The hottest Censorship Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics

Why is this Michael Keaton thriller Censored on Amazon?

Textual Variations • 165 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Censorship
  1. The movie 'Pacific Heights' has a censored version on Amazon that blurs nudity and mutes swear words. This makes it feel funny and odd, affecting the film's serious tone.
  2. It's unclear who decided to censor the film, but it likely wasn't Amazon itself. The owners may have done it to attract more viewers or advertisers.
  3. With more streaming platforms introducing ads, there are concerns that censorship could become more common. People expect to see the full version of films and should be informed if it's edited.

~75% of Psychology Claims are False

Unsafe Science • 161 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🔬 Science Censorship
  1. A lot of psychology studies are not reliable, with about 75% of their claims likely being false. So, it's best to be skeptical of what you read in this field.
  2. Many published psychology findings are difficult to reproduce. This means that even though a study shows something, there's a good chance it might not be true when tried again.
  3. Censorship and ignoring opposing evidence can lead to more misinformation in psychology. Some studies get more attention even when their findings are wrong or contested.

War on Gaza (w/ Joe Sacco) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 111 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. Joe Sacco uses graphic journalism to share stories from war zones, bringing a unique perspective that traditional media often misses. His work combines drawings and humor to convey tough realities.
  2. Sacco raises important questions about how we define aggression and self-defense, especially in context of the violence in Gaza. He suggests we need new terms to describe the complex nature of these conflicts.
  3. The discussion highlights the moral dilemmas faced in voting and supporting policies that contribute to violence, questioning how citizens can remain complicit while wanting change.

Saturday Commentary and Review #154

Fisted by Foucault • 323 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Censorship
  1. Poland experienced challenges with judicial reform and resistance to western liberal mandates.
  2. There is a shift towards illiberal methods in the name of defending democracy, exemplified by actions in Poland and Germany.
  3. Efforts to de-dollarize economies like China's seek to strengthen financial security and reduce vulnerabilities in the global economic system.

TWITTER FILES: Twitter Provided Privileged Access to Banning Queen, Taylor Lorenz

The DisInformation Chronicle • 520 implied HN points • 18 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. Twitter provided privileged access to Taylor Lorenz for banning accounts and monitoring online conversations about her.
  2. Taylor Lorenz had a pattern of reporting accounts and individuals she disagreed with, resulting in suspensions.
  3. Lorenz faced allegations of doxing and influencing social media platforms to take action against her critics.
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US Government Officials Sought To Censor Narratives and Interfere In 2020 Election, Newly Released Emails Show

Public • 362 implied HN points • 29 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. Newly released emails show US government officials sought to censor narratives and interfere in the 2020 election.
  2. Department of Homeland Security's methods of information control aimed at narrative control and election interference.
  3. Government-backed censorship was revealed to be part of a larger political influence operation to shape public opinion.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for your support this weekend

Unreported Truths • 33 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. Building a community around sharing opinions and truths is really important. It creates support and understanding, especially during tough times.
  2. Legal battles about free speech can be frustrating. It's disheartening to feel that the government or others are not fully supporting your rights.
  3. Open discussions and respecting different viewpoints are crucial. It's okay to disagree, but we should listen to each other and not silence differing opinions.

Inside the Plot To Kill The Censorship Industrial Complex

Public • 336 implied HN points • 11 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. Evidence shows Stanford Internet Observatory demanded censorship of Covid vaccine information and interfered in the 2020 elections
  2. Government agencies like DHS-CISA secretly created the Censorship Industrial Complex, threatening freedom of speech
  3. Efforts are being made to dismantle the Censorship Industrial Complex and turn the tide against censorship advocates

Suppression of Free Speech at MIT: "On Pacifism" and the Ban on Written Revolution

Heterodox STEM • 99 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. MIT recently banned a student magazine for an article discussing the limitations of nonviolent protest, sparking a debate about free speech on campus.
  2. The situation highlights how expressing controversial or radical ideas can lead to disciplinary actions at universities.
  3. The case shows the challenges students face when trying to discuss extreme views and the balance between safety and free expression in academic settings.

"X" Has Become a Hate Machine

Unpopular Front • 106 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. The platform 'X' has shifted to allowing more hate-filled content, where racist and misogynistic posts are becoming common. This reflects a change in how moderation practices are handled.
  2. People are noticing an increase in harmful content in their feeds, suggesting that the platform's algorithm is promoting these negative messages as normal. This could influence users' attitudes and behaviors.
  3. There's frustration with the idea that social media, especially 'X', is being used to push a specific political agenda. Some users feel trapped between platforms that either promote hate or are overly liberal.

