The hottest Feminism Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Culture Topics

The home project

Men Yell at Me • 444 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Feminism Homeownership Gender Roles Resistance
  1. Many women are stepping into the role of homeowners, challenging traditional views about women's independence. Single women now own more homes than single men, which shows a shift in who controls their living spaces.
  2. Home can be a place of empowerment and resistance. Creating and renovating a home allows people to reshape their environments, making it a sanctuary that reflects their values and identities.
  3. Despite societal pressures to conform to traditional female roles, women are finding strength and safety in their personal space. Making a home their own can help women resist being pushed back into outdated domestic expectations.

A Sex Strike isn't Going to Work

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 7576 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Feminism Society Media History Politics Gender
  1. Cultural appropriation happens when one group takes aspects of another group's culture without understanding its significance. American women joining the South Korean 4B movement might be seen as doing this, as they are adopting a struggle that is not theirs.
  2. A collective sex strike faces many challenges. It requires everyone to agree and act together, which is hard since individuals might choose to break the strike and miss out on the potential benefits without facing consequences.
  3. Looking at history, past movements didn't always work out as planned. Striking for change isn't as simple as withholding something, especially in a democracy where individual freedoms and choices are valued.

Have Man-Hating Feminists Gone Too Far?

The Discourse Lounge • 5052 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Feminism Gender Issues Political culture Social movements Voting behavior
  1. Some people believe modern feminism blames men for societal problems, which may affect how certain men vote. There seems to be a divide where many men support anti-feminist views, while women tend to support feminist-leaning candidates.
  2. A personal experience in a feminist class revealed that the course didn't promote hate towards men but rather focused on broader social issues like economics and inclusivity. The class provided a more nuanced understanding of feminism that counters online stereotypes.
  3. The negative perceptions of feminism among some young men often come from online content rather than actual feminist theory. Engaging directly with feminist education can help dispel myths and offer a better understanding of gender issues.

Too many of you care too much about sex

Sex and the State • 15 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Gender Social Issues Feminism Political Commentary
  1. Many people focus too much on the topic of sex, which can lead to unnecessary stress. It's important to recognize that there are more aspects to life than just sex.
  2. The discussion around sex often gets tied to societal issues, but it's crucial to separate personal experiences from broader problems. Balancing both can help bring clarity.
  3. There’s a reminder that enjoying life and personal freedoms can be more fulfilling than getting caught up in the debates about sex and gender. Finding joy in everyday life is important.

Abusers In Plain Sight

Culture Study • 3937 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Relationships Feminism Trauma Identity
  1. Writing about trauma can bring up a lot of painful memories. It's important to realize that revisiting these experiences requires healing and self-reflection.
  2. Women often feel pressured to maintain relationships through hard work, which can lead to toxic situations. It's crucial to understand when it's time to leave a damaging relationship.
  3. There are many layers to women's experiences of desire and consent in relationships. It’s important to have open conversations about what that looks like and to support each other in understanding our needs.
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Rebel Girls

gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen • 1190 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Feminism Gender Issues Youth culture Identity Media influence
  1. Young girls today face new challenges that weren't present in the past, like social media pressures and unrealistic beauty standards. These factors can harm their self-esteem and mental health.
  2. There's a growing concern about the lack of safe spaces for girls and women to express themselves freely. Many fear speaking out due to potential backlash or judgment.
  3. It's important for girls to learn to love their bodies and build confidence. Staying active, making real-life connections, and enjoying their freedom can help them navigate their identities and lives better.

Lee Lakeman and The Whoredom of the Left

The Chris Hedges Report • 300 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Feminism Neoliberalism Social justice Political Activism Patriarchy
  1. Lee Lakeman believes prostitution is a form of economic slavery, reflecting the failures of capitalism. Many women and girls engage in it not by choice, but out of desperation.
  2. The fight against prostitution is also a battle against dehumanizing neoliberal capitalism. Lakeman emphasizes that true activism should focus on protecting vulnerable individuals rather than accepting the status quo.
  3. There is a deep division within the left regarding issues of women's rights and exploitation. Lakeman argues that without acknowledging these issues, the left becomes ineffective in truly supporting all marginalized groups.

