The hottest Cultural critique Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Art & Illustration Topics

The Price Of Orthodoxies

The Weekly Dish • 186 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Social Issues Media Criticism Cultural critique Justice System
  1. Orthodoxies can make us ignore hard truths and the suffering of others. They create blind spots that can hide serious issues.
  2. When we stick too closely to a certain belief or idea, we might miss out on understanding the full picture of what's really happening.
  3. It's important to challenge our beliefs and stay open to new information, so we can see and address injustices.

My Mormon Obsession

Castalia • 499 implied HN points • 24 Jul 24
📚 Literature Essays Fiction History Biography Cultural critique
  1. The author has written two novels about Mormonism, despite having no personal connection to the religion. They find the history and stories surrounding Mormonism fascinating.
  2. Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism, had a unique background that influenced his development as a leader. His early life was marked by treasure hunting and a strong sense of individualism.
  3. Mormonism grew in a time of religious enthusiasm and many followers were drawn to its intellectual appeal. Smith's charisma and the communal experiences helped shape the church's early success.

In latest effort to deny reality, leftist German word police announce that a standard colloquialism for 'ethnic German' is racist, exclusionary and antidemocratic

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 224 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural critique Racism Political Discourse Identity politics
  1. In Germany, there's a group that decides every year on a word they find unacceptable, calling it the 'Unword of the Year.' This word is often seen as politically incorrect.
  2. The latest 'Unword' chosen is 'biodeutsch,' which means ethnic German. This term is now said to be racist, even though it was originally used to highlight distinctions in identity.
  3. 'Unwords' aim to create awareness about harmful language, but critics argue it actually limits free speech and the ability to discuss cultural identities openly.

More on the Vibes Shift, Alexander the Great, Elderly Mobsters, and More

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 1194 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Dynamics Government Policy Cultural critique Populism Historical Analysis
  1. The discovery of Propecia for hair loss came from studying children in the Dominican Republic who had unique genital characteristics. This led to the development of a drug that helps prevent hair loss by replicating a natural enzyme deficiency.
  2. In South Korea, older people are becoming involved in right-wing politics, similar to trends seen in the U.S. This shows how different generations can align politically for various reasons, often driven by fear or conspiracy beliefs.
  3. The shift in Silicon Valley regarding corporate power highlights that political influence often outweighs economic power. Companies can change their policies quickly under political pressure, showing that government authority is central to real power.

The Future of Reading

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 794 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
📚 Literature Reading Writing Cultural critique Media theory Literary Trends
  1. Reading and writing are changing as new technologies emerge. The way people engage with texts is evolving, such as using visual signs and orality, like in Snapchat.
  2. Young people are still writing a lot, especially through fan fiction, even if it's different from traditional literature. This form of writing allows them to express their creativity.
  3. There are concerns that the current generation is losing interest in classic literature, but there are ideas on how to make these works more appealing to young readers. Solutions may include breaking up long books into smaller, more engaging editions.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Homosexuals: this is a turning point

Disaffected Newsletter • 4516 implied HN points • 16 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural critique Social Commentary Political Discourse Public Perception
  1. The recent incident in the Senate highlights a cultural decline that needs addressing. It's important to recognize that many people are rightly disgusted by it.
  2. Homosexuals should not react defensively but align with the broader public. Acknowledging shared values like decency and respect can help build connections.
  3. Our society is facing serious issues, and finding common ground with straights and conservatives can lead to a collective effort to restore order and sanity.

Everyone is Now Middle Class

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

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 539 implied HN points • 03 Jul 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Non-fiction Cultural critique Historical Analysis
  1. Vinson Cunningham's _Great Expectations_ blends personal reflections and cultural commentary but lacks a clear story structure, leaving readers unsure of its purpose. The writing feels overdone at times, trying to impress rather than convey meaningful insights.
  2. Hugh Wilford's _The CIA: An Imperial History_ offers a comprehensive look at the CIA's role in American foreign policy, framing it as an imperial organization rather than a mere intelligence agency. It dives into the agency's history without dwelling on popular conspiracy theories, presenting a more nuanced view.
  3. Both authors highlight a disconnect between personal experiences and broader cultural narratives. Cunningham struggles to make his memories relevant, while Wilford presents the CIA's actions as complex but often poorly understood, emphasizing that there's more to uncover about the agency's true impact.

