The hottest Civic engagement Substack posts right now

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

The Dawn of a New Civilization

Contemplations on the Tree of Woe • 4524 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political theory Historical Analysis Civic engagement Societal Change
  1. The emergence of the Aenean civilization represents a shift from ambition-driven actions to thoughtful and cautious progress. This new mindset respects both history and the fragility of our future.
  2. Elon Musk's support for Donald Trump symbolizes a collaboration between futurism and populism, which aims to take humanity beyond Earth and face existential threats together.
  3. The Aenean spirit understands the importance of balancing dreams of exploration with the reality of potential risks. It seeks to ensure humanity's survival through deliberate actions rather than reckless pursuits.

Links to Consider, 11/10/2024

In My Tribe • 243 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Governance Media Economics Civic engagement
  1. The connection between the government and society has grown stronger over the last 30 years, changing how power is used and its effects on freedom.
  2. There is a growing concern that the people in charge of local businesses no longer represent the interests of their communities, leading to a disconnect in local governance.
  3. Technology may challenge our ability to grasp complex issues, which makes the idea of limited government even more important to protect individual freedoms.

dear washington DC

bad cattitude • 328 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government reform Public Policy Political Commentary Civic engagement
  1. A new group of highly skilled and productive people is coming to Washington, D.C., and they are different from the usual insiders. They are capable of achieving remarkable things quickly.
  2. This new team operates with a mindset of moving fast and breaking things, challenging existing processes and norms in government. They are ready to disrupt the status quo.
  3. With their talent and determination, this group could bring significant change to government agencies, leaving the current officials surprised and unable to keep up.

How to fix The Observer

Odds and Ends of History • 536 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Journalism News Public Opinion Civic engagement
  1. The Observer is facing a potential sale that many staff members oppose, fearing it goes against its founding values. 93% of the voting staff are in favor of striking against the sale.
  2. There's a debate about whether the sale could actually help The Observer, despite the backlash. Some believe it might lead to a better future for the outlet.
  3. The situation highlights the struggles within traditional media and raises questions about its future in the digital age. It's an important moment for both journalists and media consumers.

Election Countdown, 11 Days to Go: Reasons to be Brave.

Breaking the News • 1500 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Civic engagement Political Commentary Media influence Voting Rights
  1. People should be brave and confident in their beliefs, especially during political campaigns. It's important to face challenges with determination and pride.
  2. Leadership and hope are powerful motivators for citizens. Most Americans want to strive for a better future together rather than succumb to negativity.
  3. Collaboration across political lines is essential. It’s crucial to focus on unity and the things we stand for, rather than getting lost in division and despair.
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Stanford Starts to Make Ammends: Lessons from the Pandemic

COVID Reason • 535 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24
🚌 Education Health Education Public Policy Civic engagement
  1. Open dialogue is key to understanding different viewpoints and creating solutions. It's important to have respectful conversations, especially when opinions differ.
  2. Universities should promote healthy discussions and critical thinking. They play a big role in preparing future leaders to engage with tough topics.
  3. Recognizing past mistakes can lead to better decisions in the future. Learning from errors is essential for growth in both education and public policy.

The America of Yesterday

Yascha Mounk • 5095 implied HN points • 01 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Civic engagement Public Opinion Political History Social movements
  1. America used to be a place where people felt hopeful about their country and its future. Now, many people seem more cynical and distrustful of public figures.
  2. In the past, popular culture embraced humor and self-awareness, allowing for discussions about important issues without taking everything too seriously. Today, there's a sense of censorship and a judgmental attitude towards differing opinions.
  3. Despite the current negativity, there's still hope for America. The country has a history of bouncing back from difficult times, and there's a chance that a cultural renewal could happen in the future.

Thanksgiving: The Propaganda Holiday

JoeWrote • 67 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History Education Social Issues Civic engagement Indigenous rights
  1. Thanksgiving is often taught as a friendly feast between settlers and Native Americans, but the reality was much harsher, involving broken treaties and violence. It's important to understand the real history behind it.
  2. The holiday has been used as a form of propaganda to promote a false sense of unity and national identity in America, while ignoring the harms done to Indigenous peoples.
  3. Recognizing the true history of Thanksgiving can help us confront the myths propagated in our education system and work towards a more honest understanding of America's past.

Should we have Deliberative Democracy?

Erik Examines • 89 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Political theory Civic engagement Public Policy Governance
  1. Deliberative democracy is about having conversations among citizens to make better decisions, rather than just voting. It focuses on discussing issues deeply before deciding things.
  2. This model can be mixed with traditional democracy, where citizen assemblies could help inform lawmakers. It doesn't replace representatives but enhances how decisions are made.
  3. Using AI can help find common ground during discussions, making it easier for people to reach agreements on policies. It could guide groups to better solutions by analyzing opinions and suggesting compromises.

