom and dignity are now faced with many challenges and obstacles.

The authoritarian political agenda: beyond populism

Wyclif's Dust • 1341 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Authoritarianism Populism Electoral Politics Governance Political Philosophy
  1. Many recent political leaders, like Trump and Modi, seem to share a dislike for traditional institutions. They often challenge or bypass established political systems and laws to push their agendas.
  2. These leaders come from different backgrounds but have gained support by tapping into public dissatisfaction with current systems. They use populism to connect with voters, even if their specific policies vary widely.
  3. The modern economy has shifted towards large-scale operations, which makes nations and big corporations more intertwined. This shift affects how these leaders approach governance and their relationships with businesses.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Orwell Was Way Ahead of You

Life Since the Baby Boom • 2075 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship Free speech Media Liberalism Authoritarianism
  1. Censorship has existed for a long time. In the past, it was about avoiding upsets with powerful figures like Stalin, and today it can involve platforms suppressing certain views to not offend certain groups.
  2. George Orwell's work, like 'Animal Farm', still applies today. His message about free speech and censorship resonates with ongoing debates about what opinions are allowed in society.
  3. There are parallels between past and present politics. Just like Orwell faced backlash for criticizing the USSR, current tech leaders can face criticism for their decisions that some see as siding with extreme viewpoints.

Authoritarians: Some just want to watch the world burn; others prefer spreadsheets

Brain Pizza • 529 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Authoritarianism Democracy Political Psychology
  1. Authoritarianism comes in different styles. Some leaders create chaos with impulsive decisions, while others focus on structured control and planning.
  2. Chaotic authoritarians act unpredictably and often rely on their personal charisma to maintain power. This can create a sense of instability but also keeps followers engaged.
  3. Programmatic authoritarians prefer rules and long-term goals, using structured policies to keep control. They can seem stable but are also vulnerable to collapse during crises.

"There is no room for firewalls": U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance denounces the closed and exclusionary European political elite to their faces

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 378 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political speech Democracy International relations Populism Authoritarianism Migration
  1. J.D. Vance criticized European leaders for being closed and not listening to the people. He believes that real security comes from embracing democratic values and voices of citizens.
  2. He pointed out that issues like internet censorship and political repression are undermining democracy in Europe and the U.S. He urged leaders to fight for free speech instead of shutting down dissenting opinions.
  3. Vance highlighted that mass migration is a pressing issue that people are concerned about. He called for leaders to take these concerns seriously and respond to the will of the voters.

Let's Get Real

Unpopular Front • 145 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Authoritarianism Movements History
  1. Some believe that Trump isn't a strong leader because he struggles with Congress and doesn't have popular support. However, this weak position could be why he tries to bypass normal government processes and use executive power more.
  2. Critics of the idea that Trump is fascist argue he's not repressive, but history shows that early fascist leaders cooperated with existing systems before showing more authoritarian tendencies, which we may be seeing now.
  3. People often think fascism has to involve a strong military or violent takeover, but it can also use economic control and the threat of job loss to maintain power, which is evident in today's political environment.

The Weaponization Czar

Thinking about... • 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.

Huang Frankenstein

Dana Blankenhorn: Facing the Future • 79 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Integrity Authoritarianism AI Ethics Political Ideologies Economic Policy
  1. Some technologists believe they can create a world where people aren't needed, which raises concerns about everyone's role in society.
  2. There is a mindset that defines a person's value mainly by their monetary contribution, ignoring the importance of art and idealism.
  3. Political and technological systems should serve people, ensuring their safety and happiness, rather than just focusing on control and profit.

Night Falls in Venezuela

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 918 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Democracy Elections Latin America Authoritarianism
  1. Nicolás Maduro has been sworn in for a third term as president of Venezuela, despite accusations of a stolen election. Many Venezuelans protested, but the government responded with prison sentences for opponents.
  2. María Corina Machado, a leading opposition figure, was briefly released from detention, sparking some hope for change. However, the overall situation remains dark and uncertain.
  3. Recent protests against Maduro were weaker compared to previous years, and important opposition leaders like Edmundo González Urrutia are still in exile. This gives a gloomy outlook for the future of democracy in Venezuela.

He Fought for Freedom. Then He Chose Prison.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2341 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Human Rights Authoritarianism Freedom of Speech International relations
  1. Jimmy Lai is a billionaire from Hong Kong who has been a strong critic of the Chinese government for many years. He founded a popular newspaper and has been involved in numerous pro-democracy protests.
  2. Lai is currently in solitary confinement in prison due to his political activities. Despite this, he remains hopeful and continues to write diary entries that show his strong spirit.
  3. He chose to stay and fight against oppression, even though he had the means to escape. His decision reflects his commitment to his supporters and the fight for freedom in Hong Kong.