It’s Rational And Humane To Lack Strong Political Beliefs

Singal-Minded • 724 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Beliefs Social media Emotional Health Cultural critique
  1. It's okay to not have strong political beliefs. Beliefs can be complicated, and it's normal to feel uncertain about many issues.
  2. Getting too emotional about every news story can be unhealthy. It's better to approach complex situations with a level head instead of distress.
  3. Having a few things you care about deeply is more sustainable than feeling pressured to take a strong stand on everything. Focus on what really matters to you.

Beautiful Monsters

Seven Senses • 559 implied HN points • 29 Jun 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Art Theory Morality Censorship Cultural critique
  1. It's tough to separate an artist's bad behavior from their art. Many people wonder if enjoying a piece of art makes them part of the artist's wrong actions.
  2. Our choices in what art we support reflect our values. Boycotting artists and products can feel empowering, but true change often requires focusing on the larger systems that let harmful actions happen.
  3. It's important to recognize that artists might be both good and bad, like 'beautiful monsters'. This complexity challenges us to think deeply about our feelings towards their work and our own behavior.

The Political Miscalculation of the "Squid Game" Rebellion And How To Avoid It In Real Life

JoeWrote • 29 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Capitalism Cultural critique Media Analysis Social movements
  1. _Squid Game_ reflects the harsh realities of capitalism and how it affects people's lives. The show serves as a warning about chasing wealth and the struggle between different classes.
  2. Despite its anti-capitalist message, many viewers misunderstand the show and view it as a celebration of capitalism. This shows how deeply some individuals can miss the real critique being presented.
  3. In the upcoming season, the characters will focus on fighting against the oppressive system. Their mistakes in planning a rebellion mirror real-life struggles faced by working-class movements.

The Gramsci Gap

Breaking Smart • 94 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Political theory Marxism Etymology Cultural critique
  1. The 'Gramsci Gap' talks about a time when old systems are fading and new ones are struggling to emerge. It's a confusing period filled with strange and troubling events.
  2. It connects ideas of power and control, showing how rulers and the rules they create influence society. Both individual actions and larger systems can produce negative effects.
  3. Understanding this gap helps us recognize how both personal decisions and structural issues can create problems, pointing to the need for change in how we govern and relate to one another.

Donald and the Pincer

The Abbey of Misrule • 498 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political trends Populism Media influence Cultural critique Globalization
  1. Many people feel frustrated with the political and media establishment, and they want change. This feeling is similar to what led to movements like Brexit and the rise of populist parties.
  2. Progressive leftism and corporate capitalism are working together more than ever. Both are promoting a modern world that values technology and globalism, often ignoring local traditions and cultures.
  3. There's a growing push for a different approach rooted in local identities and community values. Some believe we need to focus on what truly matters in our lives, rather than getting caught up in modern political divisions.

How Catturd Made Me a Better Person

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 2267 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social influence Public Perception Cultural critique
  1. People can learn from both positive and negative role models. It's important to focus on the ideas of others rather than their personal traits.
  2. Our behavior can be shaped by how others behave, so it's good to admire the right people and reject the wrong ones.
  3. Having a strong value system helps us choose who to look up to and who to avoid in our lives.

A Defense of Rural Dwellers

The Analog Family • 1159 implied HN points • 23 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Media representation Cultural critique
  1. Rural living offers deep connections to nature and solitude, which many people find valuable. This lifestyle allows for a unique way of experiencing the seasons and understanding the environment.
  2. There is a cultural divide between urban and rural people, with rural dwellers facing stereotypes and mockery. Society often sees rural lifestyles as less desirable or even inferior, but this isn't fair or accurate.
  3. Rural people often possess practical skills and a strong sense of community. They embrace a simpler way of life that can lead to deeper reflection and fulfillment, contrasting sharply with the hustle and bustle of city living.

