The hottest Cultural critique Substack posts right now

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My Kind of Conservatism

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 3075 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Cultural critique Conservatism Progressivism Social media
  1. Politics today is heavily influenced by the voices and actions of young people online. Social media has shifted how we engage with culture and politics.
  2. There's a loss of hope for a return to traditional norms in politics. The current political landscape is driven more by tech influence than by the values of liberal democracy.
  3. Being a true conservative today means having a respect for the past and a sense of loss about changes happening in society. It's about nurturing values rather than obsessing over power.

Doomscroll: Amber A'Lee Frost

Joshua Citarella's Newsletter • 457 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🎙 Podcasts Cultural critique Political Commentary Social movements Media Analysis Activism
  1. Young people are often seen as the future of social change. But we need to think about whether they really will lead the revolution.
  2. There are new efforts by the Republican party to support workers. It's important to consider if these changes are genuine or not.
  3. A lot of educated people are struggling to find jobs, which raises questions about what happens next in our society.

Subscriber Writing, February 2025

Freddie deBoer • 1516 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
📚 Literature Creative Writing Essays Reviews Personal narratives Cultural critique
  1. There's a lot of great writing by subscribers every month, so readers should check it out. Submitting work helps gain more readers too.
  2. The email format is changing because there are more submissions than can fit in one message. This change makes it easier for interested readers to find what they want.
  3. The topics covered range widely, from politics to personal experiences, showing the diverse interests of the community and offering something for everyone.

The pitfalls of abundance

Jeff Giesea • 399 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Ethics Human condition Technology impact Cultural critique
  1. Having too much can actually be a problem. It's easy to get overwhelmed with food, social media, and entertainment all around us, making it hard to find balance.
  2. We need to be smart about what we let into our lives. Just like a chef carefully chooses ingredients, we should select our experiences and connections wisely.
  3. It's important to set limits. Finding moderation in abundance helps us focus on what truly matters, like love, relationships, and personal joy.

Wordspells to Rewyrd the World

Postcards From Barsoom • 2855 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
📚 Literature Essays Mythology Creative Writing Podcasts Cultural critique
  1. Words have power, and they can shape our reality. The way we use language can create meaningful changes in our lives and society.
  2. Myth and stories play an important role in understanding our world. They connect us to our history and help us make sense of our experiences.
  3. Engaging in deep discussions with others can open our minds to new ideas and perspectives. It's valuable to learn from one another through conversation.
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How to Undo Woke Programming: 2024

Holly’s Newsletter • 2122 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Social Issues Identity politics Cultural critique
  1. College courses can shape how we think about ourselves and others. Some classes may focus too much on victimhood, which can lead to a negative mindset.
  2. It's important to control our reactions when faced with assumptions about ourselves. Choosing kindness instead of anger can lead to better outcomes.
  3. Cultural messages can make us doubt our abilities and feel like victims. It's crucial to challenge these beliefs and recognize our own strength.

On reading Iris Murdoch's The Sea, The sea and why kids these days can't read

Wondering Freely • 991 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Classics Reading Education Cultural critique
  1. Many students today struggle to read long novels and often rely on summaries instead. This shift shows how reading habits have changed in recent years.
  2. Reading literary fiction can be a journey that helps us grow as people. It lets us explore complex characters and their lives, which can lead to self-reflection.
  3. We often feel pressured to be constantly productive, which makes it hard to enjoy reading. It's important to slow down and allow ourselves to simply enjoy a good book.

Why are so many Americans acting like a pack of ghouls?

Noahpinion • 32118 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Social Issues Cultural critique
  1. Some Americans are celebrating violent actions, like murders, instead of condemning them. This shows a worrying shift in how people view morality.
  2. Political figures and media personalities sometimes justify or downplay violence, which can influence public opinion toward accepting such behavior.
  3. Despite these troubling signs, regular Americans might still hold personal morals, but public behavior seems increasingly harsh and unkind, possibly amplified by social media.

Good Lord

benn.substack • 2403 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Media influence Cultural critique Silicon Valley Power Dynamics
  1. Silicon Valley values thinking outside the box and embracing controversial ideas. This mindset pushes people to challenge standard beliefs and foster creativity.
  2. There are tensions between being a free thinker and accepting certain historical truths, like those presented in the 1619 Project. Some ideas challenge core beliefs and make people uncomfortable.
  3. Tech culture has shifted from reckless excess to a more sober approach, but many still wish to return to the old ways of fun and indulgence despite the need for social responsibility.

