The hottest Cultural Studies Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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A Salute to Every Tolstoy Across Borders

Unmapped Storylands with Elif Shafak • 5396 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Essays Cultural Studies Narrative
  1. There's no clear line between 'solid' and 'liquid' countries. Everyone faces challenges and changes, regardless of where they live.
  2. Literature should include diverse voices from around the world. We shouldn't reduce cultures to simple categories like 'literate' or 'pre-literate.'
  3. All societies struggle with their own issues. Literature helps us understand these struggles and find a better path forward.

'Do You Believe Jesus Died for Our Sins?’ Richard Dawkins Confronts Jordan Peterson

The Poetry of Reality with Richard Dawkins • 933 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Theology Philosophy Religion Existentialism Cultural Studies
  1. Richard Dawkins challenges Jordan Peterson about his beliefs on the Bible and whether Jesus died for our sins.
  2. Peterson compares the truths of Christianity to the complexities of quantum physics in a recent conversation.
  3. They discuss how Christianity has influenced human progress and what it means to believe in its truths.

Indigenous land acknowledgements often ignore history

Critical Mass • 26 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Indigenous rights History Social justice Cultural Studies Public Discourse
  1. Indigenous land acknowledgements can sometimes be simplistic and miss the complexity of history. It's important to recognize that history is not always straightforward, and we should be careful not to create myths.
  2. Some acknowledgements make strong claims about Indigenous ownership that might not be fully accurate. It's necessary to look at historical context and evidence before making those statements.
  3. We need to talk honestly about history and science related to land ownership and Indigenous rights. Celebrating cultures should not come at the cost of historical accuracy.

Japanese Death Poems

Secretum Secretorum • 1742 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
📚 Literature Poetry Philosophy Cultural Studies
  1. In Japan, there is a long tradition of writing 'death poems' called jisei, especially among Zen monks. These poems express their thoughts and feelings about dying in their last moments.
  2. These poems often reflect deep insights about life and death, showing a peaceful acceptance of mortality. They convey emotions and wisdom that can inspire others.
  3. Each poet's final words can reveal their personal journeys and beliefs, highlighting a connection to nature, existence, and the essence of life that resonates across cultures.

How and What Are You Learning as an Adult?

Culture Study • 1756 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Personal Growth Education Social Issues Cultural Studies
  1. Learning as an adult is important for personal growth. It helps you understand yourself and the world better.
  2. There are many ways to learn, including asking questions and engaging with others. Conversations with diverse people can offer new insights.
  3. Embracing continuous learning can lead to better relationships and a more fulfilling life. It's never too late to start learning something new.
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Why does every Jacobin comment section look like this?

Philosophy bear • 343 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Political theory Social Critique Ideological analysis Cultural Studies Commentary
  1. People in Jacobin's comment section often seem unhappy. It's interesting to wonder why so many voices lean toward negativity.
  2. There seems to be a unique attitude among commenters across different ideologies, especially on the left. This may hold clues about the wider leftist community.
  3. Understanding the reasons behind this grumpy attitude could be key to helping socialism move forward without obstacles.

RKUL: Time Well Spent 2/2/2025

Razib Khan's Unsupervised Learning • 280 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
📚 Literature Books History Philosophy Science Cultural Studies
  1. Surprises teach us new things that change our understanding. They help us adapt our views of the world when what we expect turns out to be wrong.
  2. History shows that even unlikely places can produce great innovations and thinkers, like Athens and Ramanujan. Talent can arise from the most unexpected backgrounds.
  3. Twists and turns in history, like wars and societal changes, can shape powerful civilizations. Sometimes, survival and adaptability lead to greatness, even against the odds.

We are what we speak: Indo-European phylogenetic and linguistic trees concur

Razib Khan's Unsupervised Learning • 800 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
💾 History Linguistics Genetics Cultural Studies Anthropology
  1. Recent ancient DNA research has greatly advanced our understanding of the origins and evolution of Indo-European languages. This includes finding connections between ancient peoples and the languages we speak today.
  2. Studies reveal that the Yamnaya people from the Pontic steppe played a key role in spreading Indo-European languages across Eurasia. They replaced many indigenous populations, showing a significant impact on the genetics of modern Europeans.
  3. The genetic findings confirm a close relationship between our linguistic history and biological roots. This means the languages we speak can reflect our ancestral heritage.