Just Don't Do It: The Hidden Virtues of Quitting

OK Doomer • 144 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Decision-making Existentialism Cultural critique Psychology
  1. Quitting can be a tough decision, but sometimes it's the right one. It takes strength and discipline to walk away from something that isn't working out.
  2. Many people struggle with the idea of quitting due to societal pressure to always push forward. Learning when to stop can lead to a healthier mindset and better choices.
  3. The fear of stopping or changing paths can lead to bigger issues in society, such as unrealistic expectations for endless growth. It's okay to aim for balance and recognize when to take a step back.

subverting human flourishing

bad cattitude • 185 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Marxism Gender Politics Cultural critique Social theory
  1. Marxism promotes ideas that often disrupt successful societies. It's believed that these ideas need to be imposed because they aren’t naturally accepted.
  2. Attempts to change human nature and society according to ideological beliefs often lead to negative outcomes. History shows that these changes can result in great harm.
  3. Arguments that promise improvement through radical social change are seen as misleading. People should be cautious and recognize that what works within a society is usually effective for a reason.

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.

Jean Laplanche and the Unfinished Copernican Revolution

Five’s Substack • 259 implied HN points • 24 Jul 24
📖 Philosophy Psychoanalysis Cultural critique
  1. Laplanche's theory of general seduction suggests that our earliest interactions shape our unconscious. Instead of just focusing on adult experiences, he emphasizes the importance of early relationships and how they influence our identity.
  2. He argues that the Copernican Revolution is unfinished, meaning that humanity hasn't fully accepted its place in a universe that lacks a central point. This challenge raises questions about knowledge and how we define ourselves.
  3. In the therapy process, confusion often stems from unresolved feelings about our early relationships. People may spend their lives trying to understand what others want from them, leading to a cycle of creating fantasies to avoid confronting the original mysteries of their experiences.

My Number One Issue

In My Tribe • 1655 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🚌 Education Higher education Intellectualism Social Issues Cultural critique Critical Thinking
  1. Higher education is facing an anti-intellectual trend. Many students are taught to think simply about identity, rather than critically.
  2. The growth of colleges and universities has led to a decline in intellectual quality. More students don't necessarily mean better thinking; it can create mediocrity.
  3. There's a need for new educational institutions for young people. Current colleges may not be fixable, and we need alternatives to support thoughtful learning.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 519 implied HN points • 14 Jun 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Memoirs Fiction Cultural critique Contemporary Issues
  1. Adelle Waldman's new book, _Help Wanted_, is based on her real experiences working with warehouse employees. While it's well-researched, it feels more like observing the workers than authentically capturing their lives.
  2. Glenn Loury's memoir, _Late Admissions_, dives into his complex life and the internal struggles he faces. It's not about trying to fit into one idea but exploring his multiple identities and contradictions.
  3. Both books highlight the challenges of representing people's real experiences. Waldman struggles with the class divide in storytelling, while Loury reflects on personal conflicts that make his journey relatable yet complicated.

Procrastination bric-a-brac

Disaffected Newsletter • 1218 implied HN points • 26 Mar 24
😂 Humor Satire Commentary Personal essays Cultural critique Social Commentary
  1. Procrastination can lead to random thoughts and observations, often making it hard to focus. It's okay to let your mind wander sometimes, even if it feels unproductive.
  2. Frustration with social media is common, especially with annoying accounts. It's important to take control of your online experience by blocking or ignoring negative distractions.
  3. Humor can be found in everyday annoyances, like pointless things we buy or use. It’s good to laugh at silly things, like complicated salt grinders.

Wokeness Poisons Science

Skeptic • 158 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🔬 Science Scientific Method Education Research Ethics Gender Studies Cultural critique
  1. Wokeness is changing how science is done, affecting hiring practices and funding by introducing criteria based on identity rather than merit. This can lead to important scientific work being overlooked if it doesn't align with social justice agendas.
  2. The focus on equality of outcomes instead of opportunities can create flawed policies. It assumes that any inequality in outcomes is solely due to discrimination, ignoring factors like personal choice, abilities, and luck.
  3. Academia is experiencing a shift where free speech and diverse viewpoints are increasingly suppressed. Criticism of woke ideology can lead to severe backlash and censorship, stifling honest discussions in scientific fields.

The Year

Unpopular Front • 96 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
📚 Literature Book Publishing Civic engagement Cultural critique Personal narratives
  1. This year was a mix of personal success and global challenges. Publishing a book felt great, but the issues it discussed became more real and troubling.
  2. The situation in Gaza highlighted deep contradictions in the Western view of human rights. It raises questions about how genuinely nations stand for freedom when their actions show otherwise.
  3. Reflecting on history reminds us of the importance of knowledge and storytelling. Even amidst loss, like a destroyed bookstore, preserving books symbolizes hope and continuity.