Misreading the Room

Doomberg • 6365 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Energy Policy Latin America Authoritarianism
  1. Venezuela used to be one of the world's top oil producers but has seen its production decline by over 80% due to mismanagement and political issues. This has made the country really poor compared to its past.
  2. Maduro, the current president, has taken provocative actions as his power weakens, including making bold statements about 'liberating' Puerto Rico with military help.
  3. Venezuela has huge oil reserves and could be an important energy supply for the U.S., creating a potential interest in the country from U.S. leaders.

Let the final battle begin

Robert Reich • 26612 implied HN points • 24 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Trump Election Rule of Law Authoritarianism
  1. Donald Trump is gearing up for a final battle against democracy and the rule of law.
  2. A potential indictment against Trump will shift focus to him in the 2024 election, making it a referendum on him rather than Biden.
  3. Defending democracy and the rule of law is crucial in the face of authoritarian impulses and the threat posed by Trump and his supporters.

The Media Keeps Trying to “Understand” Trump Voters Because They Don’t Want to Accept the Truth About Them

Bulwark+ • 14976 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Elections Partisanship Democracy Authoritarianism
  1. The media attempts to understand Trump voters but may not fully accept the truth about their motivations.
  2. Guardrails in democracy may not be enough to prevent certain actions of those seeking power.
  3. Google search influences web design, impacting user experience and content creation.

The Fourteenth Amendment Wasn’t a Creative Writing Exercise

Bulwark+ • 9552 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legal Presidential National Security Authoritarianism Democracy
  1. The Fourteenth Amendment was drafted in response to specific concerns about real-world actions from the past.
  2. The Fourteenth Amendment's Section 3 was written to prevent individuals like John B. Floyd, who violated their oath of office, from holding government positions.
  3. The progression of authoritarianism in America reveals the fragility of our system's guardrails when confronted one by one.

How Fascism Came

The Chris Hedges Report • 676 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Authoritarianism Social Inequality Corporate Influence
  1. America's democracy is facing big problems because both major political parties have sided with big companies and the rich. This has created a lot of social inequality and hurt ordinary people.
  2. The idea of fascism can grow when people feel left out and hopeless about their futures. If the needs of the struggling middle class and poor aren't addressed, it can lead to dangerous movements.
  3. The media and politics today often feel like a show, with truth taking a backseat to entertainment. This makes it hard for people to see what's really happening in society.

Plan D

Doomberg • 6499 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Energy Authoritarianism Resources Diplomacy
  1. Turkmenistan, led by the late dictator Niyazov, created a unique cult of personality centered around himself with his image everywhere in the country.
  2. After Niyazov's death, Turkmenistan remained an oppressive state under President Berdimuhamedov, known for its very low score on political rights and civil liberties.
  3. The country has huge energy resources, especially natural gas, making it significant in global energy discussions, particularly concerning China's future energy needs.

The Herd of Independent Minds Stampedes Off the Cliff

Bulwark+ • 6603 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Authoritarianism Media Political Analysis
  1. The Republican Party is now Trump's party, with members rushing to show loyalty despite the consequences.
  2. Ben Shapiro, once a Never Trumper, endorsed Donald Trump, showcasing a shift in allegiance.
  3. Many individuals, including politicians, media figures, and billionaires, are downplaying the threats posed by Trump, showing a trend of denialism and minimizing concerns.

WATCH: Inside Assad’s ‘Human Slaughterhouse’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 477 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Authoritarianism Human Rights
  1. Sednaya prison is known for its extreme brutality and has become a symbol of the Assad regime's terror. Many Syrians are now searching for their loved ones who were imprisoned there.
  2. Survivor testimonies reveal horrific practices, like executions and inhumane treatment of prisoners. One former inmate describes hearing names called out before people were taken away never to return.
  3. Exclusive footage from inside Sednaya highlights the dark conditions and the emotional impact on those who survived and their families. The prison is often referred to as a human slaughterhouse.

Crossing a line

Thinking about... • 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.

The Origins of Elite Human Capital Institutions and Communities

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 1779 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Institutions Governance Elites Authoritarianism Cultural norms
  1. Elite Human Capital institutions emerge when smart and idealistic people come together, seeking truth and shared values over just making money. These communities form naturally as individuals find others like themselves.
  2. Wealth-maximizers and meaning-maximizers represent two paths that people can take in these communities. While some focus on financial success, others prioritize making meaningful contributions to society.
  3. Authoritarian regimes often suppress elite human capital because educated people pose a threat to their power. When these institutions are stifled, it can hinder a country's overall progress and development.

A Solon, a King, or a Tyrant?

Gideon's Substack • 28 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Constitution Executive Power Political theory Elections Authoritarianism
  1. There are different views among Trump's supporters about what kind of leader they want him to be. Some see him as a potential king or tyrant, while others hope he can restore the republic.
  2. Many believe that Trump’s use of executive power might lead to a significant change in the American political system. This has sparked concerns about whether it could evolve into a form of dictatorship.
  3. It’s important to recognize the differences among supporters' visions for America’s future. Understanding these differences can help shape the opposition's strategy moving forward.

