The hottest Cultural critique Substack posts right now

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We Have to Go Back

Paroxysms • 179 implied HN points • 24 Aug 22
🎭️ Culture Cultural critique
  1. The show 'The Resort' uses old technologies to explore human connections in a hypermediatized world.
  2. Streaming platforms releasing episodes weekly create a sense of anticipation like traditional TV viewing.
  3. Nostalgia for the past can be a way to critique or react against the complexities of the present.

sunday meanpool (not safe for anyone)

bad cattitude • 119 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
😂 Humor Cultural critique
  1. The humor from the past was more enjoyable and fun. It's something many people miss.
  2. The idea of needing to cross back into that humor suggests a desire for lighter, more carefree conversations.
  3. The focus is on creating an environment that's less serious and more entertaining for everyone.

The Year

Unpopular Front • 96 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
📚 Literature Cultural critique
  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.

Curator

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 30 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural critique
  1. Wokeness is seen by some as a call for a fresh start, especially within the Black community, moving away from past injustices towards a new political entity.
  2. Ernst Junger's writings highlight a fascination with death and a disdain for boring, comfortable living, linking militarism to a critique of modern society.
  3. A.O. Scott's retirement from film criticism signals changes in how movies are perceived, and the role of reviews in shaping art is being questioned as they affect creators deeply.

Mastering Irreverence

Polymathic Being • 85 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy 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.
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Friday Funnies: The Myth of the Mad King

Who is Robert Malone • 32 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
😂 Humor Cultural critique
  1. Taking care of your property can be a lot of work, like fixing leaks and maintaining buildings. It's important to stay on top of these tasks to keep everything in good shape.
  2. Weather can greatly affect your plans, especially when it comes to gardening. Keeping track of temperature and humidity helps in deciding what needs watering.
  3. Animal care is just as important; checking on expecting animals ensures they are healthy. Regular vet visits can help you keep track of their well-being.

Six Theories About Why Comedy Movies Died

I Might Be Wrong • 6 implied HN points • 03 Dec 25
😂 Humor Cultural critique
  1. Comedy movies are becoming less common in Hollywood today. The best comedies list includes mostly older films, indicating a sharp decline in new comedic content.
  2. Recently released comedies aren't making it big like they used to. The last decade has seen very few comedies that stand out or resonate with audiences.
  3. People are questioning why comedies aren't working anymore. There's a lot of speculation about what has changed in the entertainment industry that affected comedy films.

My Vapid Generation

Castalia • 139 implied HN points • 15 Nov 22
🎭️ Culture Cultural critique
  1. The internet changed how we communicate and share information, making it hard to escape its influence. People became obsessed with social media and online status, which reshaped our values and interactions.
  2. My generation was the first to really fall for these new technologies, often being too trusting and optimistic about their impact. As a result, we ended up being perfect subjects for this digital experiment.
  3. Looking back, we realize our lack of interest in history and important issues made us complacent. This led to an era where our choices and behaviors contributed to our own troubles in the digital world.

Sex, Violence, and Cognitive Prisons

Journal of Free Black Thought • 21 implied HN points • 28 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural critique
  1. Science should focus on facts without being influenced by personal beliefs or ideologies. Keeping scientific information objective helps everyone understand issues better and make informed decisions.
  2. Gender and biological sex are different, and confusing them can lead to misunderstandings in research. It's important to clarify these terms for clearer communication and accurate results.
  3. Addressing concerns around safety and fear should consider human nature and perceptions. Understanding the reasons behind fear can lead to more effective solutions rather than relying on ideological perspectives.

Artist Profile: Dena Yago, by Günseli Yalcinkaya

Do Not Research • 59 implied HN points • 23 Feb 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Cultural critique
  1. Being an artist in the age of social media means navigating the intersection of art and commerce, where the artists' creations and online presence get quantified and exploited
  2. Collaborative platforms like Are.na and collectives like K-HOLE have been vital in forming connections and providing alternative spaces for artists to create and share their work
  3. Dena Yago's art explores complex societal issues through familiar cultural symbols, reflecting the challenges artists face in balancing commercial work, art practice, and navigating the gig economy

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 06 Nov 22
📚 Literature Cultural critique
  1. In 'The Family Chao', the story explores the complexities of immigrant life in America through quirky characters, but struggles to fully connect their experiences and motivations. It uses a blend of humor and drama to highlight the challenges of cultural assimilation.
  2. Raymond Geuss's 'Not Thinking Like A Liberal' offers a unique perspective on education and community, contrasting Catholic and Protestant viewpoints. He emphasizes how being raised in a different cultural environment can provide valuable insights that challenge mainstream liberal ideas.
  3. Both books share a theme of questioning societal narratives. While 'The Family Chao' delves into personal identity against a cultural backdrop, Geuss critiques liberalism's shortcomings, suggesting that our understanding of society is more complex than commonly accepted beliefs.