Chronicling the fall

Disaffected Newsletter • 1338 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Media Analysis Cultural critique Public Discourse
  1. There is a sense of hopelessness and despair, as the world feels increasingly frightening and chaotic. Many people are struggling with their own sadness and depression while also being affected by the broader issues happening around them.
  2. The idea of being 'woke' and its widespread influence suggests that no community or belief system is untouched by this mentality. It's a call to recognize that these societal shifts are pervasive and can't be ignored.
  3. The urgency to push back against these negative trends is emphasized, warning that if we don't act, we might lose the safe spaces we once had. It's crucial to engage in discussions and take action to change the narrative.

Absurd Comedy Predicts the Future

Points And Figures • 559 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
😂 Humor Absurdism Comedy Satire Cultural critique Social Commentary
  1. Absurd comedy often reflects real-life situations in funny ways. It can highlight the bizarre aspects of society and how they develop over time.
  2. Some modern self-defense methods seem ridiculous, like using towels. This shows how far we've come in talking about safety in unusual ways.
  3. Comedians like Monty Python can predict trends and issues that become relevant much later. Their humor still resonates and offers insight into future problems.

Oh no! Not episode 169!

Disaffected Newsletter • 639 implied HN points • 29 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Legal issues Government Policy Cultural critique Media Analysis
  1. Freaky Friday is no longer just one day; it feels like every day is weird and exaggerated in America. People are talking about strange things like AI girlfriends and AI that can be racist.
  2. New laws are causing confusion about gender rights, and there's concern over 'hate speech' becoming a real legal issue. It's raising alarms about people's freedoms and rights.
  3. Political ads have reached a bizarre level, with some campaigns resembling dystopian themes. There's also worry about hiring practices focused on race, leading to debates about fairness and legality.

Mastering Irreverence

Polymathic Being • 85 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Stoicism Existentialism Ethics Aesthetics Cultural critique
  1. Irreverence helps us see the truth behind societal norms and values. By questioning these, we can break free from the distractions that keep us from what truly matters.
  2. Reverence allows us to appreciate the beauty and wonder in life. Feeling awe for nature or art can elevate our mood and give us a sense of connection to something greater.
  3. Balancing irreverence and reverence is essential for clear thinking and meaningful living. We need both to challenge old ideas while also grounding ourselves in what gives life depth and value.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 379 implied HN points • 29 May 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Non-fiction Cultural critique
  1. Emma Cline's book _The Guest_ presents a strong narrative about class dynamics, where the main character navigates different social strata, showcasing how perception varies between the wealthy and the underprivileged.
  2. Nellie Bowles' _Morning After The Revolution_ explores the rise and consequences of woke culture in society, illustrating the challenges and contradictions that arose from good intentions.
  3. Both authors highlight the complexities of modern social issues, with Cline focusing on personal dynamics within class structures, and Bowles reflecting on the broader cultural shifts related to social movements.

"DIY"

Nice Try • 319 implied HN points • 05 Jun 24
📚 Literature Essays Memoir Cultural critique Writing
  1. The essay discusses the myths about doing things on your own, known as 'DIY'.
  2. It emphasizes that being self-taught or an 'autodidact' isn't always as straightforward as it seems.
  3. A key point is knowing how to find information is more important than memorizing everything.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 419 implied HN points • 27 Apr 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Non-fiction Cultural critique Psychology Foreign Policy
  1. The Biden administration faced tough challenges early on, especially with issues like the withdrawal from Afghanistan. This decision had big consequences, as it hinted at U.S. weaknesses that adversaries like Putin could sense.
  2. There’s a concerning rise in anxiety and depression among kids today, largely due to smartphones and social media. These tools have changed how children grow and interact with the world around them.
  3. Haidt suggests that to help kids, we should limit their access to smartphones and social media. But it seems hard to implement these changes in today's digital age, as technology has fundamentally reshaped our lives.

Feminists: tell me what you believe?