The Case Against Budget Culture

Culture Study • 6348 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Cultural critique Social norms Consumer behavior
  1. Budget culture often promotes greed and shame about money rather than a healthy relationship with it. Instead of feeling restricted, it’s better to think of money as a tool for living well.
  2. Many people see budgeting as a way to gain control over their finances. However, this mindset can restrict your personal choices and lead to feelings of inadequacy.
  3. Community and generosity should be prioritized over individual wealth accumulation. Sharing resources can foster a supportive environment that reduces financial stress for everyone.

the end of weaponized empathy

bad cattitude • 315 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Cultural critique Political Dynamics Public Sentiment
  1. Some people manipulate others by pretending to be fragile or hurt. This can make it hard for others to say no, even when they should.
  2. Over time, people start to notice when they are being used, which can lead to a breakdown in these manipulative tactics. The strategy stops working as people become less sympathetic.
  3. It's okay to not fix everyone's problems or feel guilty for their struggles. Recognizing this helps protect your own well-being.

Fathoms

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1220 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Cultural critique Activism
  1. The world is overwhelmed with issues like war, pollution, and corporate greed. Many people feel trapped in a cycle of distraction instead of addressing these problems.
  2. There is an underlying peace and wisdom beneath all the chaos and madness. It encourages people to seek deeper understanding and stillness in their lives.
  3. Facing the uncomfortable truths about the world is essential. It's important to move beyond denial and confront the realities we often ignore.

The plane crashed because of…DEI!

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 641 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Tech industry Cultural critique Media Landscape
  1. Some people blame their problems on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) instead of taking responsibility. It's become a catch-all excuse for various issues, making it a controversial topic.
  2. Many tech leaders seem silent or unwilling to comment on political issues, raising questions about their priorities. They might be more focused on their profits rather than ethical or social concerns.
  3. Wealth does not always equal intelligence. Just because someone is rich doesn't mean they are smart or deserving of their success, as shown by failures in both tech and sports leadership.

Luxury Beliefs are Real

Yascha Mounk • 5855 implied HN points • 25 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ideologies Social Issues Cultural critique Public Policy
  1. Luxury beliefs are ideas that rich people can support because they don't face the negative effects, while poorer people may suffer from those very beliefs. It's like having opinions that sound good but aren't thought through.
  2. These beliefs have become popular as rich people can't show off their status with expensive things anymore, so they use opinions instead. But not all people with luxury beliefs are trying to signal status; some might just be naive.
  3. The idea of luxury beliefs applies across different groups, not just to one side of the political spectrum. Many beliefs held by both the rich left and right can have serious consequences for people who actually experience those issues.

The Gulf and the Silence

The Abbey of Misrule • 641 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Philosophy Literature Self-reflection Cultural critique
  1. When the power goes out, life changes a lot. People talk more and do things differently without all the gadgets.
  2. Going without electricity made one family reflect on what they gained and lost with technology. It brought a calm, slower pace to their lives.
  3. Experiencing silence can reveal new rhythms in life, making people appreciate simple moments like reading books and sitting by the fire.

The End of Cheap Progressive Signalling

The Ruffian • 368 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Corporate Governance Social Issues Progressivism Cultural critique
  1. Companies are reassessing their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) due to increased pushback and potential risks. They're realizing that showing support can now have real consequences.
  2. The era of easy progressive signaling is over, forcing companies to reconsider their policies and be more genuine about their commitment to social causes. Some might have to rethink their actions rather than just following trends.
  3. The left needs to evaluate if some of its agenda was based on easy symbols rather than real substance. This shift might help them connect more with everyday people who felt excluded from those discussions.

Virtue Hoarders and the Rejection of Liberalism (w/ Catherine Liu) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 168 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Labor Issues Election Analysis Cultural critique
  1. The professional managerial class (PMC) often ignores the real needs of the working class while focusing on virtue signaling. Instead of addressing issues that affect everyday workers, they get caught up in cultural fights.
  2. There is a growing disconnect between political elites and the realities faced by average Americans. Many politicians prioritize polls and focus groups over genuine conversations with the public.
  3. A strong sense of anti-authoritarianism and a desire for grassroots change exists in America. With the right focus, this discontent could unite people around common goals that benefit the working class.