Bard Meme Lab: DEEP STATE Multimedia Installation

Do Not Research • 39 implied HN points • 17 Jul 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Cultural critique
  1. The DEEP STATE Multimedia Installation by Bard Meme Lab at Bard College featured a variety of artists, performers, and curators
  2. The project called 'Deep State' challenged viewers to rethink truth and fiction, and virtue and sin as categories to be played with
  3. The exhibition featured a range of artworks exploring themes like engineered godliness, organic leanings, and sexy aesthetics

A Night at the Garden

Unpopular Front • 67 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural critique
  1. Trump's public persona is a lot like a pro wrestler. He swings between being a hero and a villain, and this theatrical style draws people in.
  2. There's a connection between Trump's political events and wrestling shows. Both aim to entertain and provoke strong reactions from the audience.
  3. The idea of justice in wrestling often relies on breaking rules for a satisfying outcome. Similarly, Trump's approach to politics breaks norms, appealing to those who feel overlooked or humiliated.

Why Is the U.S. Destroying Itself Now?

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 25 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural critique
  1. The foundation of modern Western civilization has flaws that may lead to its downfall. Its focus on individualism and a disconnect from nature contributes to this decline.
  2. There is a growing divide between wealthy elites and the struggling working class, creating resentment and potential conflict. The elite may not realize the extent of this divide and the consequences it brings.
  3. As AI and technology evolve, white-collar workers may face job loss, similar to what blue-collar workers have experienced. This shift could unite different classes and spark a new movement for change.

Feed experiences

Internal exile • 67 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🎶 Music Cultural critique
  1. Many artists, like Catbreath, use clever tricks to get listens on streaming platforms. This shows how the music industry can sometimes reward unconventional strategies over traditional talent.
  2. Streaming services like Spotify may prioritize ads over genuine music experiences. This can lead listeners to rely on algorithms to pick their music, which might reduce their enjoyment and personal connection to songs.
  3. The rise of AI in content creation can lead to a lack of authentic experiences. Instead of meaningful interactions, people might just consume whatever the algorithms suggest, which can make everyone feel more isolated.

Drunk on the Narrative

Charles Eisenstein • 2 implied HN points • 11 Jan 26
📖 Philosophy Cultural critique
  1. A second video in the Sanity Project 2026 series has been released, and more short videos will be posted frequently.
  2. Comments on the Substack videos are being turned off to avoid spreading the creator too thin, and discussion is being moved to a dedicated forum on Mighty Networks (naascommunity.org).
  3. The Substack is reader-supported and readers are invited to subscribe or support the work with a free or paid subscription.

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 Cultural critique
  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.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 12 Jul 22
📚 Literature Cultural critique
  1. Ocean Vuong's writing is often seen as powerful but can be overly sentimental and filled with clichés. Critics argue that this style makes the meaning less clear.
  2. Jill Lepore's book discusses the early tech company Simulmatics and how its ideas of data and manipulation have shaped today's technology landscape. She highlights how these concepts were developed long before modern tech emerged.
  3. Lepore stresses the importance of understanding the history behind Silicon Valley innovation. She argues that many ideas considered new today actually have roots in past government and corporate projects.

Meditations on Machinic Desire

Nothing Human • 57 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Cultural critique
  1. We are moving towards a future where artificial intelligence may surpass human intelligence, and it might happen gradually rather than suddenly. This means machines could take over many tasks we currently do without a clear turning point.
  2. The idea of capitalism is being explored as something that may harm our human nature. It could act like a virus that drives us to work endlessly for money, rather than for meaningful relationships or experiences.
  3. Our desires are becoming more virtual and less tied to reality. Instead of wanting real things, we often find ourselves chasing numbers or metrics, which can make us less happy even as society becomes more prosperous.

What Are the Rules for Jokes About Someone’s Appearance?

I Might Be Wrong • 14 implied HN points • 29 Jul 25
😂 Humor Cultural critique
  1. There are no clear rules for making jokes about someone's appearance, and comedians often have to guess what’s acceptable. Reactions from the audience can be very unpredictable.
  2. When making jokes about appearances, it's better to focus on the actions people choose that lead to their looks, rather than mocking them for how they naturally appear. This helps keep the humor relatable and fair.
  3. Everyone, regardless of gender, should be under the same rules when it comes to jokes about appearance. Creating different rules for different groups can lead to confusion and unfairness.

