The hottest Existentialism Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Philosophy Topics

Perhaps You Shouldn't Read This

The Algorithmic Bridge • 743 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Reading can take away your ability to think for yourself. If you read too much, you might lose your original thoughts and feelings.
  2. Both reading and using AI are good, but doing them excessively has downsides. Just like you should drink enough water, you shouldn't overdo reading or rely too much on AI.
  3. It's fine to use AI or read books, but balance is important. You don’t have to do one all the time; a mix of both can help keep your mind sharp.

Natural existence in an artificial age

storyvoyager • 4 implied HN points • 01 Mar 26
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Rapid technological progress, especially AI, risks eroding human cognitive sovereignty and treating people as resources for building a superintelligence.
  2. A better path is to embrace our natural, biological existence and reintegrate with Earth's ecosystems as central to what it means to be human; protecting biodiversity and life's continuity should be our main goal.
  3. We should use technology to protect and reconnect with nature rather than to segregate from it, aiming to secure the planet's ability to sustain diverse life in perpetuity.

Evil

Philosophy bear • 271 implied HN points • 29 Jul 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. People often judge others as evil without thinking about their own actions. This can lead to a negative view of humanity as a whole.
  2. Many people have done wrong things, and the way we talk about these acts can make us dismiss the complexity of human morality.
  3. Instead of harsh judgment, we should approach others with understanding, recognizing that everyone has flaws and can change for the better.

Can We Escape from Ourselves?

Fake Noûs • 212 implied HN points • 16 Aug 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Sometimes, no matter where we go or what we change in our lives, we still end up facing the same issues within ourselves. It’s tough to escape from our own minds and thoughts.
  2. We can find temporary relief from our problems through engaging activities or distractions, but these are often short-lived. Eventually, we have to confront our feelings again.
  3. Accepting the parts of ourselves we don't like might not bring happiness, but it can be a first step toward understanding that everyone struggles with similar issues. We might not change completely, but we can learn to manage our feelings better.

The view from above

The Stoic Journal • 15 implied HN points • 26 Jan 26
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Imagining a 'view from above'—zooming out until your problems look tiny—makes urgent feelings fade.
  2. This perspective doesn't fix the situation, but it helps you right-size problems and stay calmer and clearer.
  3. You are both a small speck in the world and a mind that can hold the whole picture, and remembering that duality lets you change how you feel even when things stay the same.
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Resistance is necessary

Austin Kleon • 1878 implied HN points • 02 Aug 22
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Resistance helps us move forward. Without some friction, we can't really make progress in life.
  2. We often get distracted by easy paths. It's important to seek out challenges that guide us in the right direction.
  3. Creativity thrives on challenges. Facing resistance can spark new ideas and help us grow.

Configurancy

Breaking Smart • 43 implied HN points • 11 Dec 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Heidegger's idea of 'Care' as the basis for understanding existence is too vague and normatively loaded. It's hard to use 'Care' as a foundational concept because it carries so many emotional and ethical meanings.
  2. The new idea of 'Configurancy' is about how things and people relate over time to create a meaningful world. It's a process that describes how worlds and individuals come together without carrying any specific emotional weight.
  3. Configurancy helps us understand existence without tying it to goals or feelings. It shows that meaning arises from relationships and changes, rather than aiming for a fixed purpose.

Can One Become a Different Person?

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 691 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. People can feel like they've transformed into a new version of themselves, much like a caterpillar becoming a butterfly. This change can be exciting, but it also makes them reflect on their past identities.
  2. Memories play a key role in how we see ourselves and maintain our identity over time. Even when we go through tough experiences, like illness, we hold on to memories that connect us to who we were.
  3. The idea of being a person isn't as fixed as it seems; we shift and change over time. It's natural for us to evolve and take on new roles, much like actors changing characters in a play.

Cosmic Game

Seven Senses • 259 implied HN points • 06 Jan 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Entering a new year can bring excitement and a sense of renewal. It's important to embrace the feeling of possibility without holding onto specific expectations.
  2. Life is a mix of experiences, both good and bad. Instead of labeling years as 'hard' or 'good', it's better to appreciate the in-between moments that make up our daily lives.
  3. Showing up with clarity and hope while letting go of control can lead to a more fulfilling year. Embrace life's surprises and focus on your intentions without strict plans.

The Room and Matt Christman

De Pony Sum • 412 implied HN points • 27 Sep 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Matt Christman deserves appreciation for his understanding of societal injustices and the need for change.
  2. The analogy of a room with limited democracy, resources, healthcare, and foreign policy mirrors the inequalities present in the world.
  3. The message conveyed by Christman emphasizes the importance of solidarity, shared humanity, and the power to create a better world.

Hyperion and boring techno futures

Yasha Levine • 412 implied HN points • 02 May 23
📚 Literature Existentialism
  1. The story of Hyperion explores a conflict between a traditional civilization reliant on AI technology and a post-humanist society embracing genetic tinkering and self-directed evolution.
  2. The author questions the idealized futuristic utopia presented in the Hyperion series, highlighting the potential downsides and complexities of a tech-driven society.
  3. There is a comparison drawn between the themes in the Hyperion series and ideologies of technology-driven utopias seen in history, pointing out the different perspectives and potential outcomes.

Math is not art

The Strategy Toolkit • 26 implied HN points • 22 Dec 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. You often need to leave your familiar life and roles to really discover who you are, because you can’t fully see yourself from inside your own island.
  2. Having a craft, job, or practical skill can sustain you but it doesn’t replace the deeper search for identity and meaning.
  3. Moments and changing perspectives can reveal unexpected beauty and mystery, so paying attention to how time and place shift perception helps you understand the world and yourself.

Becoming an active participant is a blue ocean

Hot Takes • 373 implied HN points • 27 Jul 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Becoming an active participant in various projects and discussions is beneficial and fulfilling.
  2. Choosing to engage actively rather than passively can lead to personal growth and meaningful contributions.
  3. Participating in collaborative efforts, like Wikipedia, can have a significant positive impact and allows for collective creativity.

What Would Ayn Rand Say About Existential Risk From Misaligned AI?

The Future of Life • 39 implied HN points • 28 Jun 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Ayn Rand's Objectivism suggests that intelligence and morality are connected. This means that a superintelligent AI could likely develop values that align with human rights.
  2. The Orthogonality thesis argues that intelligence and goals are separate. However, from an Objectivist viewpoint, a really smart being would need to adopt certain virtues to be effective.
  3. Even if an AI is intelligent, it doesn't mean it will care about humans. There’s no guarantee an advanced AI would think our survival is important, even if it acts morally toward other intelligences.

We're About to Watch Billions Die. Where Does "Empathy" Fit Here?

OK Doomer • 208 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Empathy might not be enough to make a real difference in the world. Just feeling sorry for people doesn’t change the actions of those in power.
  2. Historical examples show that people can feel compassion for fictional stories while being cruel to real victims. This shows a disconnect between emotions and actions.
  3. As global crises increase, it’s important to rethink the role of empathy. We need to consider how we respond to suffering on a larger scale in the face of potential mass deaths.

The subtle art of not giving a f*ck

A Bit Gamey • 13 implied HN points • 25 Jan 26
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. You already care about too many things; the solution is subtraction—choose a few priorities and ignore the rest so your actions have real impact.
  2. Recognize you're not uniquely entitled to success; accepting ordinariness lets you stop complaining and commit to the hard work that matters.
  3. Take responsibility for your responses, set boundaries by saying no, admit when you don't know, and use the reality of death to sharpen what you care about.

The Probability of God

Fake Noûs • 200 implied HN points • 07 Jun 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Existentialism
  1. The existence of God is debated, especially around traditional views of a perfect being like an all-knowing, all-powerful entity. Many people question if such a being can even exist at all.
  2. There are arguments that challenge the idea of an all-powerful God, like how can someone be truly powerful if they can’t do everything or know everything. This raises doubts about the traditional definition of God.
  3. Determining how likely it is that God exists is tricky. People often struggle to assign initial probabilities to such beliefs before looking at evidence.

