The hottest Existentialism Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Philosophy Topics

What if the Great Filter is complacency?

inexactscience • 19 implied HN points • 20 Oct 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Complacency might be the reason we don't see aliens. Instead of self-destruction, advanced civilizations may just choose to stay comfortable where they are.
  2. Economic reasons for space exploration could fade as the Earth becomes richer. If we make energy and resources abundant, we may not feel the need to explore beyond our planet.
  3. As the human population is expected to decline, the drive for exploration may lessen. With fewer people, our focus might shift to improving life on Earth rather than colonizing new worlds.

The Delusion Factor

Malt Liquidity • 10 implied HN points • 17 Jul 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Balancing between focusing on the present and planning for the future is important. It's okay to take things as they come, but you also need to work towards your goals.
  2. Understanding people’s motivations can help differentiate between conservative and liberal thinking. Conservatives tend to limit risky behavior while liberals focus on resolving negative situations.
  3. Success and achievements can feel unsatisfying if not connected to deeper personal fulfillment. It’s essential to look beyond accomplishments to find lasting happiness in life.

Courage and Moonshots

Castles in the Sky • 29 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Big, crazy ideas can spark real change. Even if they seem impossible, they can lead to groundbreaking outcomes, like space travel.
  2. Dealing with the unknown is key to growth. Embracing humility, curiosity, and courage helps us face challenges and pursue innovative ideas.
  3. It's important to focus on practical steps for achieving goals. Even the most visionary thinkers made their mark by doing the hard, everyday work.

Trusted AI #007 - My thoughts on AI Existentialism

Trusted • 19 implied HN points • 26 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Existentialism
  1. In the near-term, the risk of AI causing extinction is extremely unlikely based on current knowledge.
  2. In the long-term, the risk of extinction from AI is higher but uncertain, requiring more research and caution.
  3. Efforts to reduce uncertainty about AI risks are crucial, but hasty actions could potentially do more harm than good.

a dream with my grandparents

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 19 Aug 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  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.
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I don't think there's a conspiracy among AI scientists to trick the public into thinking AI might kill everyone

Philosophy bear • 121 implied HN points • 02 Jun 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Senior AI scientists emphasize the importance of addressing AI risks alongside other societal risks.
  2. There are doubts about whether AI scientists have ulterior motives in expressing concerns about AI risks.
  3. Even if the likelihood of AI risks is low, the potential consequences are severe enough to warrant serious attention and action.

Navigating the Waste Land

YouTopian Journey • 71 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Living in 2024 requires navigating through a modern waste land of inauthenticity
  2. Essential skill: Learn to navigate people, careers, ideas, opportunities, fraudsters, opinions, and falsehoods
  3. Importance of breaking away from the provided path to create your own journey and narrative

You are astonishingly unique

inexactscience • 19 implied HN points • 27 Jul 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  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.

In Deeper Darkness

What Is Called Thinking? • 106 implied HN points • 22 May 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Following knowledge may lead to deeper darkness than following action.
  2. The opposite of error is not truth, but another kind of error.
  3. Many traditions emphasize the importance of acknowledging one's own darkness and moving towards an affirmative stance.

What happened four years ago feels more like four lifetimes ago, no?

Tessa Fights Robots • 29 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. It's important to understand who you truly are and why you're here. Once you figure that out, the right actions will follow naturally.
  2. There’s a lot of noise in the world that seems important, but it often distracts us from what really matters. Focus on genuine love and connection instead of getting caught up in trends.
  3. Real change and understanding come from love and unity, not division or judgment. Emphasizing kindness can help break free from negative influences.

You are a blind idiot god

Philosophy bear • 64 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Every small action you take can have a significant impact on the world.
  2. History and future events are shaped by seemingly random chances.
  3. Our power to influence the world is often used inadvertently, leading to uncertain consequences.

Box #4

What Is Called Thinking? • 21 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Being outraged online seems to be popular, even though it's not a nice feeling. People share outrage more than any other emotion, which might say a lot about our current social media habits.
  2. Our minds focus on what we find important, similar to how certain AI models operate. This brings to light how rituals and habits can shape our thinking and keep what matters most in our attention.
  3. There's a growing recognition that we all have a perspective on the future, even if we don't realize it. Discussions about technology and its impact hint at deeper societal issues that we need to consider.