An update on Berenson v Biden - and the Trump Administration's missed chance to take on Biden White House censorship

Unreported Truths • 29 implied HN points • 05 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. The Trump administration previously criticized Biden's censorship actions on social media but hasn't actively pursued a case against them, leaving the question of accountability open.
  2. A judge ruled that Berenson did not have standing to sue the Biden administration, but acknowledged evidence of censorship without a clear way for Berenson to seek damages.
  3. The Trump administration has a chance to admit to past censorship and settle the case without admitting wrongdoing, yet it seems to be avoiding action on this issue.

Israel’s War on the Foreign Press (w/ Jeremy Loffredo) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 103 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. Journalists face serious risks when reporting on sensitive topics like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, including censorship and detention. Many are afraid to share their experiences due to potential repercussions.
  2. There's a significant level of harsh rhetoric and actions from some Israelis against Palestinians, which reflects a broader aggressive attitude. This rhetoric often goes hand-in-hand with verbal and physical attacks against those advocating for Palestinian rights.
  3. The treatment of journalists and activists in Israel shows a strong divide in how dissent is handled, with severe consequences for those who speak out. This creates an environment where people are discouraged from sharing their truths out of fear of retaliation.

Censorship’s Impact on China’s Chatbots

ChinaTalk • 207 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Censorship
  1. Chinese AI chatbots are subject to strict censorship by the Cyberspace Administration of China, affecting their responses to political questions.
  2. There is a noticeable tradeoff between content control and value alignment in Chinese chatbots, highlighting a balance between censorship and quality of output.
  3. Censorship in Chinese chatbots involves value alignment training and keyword filtering, showing how Chinese regulators influence the responses of AI models to favor Beijing's values.

The "Globohomo Agenda"

The Questioner • 58 implied HN points • 03 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. The term 'Globohomo Agenda' is used to describe the societal shift towards censorship and authoritarianism driven by globalist fears of overpopulation and resource scarcity.
  2. Many conspiracy theories about collusion among globalist billionaires may actually be tactics to discredit genuine concerns raised by people.
  3. Global elites are pushing for depopulation through sterilization and encouraging gender transition, but their solutions may not address the core issues and could potentially lead to societal collapse.

Verified sextortion scammers are flooding the Chinese circle on Twitter

Wenhao’s news blog • 58 implied HN points • 23 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics Censorship
  1. Verified sextortion scammers are targeting the Chinese circle on Twitter by flooding the platform with fake accounts and threats.
  2. The scammer operation involves potentially thousands of members working outside of China to carry out sextortion schemes.
  3. The presence of these scammer accounts has disrupted political discussions within the Chinese community on Twitter, leading to influential figures feeling discouraged.

Berenson v Biden is at a critical moment

Unreported Truths • 29 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. The Trump White House has a chance to support free speech by settling the Berenson v. Biden case, but they seem uninterested right now. If they don't act, important parts of the case might be dismissed.
  2. Appealing the recent ruling could lead to a better outcome for the claims about free speech and potential damages against the government. The case raises questions about the rights of unvaccinated individuals that could go all the way to the Supreme Court.
  3. If the Trump administration chooses not to settle, they could end up defending a position that many of their supporters might not agree with, which could be a big mistake for their image.

The Anti-Defamation League Defames Substack

Karlstack • 366 implied HN points • 08 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Censorship
  1. ADL criticized and called for the deplatforming of several Substack writers for promoting conspiracy theories.
  2. There is suspicion that Substack was blocked by Twitter as retaliation for launching a new feature similar to Twitter.
  3. The incident involving the ADL, Substack, and Twitter is a developing story that has caused confusion and concern among content creators.

Commentator

Castalia • 79 implied HN points • 26 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. The recent U.S. intelligence leak highlights serious security flaws and morale issues within the military. Access to sensitive information seems too lax, allowing unauthorized personnel to leak crucial documents.
  2. AI technology is increasingly being used in censorship, affecting how we communicate and share information. Restrictions based on certain topics show that platforms are enforcing strict guidelines that may stifle open discourse.
  3. Emmanuel Macron's recent comments on global conflicts indicate a growing pressure in Europe for a more independent foreign policy. His stance may weaken NATO's unity in facing challenges from Russia and China during critical times.