In Defense of Repression

Litverse • 379 implied HN points • 05 Feb 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Our cells constantly die and renew, questioning our identity continuity - Are we the same from day to day?
  2. Around 20% of Americans receive mental health treatment, with generational differences in therapy acceptance.
  3. Repression can be seen as a means to connect to a greater meaning beyond the self and as a tool for survival.

Why be good?

Philosophy bear • 143 implied HN points • 22 Jul 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Caring for others can make your own life feel more meaningful. When you invest in other people's well-being, you often find joy and purpose in your own life.
  2. Being good helps create consistency in your feelings and attitudes. If you resent others when they do bad things, being moral yourself can bring harmony to your thoughts.
  3. Building connections with others is easier when you care about them. Genuine friendships often rely on shared values, and caring for people can help foster those meaningful relationships.

The First Principles of Uncertainty

Deep Pulusani - Risk • 222 implied HN points • 01 May 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Uncertainty is a normal part of life and can actually help us stay alert and learn new things. It's important to accept that some things are unpredictable, which makes it easier to handle tough situations.
  2. When making decisions, it helps to separate uncertainties that can be reduced by gaining more information from those that can't be controlled. This way, we can focus on what we can change instead of feeling overwhelmed.
  3. Taking action is a great way to reduce uncertainty. Even small steps can lead to new insights and help us feel more confident in our choices.

Otherness and control in the age of AGI

Joe Carlsmith's Substack • 157 implied HN points • 02 Jan 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. The series explores questions about how agents with different values should interact, especially in the age of increasingly powerful AI systems.
  2. It discusses topics like deep atheism, control-seeking behavior, and the ethics of influencing the values of others.
  3. The essays aim to prompt deeper thinking about existential risks from misaligned AI and the broader issues of otherness and control in shaping the future.

Can We Take a Break, for Fuck’s Sake?

antoniomelonio • 341 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Existentialism
  1. Many adults feel exhausted because life doesn't offer enough breaks. Once school ends, it's like the work never stops.
  2. Society puts pressure on us to always be productive, turning hobbies into jobs and making weekends just a time for chores.
  3. We need to recognize that rest is essential for happiness. Taking time to recharge should be a priority, not a luxury.

The Right Side of History

Breaking Smart • 150 implied HN points • 07 Jun 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Understanding history is complex and doesn't always have clear 'right' or 'wrong' sides. Sometimes we need to accept uncertainty and be okay with being wrong.
  2. Having opinions or beliefs is fine, but trying to find a single 'right side' can lead to confusion and extremism. It's important to be open to different perspectives.
  3. Engaging seriously with serious issues is necessary, but it's also important to embrace humor and unseriousness to keep a balanced view of life.

In Defense of Repression II

Litverse • 279 implied HN points • 06 Feb 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Repression could be a tool for building a new self by accepting and integrating past pain, according to Marcel Proust's Impressionist painter Elstir.
  2. Ernest Becker theorizes that repression is crucial not just for personal growth but also for maintaining societal agreement on fundamental truths, preventing a future with conflicting values.
  3. Projection, seen as a defense mechanism by Freud, is viewed optimistically by Becker, who believes it fulfills human narcissism and helps find purpose by prioritizing the outer world as part of the inner self.

Embodying the Good

Humanities in Revolt • 219 implied HN points • 21 Jun 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. The peace movement highlighted the importance of embodying intrinsic values, such as truth, justice, autonomy, and integrity, above achieving immediate results.
  2. Recognizing and enacting self-justifying values allows us to find meaning and purpose in the face of life's futility.
  3. Activists in the peace movement worked to promote human dignity, freedom, and justice, rejecting defeatism and continuing to embody their principles despite facing challenges and setbacks.

Functioning without function

antoniomelonio • 110 implied HN points • 15 Jul 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. People often define themselves by their jobs, but the idea of having a job is changing. As roles disappear, we may struggle to answer the question, 'What do you do?'
  2. Without clear roles, we might feel bored and lost, needing something to strive for and find purpose in. This could lead us to focus more on relationships and personal connections.
  3. As technology takes over tasks, we might wonder about our significance and what we contribute to society. We may shift from job-based identities to being better partners, friends, and family members.