Mental bric-a-brac

Disaffected Newsletter • 1258 implied HN points • 03 Sep 24
🎭️ Culture Mental health Personal Growth Social Commentary Cultural critique
  1. The word 'autism' has lost its meaning and can refer to many unrelated conditions or traits, making it confusing for people to understand what it really means.
  2. People can change their beliefs over time, especially about deep, personal topics, often through therapy and self-reflection.
  3. Normal, decent people might unknowingly support harmful behaviors because they assume everyone has good intentions, which makes them vulnerable to manipulation.

Book Review: From Bauhaus To Our House

Astral Codex Ten • 24089 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Architecture Design Modernism Cultural critique Art history
  1. Modern architecture started as a reaction against traditional styles and aimed to be functional and non-bourgeois, but many people ended up disliking it.
  2. Even though architects thought their designs were better for society, many real workers preferred the old styles and often complained about the new ones.
  3. The focus on modern architecture continued because top schools and institutions pushed it as the only acceptable style, ignoring the opinions of the general public.

What Elon and H*tler really have in common

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 998 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Public Opinion Current Events Cultural critique Media Analysis
  1. Elon Musk and Hitler are both criticized for their controversial behaviors. Some people think their actions are alarming and must be taken seriously.
  2. The discussion around their actions often mixes humor and harsh reality. It's easier to joke about difficult subjects rather than directly confront them.
  3. Understanding people's behaviors, especially in the case of public figures, requires empathy and careful consideration. It's important to look beyond surface actions.

kitten corner: DOGE derangement syndrome

bad cattitude • 181 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Humor Cultural critique Media Analysis Social Commentary Legal issues
  1. It's not good to make guesses about why someone did something wrong. A legal system should be based on clear evidence, not assumptions.
  2. There's a lot of talk about 'derangement syndrome' related to various people or issues, which can make discussions overly emotional and irrational.
  3. Having strong feelings about a person or a topic can cloud judgment, so it's important to stay objective and focused.

Criminal Minds

Disaffected Newsletter • 759 implied HN points • 09 Sep 24
🎙 Podcasts True Crime Social Issues Mental health Political Commentary Cultural critique
  1. Child abuse is a major factor in violent behavior, as suggested by the case of a young murderer. It's important to understand the home environment of troubled youth.
  2. Society is facing a decline with issues like street violence and controversial influences in media. These problems make it harder for people to feel safe.
  3. There's a mix of unusual news topics and merchandise being advertised. It reflects the unique and sometimes bizarre culture we are living in.

When does Brat summer really end?

Two Pages Double Spaced • 13 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🎶 Music Pop Cultural critique Music videos
  1. Charli XCX's music reflects a shift from the optimistic EDM pop of the early 2010s to a more introspective and urgent sound in her recent work. This change mirrors broader cultural shifts in society.
  2. Her new album, 'Brat,' explores themes of personal reflection and the complexities of self-identity. The lyrics create a connection between the artist and listeners, showing vulnerability and self-awareness.
  3. The concept of 'cool' has evolved, where success and acceptance in the music industry now comes from understanding internet culture and blending it with genuine emotional expression.

Shut up about masculinity

Jeff Giesea • 758 implied HN points • 29 Sep 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Political Discourse Social Dynamics Cultural critique Election Analysis
  1. Masculinity is a big topic right now, but we might be focusing on it too much, especially during the election. It makes sense to consider why this obsession exists and if it's helpful.
  2. There are two main views on masculinity: some believe it's being attacked and needs to be defended, while others think it's outdated and needs to be redefined. Both sides have good points, but extremes in either direction can cause problems.
  3. Instead of tearing down masculinity or rejecting it, we should understand and nurture it while allowing people to be themselves. Finding balance and context for masculinity and femininity can lead to healthier discussions.