Disaffected Newsletter • 1278 implied HN points • 01 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism Gender Studies Identity politics Social movements Cultural critique
  1. Feminism means different things to different people. It's important for individuals to share their personal definitions and beliefs about feminism.
  2. Supporting equal rights for women doesn't necessarily mean someone identifies as a feminist. Some believe those rights can be supported without using the term 'feminism.'
  3. There's a chance that arguments over feminism arise from misunderstandings of the term. People might think they disagree when their definitions are just different.

Daft Spunk

Heterodox STEM • 206 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Gender Issues Public Policy Social Dynamics Cultural critique
  1. Many men are avoiding university because they feel outnumbered by women and see fewer opportunities for relationships. This trend reflects a change in the gender dynamics at schools.
  2. The university environment is increasingly seen as accommodating to women while being less appealing to men. This might lead men to pursue different paths for their careers.
  3. There are concerns about how the current educational focus on diversity and inclusion is affecting the overall representation of men in universities, possibly impacting future relationships and social dynamics.

3 poems from the sports section

Austin Kleon • 1498 implied HN points • 24 Oct 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Poetry Visual Arts Creative Writing Cultural critique
  1. The sports section of newspapers is great for crafting blackouts because of the simple and expressive language used by athletes and coaches.
  2. Even though the New York Times recently disbanded its sports department, this section continues to inspire creative writing.
  3. Using nouns and verbs from sports articles can help create interesting and relatable poetry, highlighting themes like time and idleness.

Zoomers, Video Games, and The New Culture

Trantor Publishing • 758 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Youth culture Cultural critique Social Interaction Counterculture
  1. Zoomers are facing challenges in various aspects of life like mental health and education due to factors from the past. The struggles of the youth reflect societal issues accumulated over time.
  2. The digital world, including video games, has become a significant part of Zoomers' lives, impacting how they engage with culture and consume media. Modern entertainment focuses more on prolonged engagement rather than quality.
  3. To address societal challenges and engage with younger generations effectively, there is a need to create shared cultural experiences and provide opportunities for meaningful connection and competition beyond digital distractions.

Disaffected: Episode 160, Feb 24, 2024

Disaffected Newsletter • 639 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Analysis Cultural critique Personal Stories
  1. The media is blaming Libs of TikTok for a tragic event involving a non-binary girl, showing how exploitation occurs in society. It's important to see how such narratives can harm communities.
  2. The episode includes a fun segment revisiting humorous stereotypes about liberal white women and features a look at Eric Adams' approach to kids and safety. This mix of humor and politics makes for an entertaining listen.
  3. There's a noticeable trend in TV shows where characters often depict women as strong figures while men are shown as foolish. The discussion seeks to explain why this character dynamic is so common in media today.

The art of forgery

Austin Kleon • 1438 implied HN points • 17 Oct 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Art history Authenticity Creativity Cultural critique
  1. Forging art means giving credit to someone else for work you create, while plagiarism is taking credit for someone else's work. It's about the effort you put into creating something.
  2. Art forgery requires a lot of skill, and sometimes forgers become as famous as the original artists. For example, Han van Meegeren became well-known for his skill in copying famous painters.
  3. Forgers often have their own reasons for their work, sometimes even out of frustration with the art world. This can lead them to excel in their craft, creating impressive forgeries that fetch high prices.

Links to Consider, 12/3/2024

In My Tribe • 440 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Mental health Criminal Justice Cultural critique
  1. Shaming and judging behavior is part of all cultures, but today's society often ignores harmful actions while focusing on different issues.
  2. To improve K-12 education, it's suggested to hire teachers based on their expertise in specific subjects rather than their credentials alone.
  3. Radical ideologies can be harmful because they often distract from real issues and the mental health struggles of those who promote them.

Don't play 'Tower of Babel'

Disaffected Newsletter • 1518 implied HN points • 11 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Cultural critique Linguistics Progressivism Identity politics
  1. Many people who have changed their political views still deal with old emotional triggers. These triggers affect how they think and react to various situations.
  2. Using the same terms and language from old beliefs can undermine one's current views. It's important to recognize that language carries meaning and implications.
  3. Some new terms, like 'the unhoused' or 'sex work,' might seem harmless but can actually reinforce old beliefs and ideas. It's worth questioning the language we choose to use.