Freedom and safety

Thinking about... • 172 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Elections International relations Civic engagement
  1. Ukrainians are fighting for their freedom and defending democracy, helping to maintain global stability. Their courage allows other countries to focus on their own issues while they bear the burden of the fight.
  2. Supporting Ukraine through donations or by voting for pro-Ukrainian candidates is crucial. Even small contributions can make a big difference in helping them feel safer and more secure.
  3. Democracy is about cooperating and caring for others, not just arguing for our own beliefs. By working together and helping one another, we can all create a world where everyone has more freedom.

Come Ask me a Question on my Post-Election Livestream Q&A

The Chris Hedges Report • 101 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political Commentary Civic engagement
  1. There's a livestream event where you can ask questions after an election. This is a chance to get direct answers and share your thoughts.
  2. The platform encourages readers to support by subscribing either for free or with payment. This helps keep the conversation going.
  3. The post is meant to engage readers and get them involved in important discussions. It's a good opportunity to connect with the ideas being shared.

Across the Divide: What It Means to Be American

Papyrus Rampant • 138 implied HN points • 12 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Identity Political division Historical Narratives Civic engagement Civil Rights
  1. People often have different views of history based on their experiences and backgrounds. This can lead to disagreements over what events mean and how they shape our identities.
  2. National stories are important because they give people a sense of belonging. These narratives help define what it means to be part of a nation and influence how people understand each other.
  3. It's okay to disagree, but we need to learn to accept our differences without hostility. True connection comes from love and understanding, even across political divides.

Friday brief: Concern as Northampton’s Guildhall statues set to move

NN Journal • 218 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Local Governance Civic engagement Public Policy
  1. There's a plan to move statues from the Guildhall courtyard, which is causing concern among locals. These statues honor important figures in the town's history.
  2. The town council is being asked to move out of the Guildhall but still wants a say in what happens to the statues and the building's future.
  3. A vacant council building is set to be sold to a shoe manufacturer after previous plans for it fell through. This sale could lead to the creation of new jobs and restoration of the building.

47+ Reasons to Vote For Tim Walz

Remarkable People • 739 implied HN points • 09 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Political issues Civic engagement Democracy
  1. Tim Walz is knowledgeable about many practical things that matter in everyday life, from technology to cooking. This shows he has a wide range of skills and common sense.
  2. He has a strong understanding of important social issues and engages with well-known experts and figures. This indicates he is well-connected and responsive to community needs.
  3. Tim Walz is presented as a relatable and down-to-earth candidate who knows how to tackle real-world problems. This makes him seem approachable and trustworthy to voters.

The guardrails are off

Men Yell at Me • 200 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Democracy Public Opinion Civic engagement
  1. Many Americans are really stressed about the upcoming election. It's normal to feel anxious about big events that could affect our lives.
  2. Articles often suggest easy fixes like turning off the news, but sometimes that isn't enough. It's valid to feel scared about the future of democracy.
  3. Facing tough realities is part of being human. It's okay to acknowledge fear and uncertainty instead of pretending everything is fine.

Reminder: Zoom Call Tonight

Nonzero Newsletter • 112 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political culture Public Policy Civic engagement
  1. There's a Zoom call happening tonight at 8 PM US Eastern Time. It's for NZN members to talk about the election and what's next.
  2. The call will last for 90 minutes or until all questions are answered. It's a good chance to discuss important topics.
  3. You can join using the provided link to ask questions and share thoughts with others.

I Don't Think Dan Le Batard Should Dump on Trump Voters

House of Strauss • 80 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Opinion Media Analysis Civic engagement Political trends
  1. Political discussions can get really intense because they affect people's lives. It's important to try to understand where others are coming from, even if you don't agree with them.
  2. Voting decisions are complicated and often involve many factors. People vote for candidates based on personal experiences and beliefs, not just political slogans.
  3. It's important to focus on connections with others and recognize their humanity, regardless of their political choices. Judging others harshly for their votes can create divides instead of understanding.

Joe Biden's final act is a message for boomers

Jeff Giesea • 638 implied HN points • 23 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Reform Leadership Civic engagement
  1. Joe Biden's recognition of his age highlights the need for younger leaders in politics. It's important for the older generation to acknowledge when it's time to step aside.
  2. As demographics shift, more younger workers are entering the workforce, creating a chance for change in leadership. This can help keep America competitive and engaged in global issues.
  3. Trust in institutions is low, so reform is needed. Fresh ideas and perspectives from younger leaders can help rebuild trust and improve how things work.

November 9, 2024

Letters from an American • 21 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Legislation Political Analysis Civic engagement
  1. Finding peace in quiet moments is important during chaotic times. It's nice to take a break and reflect on calmness.
  2. Sleep is essential, especially after busy or stressful days. Rest can help recharge for whatever comes next.
  3. Art can provide a different perspective and comfort. A beautiful photograph can be a reminder of serene moments amidst daily chaos.