Highlights From The Comments On Lynn And IQ

Astral Codex Ten • 10668 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🔬 Science Psychology Education Sociology Cultural Studies
  1. IQ tests may not accurately reflect a person's real-life intelligence, especially in very under-educated populations. Many factors, like lack of exposure to education, can affect test performance.
  2. Data from reliable and different sources, like World Bank statistics, often support the findings on national IQs. This suggests that there might be underlying patterns in intelligence across different countries.
  3. There's a complex relationship between IQ and practical skills. Just because someone scores low on an IQ test, it doesn't mean they're incapable in practical situations, like farming.

The meaning of, and in, McDonald's

Chris Arnade Walks the World • 2678 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Community Sociology Cultural Studies Media Public Opinion
  1. McDonald's serves as a community hub for many Americans. It provides a comfortable place for people from all walks of life to gather and connect.
  2. Political figures like Trump tap into McDonald's popularity to resonate with average voters. His love for the franchise makes him seem relatable and down-to-earth.
  3. Many people facing challenges, like mental illness, find safety and social interaction in McDonald's. The staff and regulars often look out for each other, creating a supportive environment.

The day the world didn't end

Experimental History • 1934 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
💾 History American history Cultural Studies Social Impact
  1. On October 22, 1844, many people believed the world would end and gathered to witness it, demonstrating the power of apocalyptic beliefs.
  2. This event led some individuals to make drastic life changes, like quitting their jobs and selling their belongings, reflecting deep faith and hope for a promised event.
  3. Despite the predictions, nothing happened that day, which caused many to feel lost or confused, highlighting the impact of failed prophecies on people's lives.

J.R.R. Tolkien the poet in search of lost time.

The Common Reader • 1736 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Books Authors Literary Analysis Cultural Studies
  1. J.R.R. Tolkien's poetry often explores the theme of lost time, reflecting on beauty and grief during the First World War.
  2. Despite being a poet with unique style, Tolkien's work shows connections to his contemporaries and the literary trends of his time.
  3. The recent collection of his poems is a valuable insight into his development as a writer and offers interesting historical context.

Britain's sinking reputation

Wrong Side of History • 669 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Diaspora Politics Identity Nostalgia Cultural Studies
  1. Some people in the Anglo diaspora feel let down by Britain and its changing reputation. They look back at the old days with a mix of nostalgia and disappointment.
  2. Diaspora politics can be complicated, as it’s often based on memories rather than the current reality in the home country. Feelings about cultural issues can be influenced by generations of distance.
  3. The idea of cultural appropriation is shaped by individuals who have embraced new cultures while losing touch with their own roots. This can lead to misunderstandings and conflict.

Stolen Youth at Sarah Lawrence

Disaffected Newsletter • 999 implied HN points • 06 Aug 24
🚌 Education School System Pedagogy Cultural Studies
  1. A documentary called 'Stolen Youth' explores how a toxic adult created a harmful cult at Sarah Lawrence College.
  2. The college's approach to education is criticized for promoting extreme ideologies, which some believe contributed to the cult's formation.
  3. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the effects of educational philosophies on students' lives.

Truth in the old myths

Wrong Side of History • 408 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
💾 History Ancient Civilizations Archaeology Mythology Cultural Studies Historical Figures
  1. Ancient myths, like those of Troy and Agamemnon, might have some truths behind them. Archaeological discoveries are showing that these stories could be based on real events.
  2. Visiting historical sites like Mycenae can inspire strong feelings about the past. It makes you think about the legends and heroes that might have lived there.
  3. New findings in DNA and archaeology challenge our view of old myths as just stories. They suggest that some of these legendary tales might have a basis in reality.

My Mormon Obsession

Castalia • 479 implied HN points • 13 Aug 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religious history Theology Cultural Studies Personal narrative Community Dynamics
  1. Joseph Smith had unique and complex beliefs about God and spirituality that diverged from the mainstream ideas of his followers. He believed that humans could become like God and that creativity was a path to divinity.
  2. Smith faced opposition and challenges from both within and outside his community, including issues arising from his controversial practices like plural marriage. This led to tensions among his followers and eventually to his downfall.
  3. After Smith's death, the Mormon community experienced a significant shift as leadership changed hands. Brigham Young led the migration to Utah, where the community adopted a more structured approach, moving away from the free-spirited culture that characterized Smith's time.