Wars of the Sexes

In My Tribe • 820 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Gender Issues Social Change Human Rights Cultural Conflict Feminism
  1. Cultural conflicts often arise between men and women, but not everyone fits neatly into one side or the other. It's more about which side certain people feel connected to.
  2. Women's movements like suffrage and temperance had a huge impact historically, but not every cause gained lasting support. For example, the end of Prohibition showed a shift in societal values.
  3. There's a growing trend in institutions towards more feminine values, but this can create tension. Ideally, we should find a way for masculine and feminine values to coexist peacefully and appreciate each other.

Casting the First Stone

Thinking about... • 464 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Religion Politics Social Issues Feminism
  1. Many people misunderstand the themes and messages in 'The Handmaid's Tale,' often blaming one religion while ignoring the complexities of the story.
  2. The story serves as a warning about the dangers of blindly following ideologies that can lead to oppressive regimes, just like the fictional Gilead.
  3. It's important to reflect on our own beliefs and behaviors, especially when they can lead to harmful actions against others, as seen in the novel.

two new YouTube video essays!

Switch Hitter • 438 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Media Feminism Celebrity Transgender Relationships
  1. New YouTube videos explore parasocial relationships and gender issues. They look closely at how fans' behavior can mimic harassment.
  2. One video challenges the idea that trans people reinforce gender stereotypes. It argues that this view is based on flawed logic and double standards.
  3. There are plans for more video essays in the future, covering various topics. The creator is still committed to writing while expanding to video content.

The War of the Sexes

Disaffected Newsletter • 2837 implied HN points • 09 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Feminism Social Dynamics
  1. Many straight men feel they cannot be honest with women or even their male friends due to fear of being labeled as sexist. They often feel frustrated with how they're treated in conversations about gender issues.
  2. There's a feeling among some men that modern women have gained advantages in society without being held to the same standards as men. This perceived imbalance creates tension and contributes to men's reluctance to engage with women.
  3. The relationship dynamics between men and women can be unhealthy, with each side sometimes provoking the other negatively. It's important to understand and address these issues for better understanding between the genders.

Mad Wives

Men Yell at Me • 234 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Gender Issues Marriage Feminism Memoir Social Commentary
  1. In marriage, roles can be confusing. Sometimes women give a lot, and men take, leading to questions about consent and complicity.
  2. Anger can be a powerful force for change, but it's important to think about who it serves. If it only helps ourselves, it may not be truly revolutionary.
  3. Villains and victims often exist in shades of gray. The same person can embody both roles, making it hard to draw clear lines in relationships.

Why the Term 'Porn Star' Should Go

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 218 implied HN points • 12 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Language Media Society Feminism Sexuality
  1. The term 'porn star' is misleading because most performers aren't actually stars, just regular actors in adult films.
  2. Using euphemisms like 'porn star' can distort the truth and make serious topics less clear, which isn't helpful.
  3. The glamorization of pornography through phrases like 'porn star' raises questions about how we view and talk about these actors in society.

Taylor Swift and the Good Girl Trap

Culture Study • 10387 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Celebrities Feminism Analysis Society Identity
  1. Taylor Swift's fame and success put her in a delicate position where even her smallest actions are heavily scrutinized.
  2. Winning constantly can lead to over-saturation and make it hard for people to root for you, turning every move into a topic of critique.
  3. Celebrity culture reflects greater societal issues, such as discourses on girlhood and the struggles faced by privileged white women in progressive spaces.

Meet The Lipsdick: A Dick-Shaped Lipstick

The Unpublishable • 12421 implied HN points • 07 Mar 23
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Beauty Feminism Gender Art Marketing
  1. A lipstick shaped like a penis was launched, sparking discussions about beauty standards and feminism in the industry.
  2. The product's marketing as empowering and innovative is being questioned, as it may perpetuate stereotypes and lack depth.
  3. The controversy highlights issues with media coverage of such products, raising concerns about critical thinking and substance in journalism.

Enchantment is resistance

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 4792 implied HN points • 01 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Feminism Nature Events Psychology
  1. Enchantment can be a form of resistance, challenging the myths that contribute to ongoing issues and inspiring new ways of being.
  2. Writers and storytellers play a crucial role in resistance by offering stories that help people imagine and desire a better world.
  3. Resistance to everyday evils can involve living differently day by day, making small changes that collectively create a positive impact.

A shockingly ignorant timeline

Sex and the State • 23 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Feminism Social Issues Gender 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.

Truth Leaks Out

Disaffected Newsletter • 779 implied HN points • 08 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Narcissism Feminism Media Critique Psychology
  1. