The hottest Existentialism Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Philosophy Topics

a dream with my grandparents

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 19 Aug 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Family Mortality Dreams Values
  1. Our loved ones can have a strong influence on our choices, even in dreams. They might push us to reflect on how we spend our time and what really matters.
  2. Wanting things doesn't always lead to happiness. Sometimes it's better to let go of desires and find freedom in accepting life as it is.
  3. We need to think for ourselves and listen closely to others to find our truth. Balancing the old support from family with new independence is a complex journey.

You are astonishingly unique

inexactscience • 19 implied HN points • 27 Jul 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Humanism Metaphysics Ontology Ethics
  1. Your existence is extremely rare and special. Every generation of your ancestors had to survive for you to be here today.
  2. The chances of your specific lineage and circumstances coming together are astronomically low. It's like winning a cosmic lottery.
  3. Everyone you meet is also incredibly unique. We are all part of a vast story of chance and choices that led to our existence.
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Being Patrick Bateman

Anxiety Addiction & Ascension • 39 implied HN points • 29 Mar 22
🎭️ Culture Film Literature Societal norms Identity Existentialism
  1. The author reflects on their journey of trying to fit into the corporate machine by emulating characters like Patrick Bateman, Don Draper, and Jay Gatsby.
  2. There's a paradox in the desire to conform and fit in while also seeking identity and individuality within the structured societal norms.
  3. Ultimately, the lesson learned is to strive to be oneself rather than mold into what the machine demands, recognizing the importance of personal authenticity and contribution to life's powerful play.

You're Living in a Simulation, Wake Up!

Sector 6 | The Newsletter of AIM • 19 implied HN points • 23 Mar 23
📖 Philosophy Ethics Existentialism Metaphysics Mind Reality
  1. Some people believe we might be living in a simulation, which raises interesting questions about our reality. This idea challenges what we think about existence and what is real.
  2. Nick Bostrom's influential paper suggests three scenarios about advanced civilizations and simulations. He wonders if civilizations either go extinct, don't create simulations, or if there are more simulated worlds than real ones.
  3. Elon Musk has shared that there's a tiny chance we're living in 'base reality.' His thoughts add to the debate about whether our experiences are genuine or part of a larger simulation.

Finite and infinite games

The Jolly Contrarian • 39 implied HN points • 17 Apr 22
📖 Philosophy Ethics Metaphysics Epistemology Existentialism Logic
  1. Carse distinguishes between finite games, which have fixed rules and a clear winner, and infinite games, which have no fixed rules and aim to continue playing without winners or losers.
  2. Infinite games are inclusive and allow for fluid boundaries, while finite games are exclusive and dominate attention while being played.
  3. It's crucial in life to discern when you are involved in finite games aimed at winning, and when you are part of infinite play focused on continuing and evolving.

#45: Civilization is weightless

The Uncertainty Mindset (soon to become tbd) • 119 implied HN points • 09 Sep 20
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Metaphysics Cognition Ethics Adaptability
  1. Moving frequently helps you rethink what you own and decide what to keep or get rid of.
  2. It’s easy to hold onto things you don’t need because they feel comforting or like they might be useful one day.
  3. Letting go of unnecessary stuff can help you feel lighter and make space for more important things, like flexibility and knowledge.

Eclipse

roon’s blog • 7 implied HN points • 21 Apr 24
📖 Philosophy Cosmology Existentialism Metaphysics Spirituality Human experience
  1. Experiencing a solar eclipse can make you feel connected to the universe. It’s a moment where you realize just how small we are in the grand scheme of things.
  2. During an eclipse, the normal rules of nature seem to change, creating a sense of awe and deep emotion. This powerful event can bring people together in joy and wonder.
  3. The eclipse serves as a reminder that there are bigger forces at play in the universe. It brings clarity about life, showing that our experiences are just part of a larger cosmic dance.

A Postcard From The Far Side of Despair.

Trying to Understand the World • 9 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Action Hope Resistance
  1. People have given up hope for a better future and are engulfed in a sense of despair and disillusionment.
  2. Facing situations without hope doesn't always lead to despair; learning from real-life examples of resilience is crucial.
  3. In times of crisis and hopelessness, focus on practical actions within your control and act with kindness and understanding.