My Mormon Obsession

Castalia • 459 implied HN points • 03 Aug 24
💾 History American history Religious history Cultural Studies Political History Historical Narratives
  1. Nauvoo was a unique place in American history where Mormons created a theocratic community led by Joseph Smith. They had a different approach to politics and society compared to the individualistic American spirit.
  2. Despite facing hardships, the Mormons worked hard and grew in numbers, thanks in part to Joseph Smith's leadership and their strong community spirit. Nauvoo became a symbol of resilience for them.
  3. Joseph Smith's personal life was complex, involving multiple marriages and hidden affairs. He justified his actions through his religious beliefs, demonstrating a mix of idealism and ambition.

Qian Chengdan on Area Studies in China

Pekingnology • 67 implied HN points • 21 May 25
🚌 Education Interdisciplinary Political Science Cultural Studies History
  1. China has a strict system for classifying academic disciplines which includes a recent addition of 'area studies.' This means universities can't create new fields without government approval, keeping academic studies organized but also rigid.
  2. Area studies is important because it combines different fields like politics, economics, and culture to understand specific countries or regions better. This helps in making informed government strategies and improving international relations.
  3. Despite the rise in area studies, there are challenges due to traditional academic boundaries. China is trying to support this field by officially recognizing interdisciplinary studies, which allows for more collaboration and talent development.

An Open Elite?

Life and Letters • 579 implied HN points • 08 Jun 24
📚 Literature Social Mobility Authorship Economic Inequality Cultural Studies
  1. Making a living as a writer is really tough nowadays. A few bestsellers make a lot of money, while most authors earn very little.
  2. Social mobility, or the ability to move up the social ladder, has often been very limited in literary history. Many writers come from wealth rather than from lower classes.
  3. Throughout history, there have been moments when more diverse writers entered the literary scene. These periods saw new genres and styles of writing emerge, reflecting changes in society.

Africa’s exception to every rule: Ethiopian genetics, sovereignty and religion

Razib Khan's Unsupervised Learning • 572 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
💾 History Civilizations Genetics Colonialism Cultural Studies
  1. Ethiopia is unique in Africa due to its rich history, diverse cultures, and genetic diversity. It has a mix of influences from both Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East.
  2. The country's geographical features, like its highlands, have helped preserve its independence and distinct cultural identity over centuries. This has made Ethiopia a symbol of resistance against colonialism.
  3. Ethiopian genetic studies show a complex ancestry that includes both African and Eurasian elements. This makes Ethiopians distinct from other populations, emphasizing their unique place in human history.

Being Unrealistic

Animation Obsessive • 1524 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Animation Film Visual Arts Cultural Studies Creativity
  1. Cinema Fantasma, a stop-motion studio in Mexico, started with a big dream and little money. The founders had to get creative, making their own animation tools and props from scratch.
  2. The studio began on a rooftop in Mexico City, showing the dedication of the Ambriz brothers and their family. They transformed their home into a workspace to achieve their goal of creating a top-quality animated film.
  3. The making of 'Revoltoso' was a learning experience for everyone involved. The animators were new to the craft but worked hard to develop their skills for this project.

It's ok to live in a fantasyland

The Novelleist • 1303 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Mythology Cultural Studies Writing
  1. Living in a fantasyland allows us to add magic to our everyday lives, helping us cope with reality. Stories, myths, and legends enrich our experiences and make the world feel more enchanting.
  2. Imagination is powerful; it helps us see extraordinary things in ordinary places. We can transform a simple book or a familiar place into a magical experience just by believing in the stories connected to them.
  3. Sometimes knowing too much can take away the magic. Holding onto myths and stories helps keep the wonder alive in our lives, letting us cherish imagination alongside reality.

LECTURE NOTES: 5.4. Post-2010 "Polycrisis": Culture, Communications, Politics, & War

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 207 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Economy Public Policy Cultural Studies War Studies
  1. We're facing a big change in how we organize our economies and societies after the old Neoliberal Order collapsed. Right now, there's no clear leader or system guiding us towards the future.
  2. Global warming is a major challenge we're dealing with, and it will likely change how we approach economics and society. It could cost us a lot and make it harder to adapt to new technologies.
  3. Misinformation is a huge problem in politics today. Many people believe false information, which can really impact elections and how we view our society.

The origin of woke: a George Mason view

Gray Mirror • 108 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Wokeness Political theory Cultural Studies Social Psychology
  1. Wokeness is seen as a form of signaling virtue. People often support wokeness to show they are nice and moral, which helps them gain status in social groups.
  2. The origin of wokeness is linked to the desire to treat everyone equally, promoting good behavior, especially in diverse societies. It's about showing you care about people from different backgrounds.
  3. Discussing group differences and how they impact social status is important. Wokeness evolves to maintain its status, often distancing itself from less socially aware groups.