Me

Philosophy bear • 278 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. It's important to express ourselves beyond just labels like race or gender. Relying too much on these labels can limit our understanding of a person and their experiences.
  2. People often crave certainty and security about their self-image, but this can lead to feelings of despair. Instead of clinging to an idealized self, focusing on doing good in the present moment can be more fulfilling.
  3. Many of us share a desire to be truly known by others. This feeling can lead to frustration when we feel invisible or misunderstood, but seeking genuine connections can help us combat that isolation.

Perennial Problems, Projects & Philosophies - Part 3

Weekly Wisdom • 198 implied HN points • 18 May 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. The evolution of psychology is deeply intertwined with philosophy, with early psychologists being philosophers themselves.
  2. Western existentialist ideas on existence's meaninglessness and Eastern concepts like shunyata converge, yet offer different conclusions.
  3. The field of psychology has transitioned from studying dysfunction to focusing on well-being and flourishing, emphasizing the importance of a meaningful and intentional life.

the puzzle without a name

Thicket Forte • 419 implied HN points • 08 Mar 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Life can feel like a puzzle where you don't have all the pieces or instructions. It's frustrating when things don't fit, and you might feel lost trying to figure it all out.
  2. Real progress comes when you discover new ways to understand or solve your problems. Each new insight can change everything and make life feel more complete.
  3. It's easy to think you've reached the end, but there's always more to explore and understand. Keep questioning and seeking out those hidden pieces, even if it feels challenging.

Jordan Peterson, Revisited: Is Peterson the Most Interesting Thinker of Our Time?

Mind & Mythos • 259 implied HN points • 30 May 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Jordan Peterson's ideas have resonated with many young men during a time when traditional masculinity was criticized. His practical advice encourages personal growth in a relatable way.
  2. Peterson emphasizes the importance of understanding the world through both scientific facts and the stories we tell. These narratives can help us navigate life by showing us how to act and what is significant.
  3. He suggests that traditional beliefs and rituals have value because they offer guidance that empirical reasoning alone can't provide. Many past ideologies, despite their flaws, aimed to create a better society but often resulted in disaster.

The Most Important Skill in the 21st Century

The Algorithmic Bridge • 668 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Boredom was never the problem, but not experiencing it is a challenge in the modern world.
  2. The most crucial skill in the 21st century is learning how to be bored and find tranquility in silence.
  3. Constant external stimulation has made us fear boredom, but embracing it can help us grow and stand out in a world of overwhelming entertainment.

The Non Linear Path

The Renaissance Man • 19 implied HN points • 29 Jun 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Life doesn't always have a clear direction, and that's okay. Embracing the unknown can help you trust your journey, even when it feels scary.
  2. Comparing yourself to others can lead to feelings of jealousy and regret. Remember, everyone is on their own unique path, and you are not better or worse than anyone else.
  3. Holding onto hope is important, even when things don't make sense. It's better to believe that everything will work out in the end than to live in fear.

First ask what it means

David Friedman’s Substack • 269 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. It's important to first understand what statements about climate change really mean before accepting them as true. Definitions of extreme weather can vary, so the impact of climate change may not be as straightforward as it seems.
  2. When people say healthcare is a human right, it raises questions about what that actually means and whether healthcare workers could be forced to provide care. The term needs clarification to avoid misunderstandings about what rights entail.
  3. Terms like 'living wage' can be vague and subjective. People often think of it as a wage that allows for a comfortable life, but what that looks like varies widely between individuals.

The scapegoat of everything: Sacrifice

Uneasy’s Substack • 19 implied HN points • 24 Jun 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. To achieve important goals, you often need to give up less important things. Sacrifice is a key part of mastering any craft.
  2. Opportunity cost is about what you lose by choosing one path over another. It’s important to weigh your options to see which sacrifices benefit you most.
  3. Your sacrifices can define who you are. What you choose to give up can help you focus on what really matters in your life.

Weltschmerz

antoniomelonio • 215 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Weltschmerz means feeling tired or sad about how the world is. It's a deep emotional exhaustion about life's challenges and problems.
  2. People today face many big issues like climate change and wealth inequality, which can make this feeling even stronger. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by these problems.
  3. This sense of world-weariness has worsened over time as we see societal promises break down. It's a struggle that many people can relate to.