‘Am I a Racist?’ Is Brilliant. More Importantly, It's Funny

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 456 implied HN points • 03 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Cultural critique Media Analysis Race relations
  1. Matt Walsh's documentary 'Am I a Racist?' uses humor to criticize the DEI industry and its practices. It shows how some people profit from creating racial tensions.
  2. The film exposes the contradiction in some anti-racist beliefs, where individuals are seen only through their group identity. Walsh highlights the absurdity of these ideas while making the audience laugh.
  3. Alongside the mockery, the film also presents positive examples of people who view others as individuals, suggesting a more constructive way to address racism.

Temple monkeys

Wyclif's Dust • 3219 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Welfare state Public Policy Social Issues Political Commentary Cultural critique
  1. Monkeys at temples in India and Bali can be a nuisance, stealing food and belongings, but they're considered sacred and can't be harmed.
  2. Living close to social issues can be uncomfortable, as it exposes people to the struggles and misery of those less fortunate.
  3. The welfare state often supports those in need, but it can create tension and discomfort for others who see it as a burden rather than a support system.

Fake White Guilt Drove Decades-Long DEI Mania

Public • 545 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Meritocracy Diversity Initiatives Social justice Cultural critique
  1. Individual responsibility is a key principle in the U.S., meaning people are accountable for their own actions rather than the actions of others.
  2. Meritocracy rewards people based on their personal effort and abilities, rather than race or background, which has been important in the fight against racism.
  3. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs argue that historical injustices mean all white people should be seen as privileged, and they recommend actions that consider race instead of just focusing on individual merit.

Don't Be a Sucker

Fake Noûs • 1805 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural critique Social Psychology
  1. Be aware of your desires and biases. Scammers often exploit what you want to believe in order to trick you.
  2. Stories that sound too good to be true usually are. If someone promises you big rewards with little effort, it's likely a scam.
  3. Stay critical and question motivations. If someone is benefiting from a situation, consider if their story is really altruistic.

Literature needs young men more than young men need it

The Intrinsic Perspective • 9247 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Reading Writing Cultural critique Education
  1. Literature is becoming more popular with women, while fewer young men are writing and reading it. This shift raises concerns about the future of literary culture.
  2. Many believe that this decline in male readers is harmful, as reading novels can help improve emotional intelligence and personal understanding.
  3. The argument is made that contemporary literature actually needs young men more than they need literature, suggesting a crucial void in the literary landscape.

Facecrime

Disaffected Newsletter • 839 implied HN points • 19 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Legal system Cultural critique Historical perspectives
  1. The UK is arresting people for how they appear during violent events, showing a serious issue in handling domestic violence.
  2. Older hippies still hold on to their past beliefs and are out of touch with current realities, which raises questions about their views.
  3. There are lessons in recognizing unstable people, highlighting the importance of being aware of our surroundings.

too much is never enough

bookbear express • 1001 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Beauty Standards Body Image Self-Acceptance Cultural critique
  1. Women often feel pressured to meet unrealistic beauty standards, leading to feelings of inadequacy. Many believe they must constantly improve their appearance to be accepted.
  2. There's a cycle of consumption in beauty routines, where buying more products doesn't lead to genuine happiness or self-acceptance. Instead, it can make women feel even more dissatisfied.
  3. Finding a balance between caring for oneself and accepting flaws is important. It's crucial to understand that external changes won't fill emotional gaps.

Palm Beach, Tower D

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 449 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Narrative Themes Cultural critique Dystopia
  1. The Four Towers represent distinct areas of life in a revolutionary society, each with its own culture and traditions. People feel a mix of excitement and anxiety when crossing between these Towers due to their unique customs.
  2. Tower A focuses on transportation, where appointments are needed for travel. Cultural highlights include a beloved drone opera that humorously contrasts its artistic interpretation with its practical origins from the past.
  3. The Ministry of Communication, based in Tower D, reflects changes in how people interact. It encourages a collaborative approach to resolve conflicts rather than deepening divides, showcasing how communication has evolved since the revolution.

The Internet Is Killing Science Too

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 1278 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🔬 Science Scientific Method Philosophy of science Information Technology Cultural critique Epistemology
  1. The internet is transforming or even damaging traditional science, just like it has affected many other institutions over the years. As our way of sharing information changes, the understanding of what science is also shifts.
  2. There seems to be a growing shift from studying real-world objects and events to focusing on models and simulations instead. This might weaken the connection science has with actual reality, making it more about data interpretation than discovering the physical world.
  3. People are increasingly more interested in studying the process of knowledge rather than the world itself. This change indicates a cultural shift where real-world exploration is becoming less relevant compared to understanding ideas and identities.