In Search of Artistic Integrity

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 11 Feb 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Cultural critique
  1. The book 'Foodie' seems to be intentionally obscure, and the author chose anonymity to focus on genuine artistic expression rather than popularity. This suggests that true art can exist without the need for a large audience.
  2. Guy Debord's idea of the 'society of the spectacle' highlights how society values appearances more than substance. This shift makes being an artist more about social media presence than the quality of work.
  3. Authentic art is not about making money or gaining fame; it's about connecting with others and expressing true emotions. Artists should focus on their work rather than trying to be famous.

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 Cultural critique
  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.

Us feminists really did kill marriage

Sex and the State • 30 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural critique
  1. Marriage rates are going down in many countries, and it's important to understand why this is happening. Some people think it's due to modern influences, but the reasons are more complex.
  2. Conservatives sometimes blame feminists for this decline, and while they might have a point, it's important to understand the full picture. Feminists often criticize marriage and family structures as outdated or oppressive.
  3. Some feminists actually support the idea of abolishing marriage altogether. This has led to different views on relationships and family, impacting how society sees them today.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 39 implied HN points • 24 Feb 23
📚 Literature Cultural critique
  1. The 2022 O. Henry Prize Winners collection shows little innovation in short story writing, mainly leaning towards gritty realism or magical realism, with some disappointments in quality.
  2. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s short story ‘Zikora’ stands out for its honest depiction of childbirth from a woman's perspective, showcasing deep emotional truths.
  3. Isaac Butler's book 'The Method' explores how acting techniques influence cultural identity, suggesting that the shift towards naturalism in acting reflects broader societal changes in the 20th century.

Sunday Strip: The Free Market of Ideas

Who is Robert Malone • 31 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural critique
  1. The free market of ideas allows for many opinions and discussions to thrive. It's important to hear different views to understand complex issues better.
  2. Some believe that modern feminism has shifted focus from equality to unfair treatment of men. This change can create misunderstandings and conflicts in relationships.
  3. Engaging in conversations, like the one between Russell Brand and Robert Malone, helps spread various viewpoints. It's fun and insightful to share ideas and learn from one another.

Curator

Castalia • 39 implied HN points • 05 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Cultural critique
  1. Technical disaster movies highlight how human mistakes can lead to disastrous situations. They show the gap between experts and the public and how technical problems often arise from neglect or poor management.
  2. Friedrich Hayek argued that central planning by a few people can't effectively manage complex markets. He believed that knowledge is dispersed and that no single authority can understand or control the economy completely.
  3. Gnosticism is compared to technocracy, seen as a challenge to rational thought. There's a belief that while technocrats think they have everything figured out, human searches for meaning and truth are still important and should not be ignored.

I Begged Them to Let Me Cover the Iran War but Here Is My Report on the Diddy Trial

I Might Be Wrong • 9 implied HN points • 03 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural critique
  1. The author feels frustrated because instead of covering an important topic like the Iran war, they were assigned to report on Sean Combs' trial, which they consider less significant.
  2. Despite their experience as a war correspondent, they feel insulted by their editor's decisions and believe that the more sensational story about Diddy is prioritized over important world events.
  3. They are dealing with personal feelings of longing as they try to reconnect with a former colleague from their past, but are hindered by communication issues and their unwanted assignment.

Artificial Worlds and Natural Worlds

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 7 implied HN points • 06 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Cultural critique
  1. There is a big difference between the artificial world we create and the natural world around us. Real happiness comes from connecting with nature instead of relying on man-made things.
  2. Using tools and technology has been part of being human, but if we only focus on artificial creations, we risk losing touch with the essential parts of life that nature provides.
  3. As we develop advanced technologies like AI, we must be careful. If we don't keep it in check, it could cause serious problems, but it also has the potential to help us create a better future.

A shockingly ignorant timeline

Sex and the State • 23 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural critique
  1. People often ignore important issues, like what is happening in Russia. It's important to stay informed, even if it's uncomfortable.
  2. There’s a rise in anti-feminist ideas, like the 'tradwife' trend, which can be harmful. These views don't really support women's rights.
  3. Understanding these social trends helps us see the bigger picture. It’s crucial to think critically about what we see and believe.