23 principles

Midnight Musings • 39 implied HN points • 04 Apr 22
📖 Philosophy Self-Improvement Personal Growth Mindfulness Existentialism
  1. Forgiveness helps you heal and frees you from the weight of anger. It's good for both you and the people you forgive.
  2. Focus on what you can control and react positively to life’s ups and downs. Embracing challenges with love and gratitude can make life more enjoyable.
  3. Be kind and compassionate to others without needing to understand their situation completely. Compassion opens the door to real connections.

#9: Tradeoffs

The Uncertainty Mindset (soon to become tbd) • 79 implied HN points • 01 Jan 20
📖 Philosophy Ethics Existentialism Decision Theory Critical Thinking Mental models
  1. Life is full of tradeoffs. When you want something, like a stable job or a big house, you may have to give up other freedoms, like moving easily or having more free time.
  2. It’s important to clearly define what tradeoffs you are okay with. This helps you make better decisions, whether it’s about what to eat or where to live.
  3. Instead of just asking what you want, think about what you are willing to sacrifice. This question helps you understand your priorities and can lead to clearer choices.

assorted thoughts on philosophy and spirituality

Midnight Musings • 19 implied HN points • 09 May 22
📖 Philosophy Spirituality Existentialism Mindfulness Awareness Personal Growth
  1. Understanding my ego has helped me realize that I'm not just my thoughts and desires. I can be the observer of my thoughts instead of getting lost in them.
  2. I've learned that desire often leads to disappointment and exhaustion. Instead of asking what I want, I now focus on what I can give to others.
  3. I believe that our energy affects our experiences and relationships. By giving love and compassion, I attract positive experiences into my life.

Humans are Just a System, Right?

I Might Be Wrong • 7 implied HN points • 09 Jun 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Epistemology Ethics Metaphysics Humanity
  1. Humans are like emergent systems, made up of smaller parts that come together to create complex results.
  2. Emergence exists in various fields like economies, cities, and consciousness, implying that systems are present in many aspects of life.
  3. It's okay to not have all the answers or know your purpose, as humanity might be part of a larger system with a mysterious purpose.

Faith

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 23 Jul 21
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Philosophy Existentialism Belief Spiritual Practices
  1. Rejecting one idea of God doesn't mean you can't create your own idea of God. It's important to find a belief that feels right for you.
  2. Faith can be seen differently in religious and scientific communities. While faith is a virtue in religion, science values doubt and questioning.
  3. Even in math and logic, there’s a level of faith that better explanations exist. This shows that faith isn’t just for the religious, but important in every field of exploration.

what the f* is e/acc

e/acc newsletter • 3 HN points • 26 Dec 22
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Ethics Optimism Thermodynamics
  1. E/acc (effective accelerationism) believes in continuous growth and technological advancement as solutions to human problems.
  2. E/acc is founded on the physics of life, emphasizing that creating structures that efficiently use energy to offload entropy is crucial for survival.
  3. E/acc promotes increasing energy usage, human flourishing, developing AI, and spreading life beyond Earth as key goals for civilization.

End the Horror, Let the Crisis Change You

As If We Were Staying • 2 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Metaphysics
  1. We are facing many crises all at once, called a polycrisis. This means it's affecting us in many parts of our lives and makes us feel overwhelmed.
  2. Horror can be seen as the fear of losing control or understanding in uncertain situations. To get through it, we need to confront what scares us, rather than avoiding it.
  3. To change and grow, we need to rethink our beliefs and frameworks that have been shaped by capitalism. Embracing change is key to moving past the horrors we face.

Waste Your Time, Your Life May Depend On It

The Convivial Society • 4 HN points • 12 May 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Ethics Technology Human nature Society
  1. Beware of falling into the 'tyranny of tiny tasks' that can lead to exhaustion and dissatisfaction.
  2. Question the societal pressure to save time and optimize efficiency, considering what tasks truly elicit fidelity and care.
  3. Embrace a form of life that values meaningful engagement, care, and relationships over productivity and automation.