Zoom event Monday evening October 14

In My Tribe • 45 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Content Moderation Political Conflict Public Discourse Civic engagement Media influence
  1. There's a Zoom event on October 14 at 8 PM New York time with John Samples discussing content moderation on Facebook.
  2. The event will also touch on the current state of political conflict and where it might be headed.
  3. This event is exclusive to paid subscribers, so make sure to sign up if you want to join.

Electoral Blues

Tessa Fights Robots • 24 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political theory Civic engagement Public Sentiment Political Commentary
  1. Many political elections feel like a game or theater to some people. They believe real change doesn't come from just voting, but from facing what's truly going on around us.
  2. Our personal power to create change comes from how we manage our energy and connect with others. It's about clarity, love, and courage in our daily lives.
  3. Instead of getting caught up in elections, we should focus on our inner strength and the courage to stand up against those who try to control us. We have the ability to change the world ourselves.

About my smashed shed

Jeff Giesea • 359 implied HN points • 15 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Democracy Political Reform Civic engagement Political violence
  1. Events happen that we can't control, like storms or trees falling, but how we react to them can make a difference. We can shape some outcomes by our actions.
  2. American democracy is fragile right now, much like a damaged shed. It needs rebuilding and improvement to feel secure again.
  3. Choosing to engage in democracy and work together for reforms is essential. It's up to us to strengthen the system for the future, especially for the next generation.

The debt-laden Christchurch City Council NZ seems to have a spare $50K to splash out on a rainbow pedestrian crossing.

A B’Old Woman • 639 implied HN points • 20 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Local government Public Policy Civic engagement LGBTQ+ Issues
  1. Christchurch City Council is considering spending $50,000 on a rainbow pedestrian crossing despite being in significant debt. This is seen as controversial given their financial situation.
  2. Rainbow crossings may not comply with regular traffic safety laws, posing potential confusion for both pedestrians and drivers. Standard zebra crossings are designed for clear road safety.
  3. There is a suggestion that the council should allocate funds to more pressing social issues, like supporting women’s shelters, instead of spending on symbolic projects like a rainbow crossing.

Seattle's Most Remarkable Day

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 339 implied HN points • 25 Apr 24
💾 History Local history Transportation Economic Development Civic engagement Cultural Events
  1. Seattle's citizens wanted a railroad to connect them to the rest of the country. After being rejected by the Northern Pacific Railroad, they decided to build their own railroad instead.
  2. On a notable day in 1874, the community came together to start building the Seattle and Walla Walla Railroad, marking a moment of pride and determination.
  3. Although the railroad never reached its ambitious goals, it opened new opportunities for Seattle, particularly in coal supply, showing how local efforts can make a big impact.

Transcript of "The election may not mean what we think."

Charles Eisenstein • 4 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political narratives Public Sentiment Civic engagement Political Change
  1. The recent election has stirred many emotions in people, from hope to despair. It's important to recognize these feelings without making quick judgments about what they mean.
  2. Uncertainty is a big part of our current situation. Instead of clinging to one narrative, we should explore different viewpoints and stay open to new ideas.
  3. We might face significant changes that challenge what we know. Preparing for the unexpected means letting go of fixed beliefs and being curious about what could come next.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 28.10.2024

steigan.no • 8 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Trust Public Opinion Political Movements Government Policy Civic engagement
  1. Many people reported health issues from old computer screens, and this problem seems to persist with modern smart meters. It's important to understand the potential health risks from technology we use every day.
  2. Trust in media in the US has reached record lows, with more people expressing distrust than trust. This highlights a growing divide in how people perceive news sources.
  3. Younger Republicans are now supporting a shift in US foreign policy towards Israel, showing a significant change in political attitudes among the youth. This indicates a potential shift in how future generations may approach foreign policy.

Summer of '23

Castalia • 279 implied HN points • 10 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Economic issues Public Policy Civic engagement Political parties
  1. Summer of 2023 felt peaceful and calm as people enjoyed being outside and the pandemic seemed less serious. There was a sense of civility in society, and tensions had eased compared to previous years.
  2. Political conversations grew more complex, with former patterns returning but underlying issues remaining. Figures like Trump were still influential, and concerns about Biden's capability to lead resurfaced.
  3. Missed opportunities arose in dealing with significant issues like AI regulation and the impacts of the pandemic. It highlighted how good governance can lead to a positive cultural moment, but many challenges are still looming.