Online Censorship's Institutional Power

Mad at the Internet • 139 HN points • 16 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. There is a growing concern about powerful interests in technology and media that can control online content and silence dissent. People are worried that without organized action, the internet could become less free.
  2. The Kiwi Farms forum has shown how sharing information online can impact reputations significantly. When people share thoughts and stories freely, it can create lasting effects, especially on influential figures.
  3. The anti-censorship movements often lack coordination and resources compared to pro-censorship groups. This makes it hard for them to effectively combat censorship efforts that threaten open dialogue online.

UPDATE on Berenson v Biden: a (senior) federal lawyer just joined the case and the gov't wants to extend the stay

Unreported Truths • 23 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. A senior federal lawyer has joined the case, which means the government is taking it seriously. They also want more time to decide on how to proceed.
  2. The outcome of this case could affect how the Trump administration views censorship and free speech online. They will need to make a decision soon.
  3. The Justice Department's request for more time could mean they are thinking about settling or preparing for potential appeals in the future.

The 2025 Horse Race

Pizza Party • 28 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. The author feels a personal connection to the theme of journalism and censorship, using a horse race metaphor. They compare the competition between journalism and sovereignty to a race where sovereignty ultimately wins.
  2. The situation highlights the struggles of journalists facing pressures from those in power, making it hard for them to do their jobs. This reflects on the broader challenges of freedom of the press in current times.
  3. The author expresses a sense of loss and uncertainty about the future of journalism, especially after losing their job and witnessing the challenges faced by their former boss. This personal experience adds emotional weight to the commentary on press freedom.

A quick update on Berenson v Biden

Unreported Truths • 28 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. The Berenson v Biden case is on hold until a judge makes a decision. The government asked for more time, which both sides agreed to.
  2. There are different claims in the lawsuit, some against government officials and some against private individuals. It's complicated because some defendants have roles in both categories.
  3. Everyone is waiting for the judge's ruling, and it’s unclear what the outcome will be. The situation involves a lot of legal details and intertwining parties.

Free Speech To The Supreme Court — And Beyond!

Public • 234 implied HN points • 11 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. The Fifth Circuit court heard oral arguments in the Missouri v. Biden case revealing government coercion of social media companies.
  2. US Attorney announced a crackdown on illegal supervised drug consumption sites in Harlem and San Francisco.
  3. Michael Shellenberger will be joining Ireland's free speech advocates in Dublin to fight against the hate censorship bill.

Bill C-11 Becomes Law of the Land

Karlstack • 264 implied HN points • 04 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. Bill C-11 has become law in Canada, impacting the future of the internet.
  2. The law allows for regulation of user-generated content and can affect what content is shown to viewers.
  3. Public awareness of Bill C-11 in Canada is limited, with only a small percentage expressing complete support for it.

Big announcement...

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 238 implied HN points • 11 Jul 23
📚 Literature Censorship
  1. The author has written a book that sheds light on silencing, shaming, and bullying for different views.
  2. The book includes stories of public harassment, interviews with well-known figures, and lessons on using one's voice freely.
  3. The author encourages principled individuals to resist authoritarianism and to find and free their own voices.

Ex-US Army Psyops Expert: Fox Fired Carlson To Maintain "Semi Lobotomized Quasi Retarded Population"

Global Community Weekly (GloCom) • 39 implied HN points • 28 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. A former US Army psychological warfare officer believes Fox fired Tucker Carlson to keep the population uninformed
  2. Carlson was seen as a threat to institutional power because he encouraged critical thinking
  3. The ex-host's departure symbolizes a decline in American media and was influenced by political pressure

BRICS Meeting, China- and Russia-Friendly Peace Activists, Bootleg “Barbie,” Aesopian Language, Prigozhin

Natto Thoughts • 39 implied HN points • 25 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics Censorship
  1. The BRICS Summit is significant for China, showcasing their strong interest in expanding cooperation with other countries.
  2. American peace activists have differing views on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, highlighting divisions within the peace advocacy community.
  3. Russians are finding creative ways to access content like pirated Barbie movies amidst government bans, showing a desire for diverse narratives.

The Counter-Disinformation Industry Promotes Left-wing Groupthink, Not Truth

Journal of Free Black Thought • 56 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. The counter-disinformation industry mainly promotes left-wing ideas instead of truth. This means they often dismiss or ignore viewpoints that don't align with their beliefs.
  2. Many people in this industry don't believe in objective truth, which makes it hard for them to identify misinformation properly. Their focus on agreement among like-minded people leads to groupthink.
  3. To avoid misinformation, it's important for people to seek diverse perspectives and think critically about the information they encounter. Engaging with a variety of views helps to better understand complex issues.