Stop with the weird masculinity tropes, Trump supporters

Jeff Giesea • 1197 implied HN points • 30 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Masculinity Gender Political Rhetoric Election Dynamics Cultural critique
  1. Using weird masculinity insults can turn people off and alienate groups like women and the LGBTQ+ community. It's not cool to insult others based on gender or sexual orientation.
  2. True masculinity should be about protecting and respecting others, not bullying them or making them feel insecure. Real strength comes from being confident without needing to tear others down.
  3. Being part of a movement means building bridges and finding common ground, not just mocking opponents. The Harris campaign is doing a better job of bringing people together and organizing effectively.

What's wrong with Pride

Disaffected Newsletter • 899 implied HN points • 12 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture LGBTQ+ Social Issues Identity politics Cultural critique
  1. Pride started as a movement for legal rights, but it also involved a lot of partying and wild behavior among gay men.
  2. The gay community naturally had a mix of ideas that made it vulnerable to more extreme views from trans and queer groups.
  3. The changes in the Pride movement weren't forced from the outside; they were expected developments within the community.

On Millennial Snot

The Upheaval • 5276 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Cultural critique Liberalism Generational Dynamics Public Perception
  1. Millennial Snot describes the trendy, snarky way that some elites talk today, making serious topics feel unserious. It's like a mix of teen slang and sarcasm that feels immature.
  2. This speech style reflects the struggles of millennials to balance their youthful identity with adult responsibilities. They often use this casual tone to cope with feelings of inadequacy and a desire to stay 'cool.'
  3. Millennial Snot may be fading as younger generations like Gen Z start to find it cringe-worthy. There’s a shift back toward sincerity and real communication as a response to the overly snarky discourse.

2024 Was the Year I Didn't Change Much

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 2633 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Ideological analysis Cultural critique Immigration Policy
  1. The writer feels more confident that mainstream political science accurately describes society, as there's no sign of a democracy in crisis and the economy is growing well.
  2. The writer has become disillusioned with the Tech Right, observing that talented individuals in right-wing circles can start falling for misinformation and conspiracy theories.
  3. Despite facing criticism, the writer values intellectual honesty over maintaining friendships, believing it’s essential to prioritize truth and integrity in discussions about politics and social issues.

Universal Civilisation or Cultural Decadence?

Glenn’s Substack • 559 implied HN points • 27 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture International Soft Power Liberalism Cultural critique
  1. Culture plays a big role in international politics, and France has a strong history of embracing cosmopolitanism.
  2. The opening ceremony of the Olympics may be seen as a show of tolerance, but it also has contradictions regarding accepting criticism.
  3. Liberal societies often struggle with tolerance for different opinions, especially about issues like immigration and gender, which can create cultural pressure to conform.

HOISTED FROM A YEAR AGO: Why Is There No Gentry-Massacring Peasant Jacquerie in "Pride & Prejudice"?

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 169 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
📚 Literature Classics Historical Fiction Analysis Social Commentary Cultural critique
  1. Mr. Bennet from 'Pride and Prejudice' has a lot of income from his estate compared to typical workers, raising questions about his wealth. His lifestyle reflects a significant gap from the common folk who earn much less.
  2. Historically, landowners like Mr. Bennet didn't rely on battle skills for their wealth, unlike knights of the past. Their wealth comes from owning land and having no direct skills to justify their social standing.
  3. While France faced revolts that changed the system and broke down feudal privileges, England managed to avoid such upheaval. This difference shaped the future of the social classes in both countries.

Does your politics affect your art?

Science of Art • 59 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Modern Art Art history Cultural critique Art Techniques
  1. Artists can hold different political views and still create art that appeals to a wide audience. For example, Norman Rockwell had liberal beliefs but often illustrated conservative themes.
  2. The way an artist views uncertainty in the world can influence their art style. People comfortable with ambiguity may prefer abstract art, while those seeking certainty might lean towards realistic works.
  3. Art reflects both society and the inner feelings of the artist. Successful art aligns with the era's spirit and resonates with the public, regardless of the artist's political leanings.