Pretend I’m dead

Austin Kleon • 99 implied HN points • 09 Jul 21
📚 Literature Cultural critique
  1. Reading books about writing can be a fun way to avoid actually writing while still feeling productive. It's like pretending to care about writing without doing it.
  2. Attention can be interpreted differently in various languages, suggesting that how we think about focusing on things can change based on culture. This shows how language influences our perception.
  3. The idea that the year can feel either half full or half empty is a nice reminder to look at life positively. It really depends on your perspective!

thinking about time horizons

Midnight Musings • 39 implied HN points • 03 Oct 22
📖 Philosophy Cultural critique
  1. Short-term thinking can lead to poor decision-making and bad predictions about the future. It's important to be aware of how the media and news might shape our understanding in a narrow way.
  2. People often feel pessimistic because they focus on immediate negative events instead of longer-term progress. Expanding our view can help us see the brighter side of things and be more hopeful about the future.
  3. Understanding human nature and historical perspectives can improve our ability to strategize and make decisions. Looking deeper into ancient wisdom might provide better insights than current trends.

When does Brat summer really end?

Two Pages Double Spaced • 13 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🎶 Music Cultural critique
  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.

What Ava DuVernay’s “Origin” Gets Wrong

Journal of Free Black Thought • 41 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Cultural critique
  1. Ava DuVernay's film 'Origin' focuses on a single story, overlooking complexities and nuances, emphasizing the danger of presenting a singular narrative.
  2. The portrayal of present-day oppression in 'Origin' ignores nuances in countries like India, painting a one-sided picture that does not capture the full reality.
  3. The film 'Origin' and the book it is based on, 'Caste,' fail to consider societal progress and depict a skewed view of racial prejudice, emphasizing the importance of understanding the complete context.

Japanese aesthetics: A podcast(!) and Q&A

Kyle Chayka Industries • 55 implied HN points • 12 Mar 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Cultural critique
  1. Kyle Chayka published his first audio project discussing Tanizaki's 'In Praise of Shadows' with Nate Gallant, exploring Japanese aesthetics and its relation to modernity.
  2. Tanizaki's essay delves into personal taste, the impact of technology on art, and the cultural implications of aesthetics in Japan.
  3. The essay critiques Western ideals of perfection and light, praising the beauty of shadows and imperfections in Japanese aesthetics.

The Trad Marxism of George Grant, Part 2

From the New World • 10 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Cultural critique
  1. George Grant blended traditionalism with Marxism, believing that while capitalism had improved life in some ways, it left a void in meaning and connection for many people.
  2. He thought that Marx's ideas offered a moral vision that could help explain social and economic issues, but felt that Marxism failed to embrace the spiritual aspect of life.
  3. Grant warned that society was becoming increasingly homogenized, with cultures and individual identities being overshadowed by impersonal economic systems.

Apocalypse, Revelation, Singularity

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 11 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Cultural critique
  1. The idea of a technological Singularity suggests that machines might soon surpass human intelligence. This could change everything about our existence and how we interact with technology.
  2. Some believe that instead of fearing this future, we should find value in our current experiences and connections. Emphasizing the present can lead to a more fulfilling life than chasing after technological advances.
  3. Philosophers suggest that technology shouldn't dominate our lives. Instead, we should see it as a means to enhance our current reality and creativity, rather than a goal in itself.

Jimmy Carter's Obituary, but With Jokes

I Might Be Wrong • 7 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
😂 Humor Cultural critique
  1. Jimmy Carter lived a life full of unexpected twists, from growing up on a peanut farm to becoming president. It's a reminder that anyone can rise from humble beginnings.
  2. Carter's political journey shows how he adapted his goals over time, switching from naval ambitions to state politics and eventually the presidency.
  3. The humor in his life story serves to lighten serious topics, reminding us that laughter can coexist with important historical events.

Tri-State Turmoil

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 9 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
📚 Literature Cultural critique
  1. Michael Goodwin Hilton's short stories explore complex human relationships, often highlighting their emotional struggles in everyday life. The writing is both engaging and nuanced, making it a refreshing read.
  2. Tomiwa Owolade's book discusses race in the UK, arguing against American influences and emphasizing the unique context of Britain's racial dynamics. He believes in understanding the complexities of different racial identities and promoting an integrated society.
  3. Stuart M. Ross's novel dives into the chaotic life of Ty Rossberg, whose relationship issues lead him on a wild journey filled with absurdity and humor. The focus is on his personal struggles and the contrast with his partner's success.

Geoff Horsman | The War on Science Interviews | Day 13

Critical Mass • 2 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
🔬 Science Cultural critique
  1. The discussion revolves around the conflicts facing science and academia today. Many believe that ideological biases are affecting how science is conducted and taught.
  2. Interviews with key figures will share their perspectives on issues like free speech, cancel culture, and the detrimental effects of social justice activism in academic settings.
  3. There is a call to action for the academic community and the public to engage in conversations that promote sound science and restore trust and excellence in research.