Box #7

What Is Called Thinking? • 18 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Expertise is not just about having more knowledge; it's about knowing how to organize that knowledge effectively, a skill known as chunking.
  2. As software development becomes easier for AI, university professors need to prove why their teaching is still valuable or risk being replaced by technology.
  3. Finding deeper meaning in life is important; comfort and ease can lead to a lack of purpose, so striving for something greater is crucial.

"Just Tell Me What To Do"

Living Fossils • 26 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Many people today feel overwhelmed by choices and just want someone to guide them. This need comes from the stress of having to make so many decisions in life.
  2. Science provides clear and accurate answers but often lacks comforting explanations for big life questions. This can leave people feeling lost and spiritually empty.
  3. We’re seeing a shift in how society shares values and norms, leading to individualism. This makes it hard for people to know the right choices, causing them to seek external guidance.

A Short Reflection on Examining

Theory Matters • 1 implied HN point • 02 Jan 26
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Self-examination is important for growth and moral improvement, pushing us to question life instead of passively accepting it.
  2. Easy shortcuts to knowledge—like AI, quick videos, and the internet—can undermine deep contemplation and make us intellectually and emotionally poorer while also spreading shallow or false ideas.
  3. Too much introspection can be paralyzing, so we need a balance that preserves the difficult work of learning and meaning without falling into harmful overthinking.

Sartre's Stratagem

Euro Desk Paris • 19 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
📚 Literature Existentialism
  1. Sartre provocatively claimed people were most free during German occupation
  2. Sartre challenges conventional thoughts on freedom and authenticity
  3. Consider revisiting Sartre's works for his profound, innovative perspectives and unique style

The Wisdom of Insecurity

peoplefirstengineering • 17 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Life is full of uncertainties, and it's important to accept that things will not always be stable. Embracing this uncertainty can lead to less anxiety.
  2. Our focus on the past and future often distracts us from enjoying the present moment. Learning to be aware of now can help reduce feelings of insecurity.
  3. Connecting with others and fostering community can help combat feelings of isolation and anxiety. Building strong relationships provides valuable support during tough times.

Revisited: The Unbearable Weakness of Reality

Theofuturism • 7 implied HN points • 05 Jul 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Existentialism
  1. Life is fragile and can change in an instant. We should appreciate the moments we have because everything can feel unstable and temporary.
  2. What seems real often has cracks beneath the surface. Many things we trust are just appearances, and we might need to question what we consider genuine.
  3. We all have faith in something, but that faith can guide us through uncertainty. Instead of fearing what we don’t know, we should embrace the journey of discovering new truths.

What We Suffer For

Living Fossils • 19 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Writing can be a double-edged sword. It brings joy and purpose, but it can also take you away from real-life experiences.
  2. Many people accept suffering to fit in and maintain their identity. They often fear what they would become if they let go of that identity.
  3. People often endure pain to avoid loss. They may stick with unhappy jobs or relationships just to prevent the fear of losing something they have.

Being Patrick Bateman

Anxiety Addiction & Ascension • 39 implied HN points • 29 Mar 22
🎭️ Culture 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.

A Bowl of Roses

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 15 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. The imaginal world is a special realm that exists independently, but we can only access it through our soul's understanding. It's like a bridge connecting our physical experiences and spiritual awareness.
  2. To perceive this imaginal world, we need to work on ourselves and develop a clean heart. This 'active imagination' helps us see deeper meanings and visions.
  3. The imaginal space offers real interactions with archetypal images and spiritual beings, helping seekers gain insight and understanding beyond the ordinary.

Yelling into the storm- a protest against mental agony

Philosophy bear • 71 implied HN points • 05 Jun 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Sometimes, we don't have as much control over our lives as we think we do, and that realization can be scary.
  2. Mental pain is often overlooked and not given the urgent attention it deserves by society and healthcare systems.
  3. The belief that pain is character-building or insignificant unless it has noticeable effects is a harmful societal lie; we must prioritize abolishing mental agony.