Inside the Catholic State

Wrong Side of History • 280 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
💾 History Art history Religious history Cultural Studies Political History Biography
  1. Caravaggio's life and art were heavily influenced by the religious tensions of his time, particularly the struggles between Catholicism, Protestantism, and Islam. This backdrop shaped his perspective and themes in his work.
  2. Milan during the Counter-Reformation was a strict Catholic state, ruled by figures like Carlo Borromeo, who enforced harsh religious laws. People faced severe punishments for crimes seen as against the faith.
  3. The Pope during this time, Pius IV, was known for his intolerance and refusal to consider differing opinions. His death led to violent celebrations, highlighting the public's discontent with oppressive rule.

Poetry Book Club SUNDAY 19.00 UK TIME

The Common Reader • 106 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Book clubs Literary Analysis Cultural Studies
  1. There will be a Poetry Book Club meeting on Sunday, December 8th at 7 p.m. UK time. Everyone interested is invited to join the discussion.
  2. The focus of the meeting will be on Seventeenth Century Poetry. Participants can prepare by reading recommended materials.
  3. Attendees are encouraged to share their questions or topics for discussion in the comments before the meeting.

Hanson-Caplan Dialogue on Cultural Drift

Bet On It • 110 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Cultural Studies Philosophy Social Issues Communication Media
  1. Cultural drift is a concerning issue that can affect society in various negative ways. It means that cultural values and ideas can change quickly and not always for the better.
  2. The topic has been a point of discussion and worry for some, indicating a need to address these changes in a healthy manner. It's important to reflect on what behaviors and ideas we want to keep or discard.
  3. Conversations about cultural drift can help raise awareness and encourage people to think critically about the influence of modern technology and trends on our culture. Talking about these issues is the first step toward understanding and possibly addressing them.

Making America, Part 2

KERFUFFLE • 23 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
💾 History Cultural Studies Immigration Identity American history Political culture
  1. The term 'Scotch-Irish' was created in the mid-1800s to distinguish earlier Irish immigrants from a later wave that faced backlash. Many who identified as Scotch-Irish didn't even see themselves as Scottish, having roots in Ireland for generations.
  2. Scotch-Irish people were often Presbyterians and not as poor as the later Irish immigrants. They had jobs in industries like wool and linen in their home area of Ulster before coming to America.
  3. Over time, the Scotch-Irish began to identify more with their new American states rather than Ireland or Scotland. Their experiences reflect the idea of America as a place where people seek a better life, shedding old identities.

Open Thread #33

Fisted by Foucault • 99 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Cultural Studies Global Issues Public Discourse Foreign Policy
  1. There is a discussion about whether cultural conflicts are becoming a global issue. People are debating if what happens in one country affects others.
  2. The panel will explore different paths that the USA might take in its foreign policy, including being more isolationist or more transactional. This shows how foreign relations can vary widely.
  3. The author is excited to connect with readers who will attend the event. It's a chance for meaningful conversations and sharing ideas.

Stories from the Center of the World (w/ Jordan Elgrably) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 75 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Cultural Studies Creative Writing
  1. Stories from the Middle East show the real lives and struggles of people in that region. They remind us that they are just as human as we are.
  2. The themes of exile and longing for connection are common in these stories. Many characters face loss of identity and struggle with being seen as outsiders.
  3. Reading these stories can open the door to understanding Middle Eastern culture. They serve as an introduction to many talented writers and their experiences.

Does The Week Exist?

Castalia • 459 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Cultural Studies Philosophy Sociology Meditation
  1. Each day of the week feels different, and these feelings can be shaped by culture and personal experiences. For example, many people love Fridays for the weekend vibes, while Tuesdays might feel a bit dull.
  2. The seven-day week is quite arbitrary compared to other time units like days and months, yet it influences our energy and routines. There are also ideas that our ancestors connected these days to the planets, giving them unique qualities.
  3. Modern life, filled with screens and remote work, changes how we experience time. This makes it easier to blend work and leisure, allowing for a lifestyle where we can pursue what we enjoy more consistently.

How The Modern World Lost & Found Its Newest Continent

Everything Is Amazing • 1398 implied HN points • 01 Nov 23
🔬 Science Geology Geography Cultural Studies History Oceanography
  1. Zealandia is a potential new continent, mapped in 2023, with its status still debated.
  2. Continents are typically identified by convention rather than strict criteria, leading to inconsistencies in definitions.
  3. There are millions of islands around the world, with many being uninhabited despite significant populations on some continents.