Looking vs. Seeing

Mica’s Newsletter • 2 HN points • 22 Mar 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Epistemology Metaphysics Aesthetics Ethics
  1. Looking just means directing your eyes at something. Seeing is about understanding and being aware of what you're looking at.
  2. There's often more going on in front of us than we realize. If we take time to really see, we can discover hidden truths.
  3. Once you truly see something, it sticks with you. It can change how you view the world and what you notice every day.

Sunday Snippets #2

Aliveness Studies • 3 implied HN points • 26 Mar 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Life Time
  1. Desire and longing can be cherished as sensations in themselves, independent of the object being desired.
  2. Don't wait for permission to pursue your goals and dreams; time is finite and waiting only delays progress.
  3. Life is short and unpredictable, so value and make time for the important people in your life.

☞ AI, the God of the Gaps, and Our Quintessential Humanity

Cabinet of Wonders • 2 HN points • 23 May 23
🕹 Technology AI Existentialism Ethics Artificial General Intelligence Humanity
  1. AI technologies are advancing rapidly and causing society to question the essence of humanity.
  2. As AI accomplishes tasks once thought unique to humans, concerns arise about job security and existential dread.
  3. It's essential to focus on our quintessential humanity, not just what makes us unique, and find meaning in our lives beyond what AI can do.

Title: Finding Peace in a World of Uncertainty: Lessons from Epictetus

Wayne's Earth • 0 implied HN points • 13 Dec 23
📖 Philosophy Stoicism Resilience Existentialism
  1. Anxiety often comes from desires for things beyond our control like success, approval, and more. This leads to restlessness and discontent.
  2. Stoicism, like Epictetus taught, emphasizes focusing on controlling our responses and actions, rather than external events beyond our control.
  3. To find peace amidst chaos, identify what's within your control, focus on your responses to situations, cultivate inner resilience, and embrace the present moment.

Peak Performance Newsletter #4 | On the Price of Reaction, Nihilism, and Calling out the Elephant in the Room

The Leadership Lab • 0 implied HN points • 30 Sep 21
📖 Philosophy Nihilism Ethics Existentialism Meaning
  1. Reacting to situations can distance us from our true selves. Instead of reacting automatically, pause, accept, and acknowledge to gain clarity on the right way forward.
  2. Ignoring important, uncomfortable truths can create tension. Bringing unspoken issues into the open space is crucial for growth and resolution.
  3. Nihilism, the belief that everything is meaningless, can limit our view and lead to missing out on positive aspects of life. The world is more nuanced than just black and white perspectives.

Deathbed regrets and hard-won life lessons

Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends • 0 implied HN points • 04 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Existentialism Artificial Intelligence Influencer Culture Social media Self-reflection
  1. Many older TikTok users are using filters to reflect on their past and share life lessons, blurring the line between nostalgia and introspection.
  2. Various thought-provoking articles are recommended for weekend reads, covering topics like AI vs. human consciousness and the impact of influencers.
  3. A roundup of various tech-related topics like the resurgence of work phones, the use of AI for mental health, and the evolving landscape of social media content on platforms like TikTok.

A Repeat Read To Contemplate

The False Consensus Effect • 0 implied HN points • 26 Nov 21
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Tradition
  1. The author shares a video and links to a previous post about False Consensus to encourage contemplation on Black Friday.
  2. The author expresses a desire to create a tradition around discussing environmental threats like urgent human-made dangers to life on Earth.
  3. The post emphasizes the importance of internal and external sanity and reflection.

Book Review: “Looking for a meaning of Live” by Viktor Frankl 4/5

Poczwardowski Notes • 0 implied HN points • 11 Feb 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Meaning of life
  1. Viktor Frankl's book 'Looking for a meaning of Life' delves into his experiences in Nazi death camps and the concept of Logotherapy, emphasizing the importance of finding meaning in life.
  2. The book explores the capacity of humans to endure harrowing situations and the significance of a purposeful life, drawing lessons from extreme conditions.
  3. Through the lens of psychological therapy, the stories from the brink of existence highlight the crucial role of having a meaning in life.