“Can AI have a soul?” — A conversation with a Christian monk

psychotechnology • 6 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. The conversation explored if AI can have a soul, suggesting that in Christianity, a soul is linked to divine breath and life beyond just the body.
  2. The monk felt that while AI is strong, it lacks creativity and emotional depth, relating it to human limitations but emphasizing that AI is fundamentally different.
  3. Reflecting on Christianity, the text raises questions about its beliefs and practices, pondering if it can be reinterpreted or 'refactored' like Buddhism has been by modern thinkers.

You're Living in a Simulation, Wake Up!

Sector 6 | The Newsletter of AIM • 19 implied HN points • 23 Mar 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  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.

Mars Isn't Enough

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 15 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Modern society is facing a legitimation crisis, meaning people feel disconnected and lack shared values or purpose. This breakdown of old beliefs leaves a void that can be filled by extreme ideologies.
  2. Many attempts to create a universal moral framework without a unifying story have not worked well. This leads to more chaos and fragmentation in society.
  3. An idea called monistic idealism suggests that consciousness is the basic reality, which could help rebuild social connections and inspire care for each other and the planet right now.

Random Thoughts #11: Nothing Lasts Forever!

Spyderdoc Newsletter • 19 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Life has its ups and downs, but tough times always pass. It's important to stay calm and keep pushing forward.
  2. Hard work usually pays off, and positive thinking can help you overcome challenges. Focus on yourself and what you can control.
  3. Nothing lasts forever, so enjoy the good moments and keep a positive attitude, even when times are tough.

All is Water

What Is Called Thinking? • 80 implied HN points • 13 Feb 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. There used to be a quest for a grand theory of everything, but that's less common now.
  2. Philosophy needs to remain tentative and open to falsification.
  3. Different thinkers approach the idea of totalizing theories in various ways, from seeking consensus to celebrating uniqueness.

Signs

We're Gonna Get Those Bastards • 13 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Coincidences can be more than random events; they might be signs guiding us in life. Recognizing these moments can help us feel there's a deeper order to things.
  2. Faith and belief play a big role in how we perceive our experiences. Whether we see events as luck or a purposeful plan can change how we respond to life's challenges.
  3. We often resist what's happening in our lives, but acceptance can lead to better outcomes. Embracing situations as they come can bring peace and clarity.

Gratitude Redux

Gideon's Substack • 16 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Gratitude is about focusing on the good things in life, even when there are also bad things happening. It helps us see the positives without having to judge everything.
  2. Even tough experiences can teach us valuable lessons and help us grow. Feeling gratitude doesn't mean we ignore the bad; it just helps us appreciate the good that can come from it.
  3. Gratitude and justice are different but can coexist. We can be thankful for what we have while also recognizing the injustices in the world and working to make it better.

Finite and infinite games

The Jolly Contrarian • 39 implied HN points • 17 Apr 22
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  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.

Other Minds

Covidian Æsthetics • 11 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. AI can mimic human-like thinking and creativity, but it does so without true feeling or understanding. It's like a reflection rather than an original.
  2. Different types of consciousness exist on a spectrum, from purely instinctive to fully self-directed. Understanding these types helps us grasp how consciousness behaves across various beings, including AI.
  3. Intersecting types of consciousness create unique experiences and insights, like how human and AI thoughts can influence each other in new and complex ways.

23 principles

Midnight Musings • 39 implied HN points • 04 Apr 22
📖 Philosophy 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.

What's Ready to Die?

David Spinks' Newsletter • 10 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. Everything in life goes through cycles of death and rebirth. We should embrace these changes instead of resisting them.
  2. Letting go of what no longer serves us can lead to new beginnings and opportunities. It's important to recognize what might be holding us back.
  3. Facing the unknown can be scary, but trusting in the process can lead to growth and a better understanding of ourselves.

Standing in the Center of the Unknowing as the World Cries. What to Do?

Charles Eisenstein • 10 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism
  1. There are big questions about how we farm and feed the world, especially concerning the impacts of high-tech agriculture versus organic methods. It's important to rethink how we connect with nature while feeding our population.
  2. Personal healing and intimate connection are crucial in a world filled with chaos and violence. The work of those helping people find healthy relationships can create hope and potentially transform society.
  3. Technology, especially AI, is powerful but also has limits. It might solve surface problems but won't offer real solutions to deeper issues like control and suffering in society.