Countee Cullen's Lyric Ghosts

Journal of Free Black Thought • 6 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
📚 Literature Poetry Literary Analysis Cultural Studies Criticism
  1. Countee Cullen's poem addresses John Keats, showing a connection between the two poets. It suggests that both poets understand beauty and the passage of time in a unique way.
  2. Cullen's use of the season of spring represents renewal and transformation, linking life and death. It creates a feeling that past and future moments are blended in this beautiful season.
  3. The poem invites readers to feel included in the conversation between Cullen and Keats. It blurs the lines of life and death, making everyone a part of this shared experience of beauty.

Scattered thoughts on slavery and the Byzantine Empire

Something to Consider • 59 implied HN points • 22 Jun 24
💾 History Slavery Warfare Socioeconomics Cultural Studies
  1. The time period between 600 and 900 AD was marked by constant warfare and widespread slavery, making it an unsafe and anxious era to live in.
  2. Historical records from this time mainly focus on kings and religious leaders, leaving out the everyday struggles and events of regular people.
  3. Slavery's demand mainly stemmed from economic reasons, with foreign slaves often seen as more profitable due to their cultural differences and the dynamics of warfare.

Middle East 201

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 3 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East International relations Geopolitics Cultural Studies Global Issues
  1. The author is learning about Morocco and is not yet confident in providing detailed information. They are waiting for more knowledgeable sources to guide their reading.
  2. They have asked ChatGPT for suggestions on what to read about Morocco and are considering its recommendations.
  3. This content serves as an introduction rather than a complete lesson plan, showing a desire for deeper understanding of the subject.

Beliefs That Sterilize The World with Malcolm Collins

Moral Mayhem Podcast • 79 implied HN points • 10 Apr 24
📖 Philosophy Humanity Belief systems Ethics Cultural Studies Social theory
  1. Beliefs can shape how we view and interact with the world. It's important to recognize these beliefs and consider their impact.
  2. Certain beliefs may discourage people from having children, leading to societal challenges. We should think about how our views affect population growth.
  3. Discussing controversial ideas can help us understand different perspectives. Open conversations are key to finding solutions to big issues.

I really don’t care why evolution happened

Something to Consider • 19 implied HN points • 17 Jul 24
🔬 Science Evolution Economics Cultural Studies Public Policy Research Ethics
  1. Science should help us make better choices now, not just speculate about the past. We should focus on how what we learn can improve our lives today.
  2. Understanding historical impacts like slavery can teach us more about current issues, such as trust and economic development, rather than just dwelling on the past for its own sake.
  3. Scientists should prioritize research that benefits society instead of just following personal interests. Our work should aim to make the world better and address current problems.

Essay Club: The Death of the Author by Roland Barthes

Mind & Mythos • 99 implied HN points • 24 Feb 24
📚 Literature Literary theory Philosophy Critical Theory Text Analysis Cultural Studies
  1. The idea of 'The Death of the Author' suggests that once a piece of writing is out in the world, it's not just about the author's intention anymore. Readers can find many meanings in it, beyond what the author might have intended.
  2. By removing the author from the center of a text, we open up new interpretations and dialogues. This means that literature becomes a space where multiple voices can interact and create a richer understanding.
  3. This perspective challenges the traditional view of authorship, making it possible for everyone's interpretation to hold value. It emphasizes the importance of the reader's role in creating meaning from a text.

Literary Study Needs More Marxists

Cosy Moments • 46 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
📚 Literature Literary theory Cultural Studies Marxism Higher education
  1. Literary study often lacks a balanced perspective, and introducing more Marxist ideas could enhance understanding of texts through social and historical contexts.
  2. Removing classic texts from curricula due to their controversial content is problematic and can limit students' educational experiences.
  3. It's important to appreciate literature, like Shakespeare, for its cultural value, regardless of political beliefs.

What Makes Humans Special?

Meaning || Matter • 3 HN points • 04 Sep 24
📖 Philosophy Ethics Human nature Cognitive Science Evolution Cultural Studies
  1. Humans are unique because we can reason and make moral choices, which sets us apart from animals. Unlike other creatures, we think about what is right and wrong and have the ability to act on those thoughts.
  2. Children develop important social skills like helping and empathy at a very young age. They naturally want to support others and understand emotions, showing they care about feelings even before they can talk.
  3. Humans create complex cultures that build trust and cooperation among large groups. This ability to share knowledge and norms allows us to work together, unlike most animals that mainly rely on small, familiar groups.