When students report the news

The Bell Ringer • 59 implied HN points • 26 Apr 24
🚌 Education Civic engagement Media Literacy Youth Programs
  1. Student journalism has important academic benefits. It helps students learn critical thinking and writing skills.
  2. Engaging in journalism can boost civic awareness among young people. It encourages them to understand and participate in their communities.
  3. New networks are promoting student journalism and its positive impacts. These platforms aim to highlight the value of student voices in media.

Fixing the Web Week Recap: 5/27/24

Unmoderated Insights • 39 implied HN points • 28 May 24
🕹 Technology Social media AI User engagement Civic engagement
  1. Social media feeds often rank content based on how much people engage with it, but this can lead to promoting harmful or low-quality information. It's better to rank content based on diverse engagement from a variety of users.
  2. Research shows that when diverse groups engage with content, it helps point out harmful posts. If a lot of different people express concerns about a post, it’s likely low-quality.
  3. Using smarter ranking methods can improve the overall user experience on social media by reducing bullying and misinformation, which can help companies grow in the long run.

The Democracy Reforms Transforming Local Politics

theconnector • 137 implied HN points • 25 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Local Politics Civic engagement
  1. Participatory budgeting and citizen juries are empowering local communities to make decisions about budget allocations.
  2. Local government initiatives like Decatur 101 and CivicLex are improving communication and engagement between residents and local government.
  3. Promoting civic engagement can lead to positive changes in communities, and individuals have the power to champion democratic reforms.

National Myths Old and New

Castalia • 159 implied HN points • 10 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Identity Historical Narratives Civic engagement Cultural critique
  1. There are two main stories about America's past: one celebrates its founding and achievements, while the other highlights its flaws like slavery and injustice. People seem to be divided between these two views.
  2. A new generation sees America's past as something that can be redeemed through acknowledging past wrongs and offering reparations. This idea focuses on healing and addressing the trauma of oppressed groups.
  3. America's role in the world is important, too. Instead of just looking at what happened inside the country, it's vital to recognize how it protects allies and maintains a certain type of order internationally, which can also shape positive patriotism.

American Un-Exceptionalism

Diane Francis • 559 implied HN points • 11 Feb 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Process Government Accountability Elections Political Leadership Civic engagement
  1. Many American politicians ignore important issues, focusing instead on their own political gain. This shows a lack of responsibility and awareness of their duties as leaders.
  2. America's political leaders often don't compare well to those in other countries, ignoring that other nations provide better living standards and education for their citizens.
  3. The concept of 'American exceptionalism' is fading because the U.S. is not living up to its potential. The country can do better by learning from successful practices in other developed nations.

Why the #SOTU Matters

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 24 Jan 12
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Democracy Public Sentiment Civic engagement
  1. The State of the Union address symbolizes unity in government. It's a rare moment when all branches of government come together, reminding us that we are a united republic, even with differing opinions.
  2. It reflects how the government works, showing that the President doesn't just make laws but asks Congress to act. This moment highlights the importance of collaboration in democracy.
  3. The emotional impact of the State of the Union is significant. It creates feelings of pride and hope, showcasing the power of the democratic process and the celebration of our government.

Not my favorite holiday

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 17 Feb 12
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Historical Figures Democracy Civic engagement
  1. Some holidays, like Columbus Day, may not hold much cultural significance and often aren't celebrated outside of being a day off work.
  2. The author feels uncomfortable with the way we honor political figures, particularly George Washington, believing that democracy is more about the collective efforts of many people rather than individual heroism.
  3. Instead of celebrating specific leaders, the author suggests we should focus on holidays that recognize broader accomplishments, like Constitution Day or a day celebrating civil rights victories.

Twelve minutes of popular sovereignty

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 08 Nov 11
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Civic engagement Political culture
  1. Voting can feel special and meaningful, like being part of something bigger. It's a chance to connect with history and the future every time you cast your vote.
  2. Going to the polls is a mix of excitement and calm. It's quieter now than in the past, but that doesn't make it any less important.
  3. The process of voting has changed over time, with new technology making it easier. But the feeling of participating in democracy stays the same.

Church Democracy

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 13 Nov 11
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Democracy Church Community Civic engagement
  1. Democratic structures in churches can empower community members. People feel more involved and engaged when they have a say in decisions, especially in smaller, more self-governing congregations.
  2. The election process observed was not very effective. It seemed to favor candidates with some support but also significant opposition, and many voters did not fully understand the responsibilities of the positions.
  3. Getting young people involved in voting is beneficial for both them and the church. It helps them feel connected and valued, and it could encourage them to stay engaged as they grow older.

No Sense in Fighting This Meme...

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 16 Feb 12
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Public Opinion Civic engagement Political Behavior
  1. Memes are powerful and can spread quickly. It's often better to embrace them than to fight against them.
  2. Trying to resist a popular meme can lead to more negativity. It's usually a waste of energy to push back.
  3. Understanding and engaging with memes can lead to better communication and connection with others. It's important to be aware of their impact.