Mayo Clinic Suspends A Doctor Who Commented in NYTimes About Testosterone's impact when Trans-athletes compete in Women's sports

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 230 implied HN points • 08 Jun 23
🏥 Health Politics Censorship
  1. Mayo Clinic suspended a doctor for comments on transgender athletes in women's sports, violating academic freedom.
  2. Academics should have the freedom to express their views in media without censorship.
  3. Universities should prioritize the free exchange of ideas over financial gain.

Berenson v Biden gets stronger

Unreported Truths • 48 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. Berenson's lawsuit against Biden is moving forward, and new evidence from 2021 supports his claims of censorship. This case highlights concerns about free speech.
  2. Mark Zuckerberg revealed that the Biden administration pressured social media companies to censor content related to vaccines. This admission strengthens Berenson's case.
  3. The lawsuit process includes several stages, and each outcome will determine how the case proceeds. Berenson believes the evidence will help push the case forward.

Burn Academia Down?

Unsafe Science • 45 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🚌 Education Censorship
  1. There are concerns about censorship in academia that need to be addressed. People should be able to share and discuss ideas freely without fear of being shut down.
  2. Some believe that the current academic system is failing and might require a complete overhaul. It's suggested that starting fresh could lead to better ideas and practices.
  3. Engaging with diverse perspectives can enhance the learning experience. Encouraging different viewpoints can help improve critical thinking and innovation.

The War for the Free Internet

From the New World • 59 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. The internet faces ongoing censorship challenges, and these can lead to the shaping of narratives that affect elections and public opinion. People have different views on what information should be shared or censored.
  2. The tension between media influences and political outcomes is complex. Different groups have tried to control the narrative around elections, often leading to disputes over media's role in shaping results.
  3. Emerging technologies like AI and social media are becoming new battlegrounds for censorship. As efforts to regulate these platforms continue, key figures like politicians and entrepreneurs are preparing for ongoing conflicts over information sharing.

Twitter admits its algorithm promotes right-wing politicians and media outlets

Geopolitical Economy Report • 159 implied HN points • 25 Oct 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. Twitter's algorithm favors right-wing politicians and media outlets in several countries like the US, Britain, Japan, Germany, France, Spain, and Canada.
  2. The algorithm amplifies right-leaning news outlets and parties more than left-leaning ones.
  3. In most cases, center-right and neoliberal politicians, parties, and media are the most promoted on Twitter.

How to fight fascism

Sex and the State • 38 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. It's important to recognize that the fight against censorship and control often starts with marginalized groups, like sex workers, and their struggles can affect everyone. We need to unite and support each other regardless of our backgrounds.
  2. Challenging the status quo is essential, but it's also crucial to understand that real change takes time and involves understanding the complexities of existing systems. Burning everything down might not be the answer.
  3. Celebrating small acts of resistance and being true to ourselves matters. Each step we take counts, whether it's showing our identities or standing against the norm.

US Government Lied About COVID, Censored Americans, Says US Government

Unmasked • 50 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. The U.S. government made serious mistakes in handling COVID, according to an official report. It shows many leaders, including Dr. Fauci and President Biden, didn't act as they should have.
  2. A dedicated committee investigated the government's actions during the pandemic. Their findings reveal a lot about the failures and missteps along the way.
  3. Some people want to forget the harsh COVID rules and how they were enforced. However, there are ongoing efforts to remember and understand what actually happened.

The Screens are the Symptom.

Data: Made Not Found (by danah) • 153 implied HN points • 26 Sep 23
📚 Literature Censorship
  1. Fahrenheit 451 warns about the dangers of banning books and substituting knowledge with screens.
  2. The book also critiques societal attitudes towards children in the 1950s.
  3. It highlights the importance of not just fighting symptoms, but understanding the structural conditions that enable repression.

What's the difference between a Nazi and a pornographer?

reedmolbak • 19 implied HN points • 30 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship
  1. Content moderation is a complex issue for platforms like Substack, with controversies around what kind of content should or should not be allowed.
  2. Substack's moderation policies are driven by a mix of factors, including branding, promotion of free speech, and distinguishing between harmful content and open discourse of ideas.
  3. There's a fine line between allowing free speech and banning harmful content, and platforms like Substack make value judgments based on what is considered harmful or not communicating ideas.