You Can Be the Ultimate Fascist on the Stage and People Love You for It

Default Wisdom • 40 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Rhetoric Authoritarianism Cultural critique Public Perception Case Studies
  1. People often admire those who take bold, extreme stances, even if they're controversial. This can make them seem powerful and charismatic.
  2. The performance aspect of strong personalities can draw in crowds and create a sense of loyalty among followers.
  3. While extreme views can be polarizing, they can also create a strong, engaged audience that appreciates the assertiveness.

Why Greenland?

Thinking about... • 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.

Putin Kills Navalny

Diane Francis • 1498 implied HN points • 16 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Human Rights Authoritarianism Political Activism
  1. Alexei Navalny, a prominent Russian opposition leader, has died under suspicious circumstances while imprisoned, raising concerns about government involvement.
  2. Navalny was known for his anti-corruption efforts and faced multiple assassination attempts, including being poisoned with a nerve agent.
  3. Despite the risks, Navalny inspired protests against the Russian government, demonstrating the public's desire for change and challenging Putin's regime.

GLK, subscriber on my stack, is prophetic and on target here as to the Malone, Bourla, Bancel et al. death mRNA vaccine: "The importance of no-choice vaccination is functional in ways that are not

Alexander News Network -Dr. Paul Elias Alexander's substack • 1415 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination Authoritarianism Public Health
  1. No-choice vaccination can serve functions beyond health.
  2. Symbolism and psychological conditioning play a role in vaccination.
  3. For some, mandatory vaccination is seen as a form of submission.

Our New Pandemic: Moral Cowardice

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 359 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Leadership Political Ethics Public Discourse Authoritarianism
  1. Moral cowardice is widespread today, causing people to lie and betray their own beliefs. This issue affects many public figures who prioritize loyalty over truth.
  2. Alexei Navalny is presented as a true example of courage and moral strength. He stood up against corruption in Russia, even knowing it could lead to his death.
  3. The piece encourages individuals to reject lies and strive to do what is right, emphasizing that life is too short to remain silent and complacent.

Dictator on Day One

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 31 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Authoritarianism Government Policies Elections Political Commentary
  1. Many people are shocked by the actions of leaders, even if they expected bad things to happen. It's hard to believe that things could get so extreme.
  2. There's a growing concern that violence and authoritarian behavior are becoming normalized in society. People are starting to feel fear over expressing opposition.
  3. Changes in government policies, like how refugees and health organizations are treated, reflect a troubling shift away from compassion and global cooperation.

How will Trump Become Dictator?

Erik Examines • 268 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Authoritarianism Election Dynamics Political Narrative Media Control Historical comparisons
  1. Trump's approach to gaining power could follow a slow and strategic path like other modern dictators, rather than an abrupt takeover. This means he might try to control various parts of the government and media gradually.
  2. Looking at examples like Putin's Russia and Orbán's Hungary helps understand how a more subtle authoritarianism can develop in a modern society. These regimes often maintain a facade of democracy while consolidating power behind the scenes.
  3. There's a real concern that if Trump were to attempt an authoritarian shift, it could lead to significant backlash in the U.S. Americans value their freedoms highly and might resist overreach aggressively, creating a cycle of conflict.

How Trump Will Use the Alien Enemies Act of 1798

JoeWrote • 51 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Legislation Political strategy Authoritarianism Judiciary
  1. The Alien Enemies Act from 1798 allows the President to remove non-citizens from countries the U.S. is at war with. This means even legal immigrants could be sent away without a trial.
  2. Trump might use the idea of a 'national emergency' to frame immigrants as threats, leading to more aggressive deportation policies against various groups, even those who are legally present.
  3. Resistance to Trump's plans should focus on the larger issues of racism and anti-immigrant sentiments in America, not just oppose him as an individual leader.

The Rise of Counterfeit Democracy

The Garden of Forking Paths • 2319 implied HN points • 24 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics Democracy Authoritarianism Human Rights
  1. Outside of established democracies, there is a rise in counterfeit democracy - authoritarian rule disguising as democratic.
  2. Many countries pretend to be democracies, but are actually authoritarian - leading to a decline in global democracy.
  3. Counterfeit democracies use elections and democratic trappings to maintain power, but lack true democratic values and institutions.

When Oligarchs go Bad

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 20 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Extremism Democracy Authoritarianism International relations
  1. Democracies face a challenge in protecting themselves from groups that want to undermine them while still allowing freedom of expression. Finding the right balance is difficult, especially in places with a troubled history.
  2. Germany has strict laws to monitor and potentially ban parties that threaten its democratic values, but it is challenging to enforce these laws without appearing biased or suppressing free speech.
  3. The rise of far-right groups, like the AfD in Germany, highlights a growing trend towards extreme nationalism and xenophobia, often fueled by the support of external powers like Russia. These movements can harm democracy and threaten social cohesion.

Why is America "Trumpomuskovia"?

Thinking about... • 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.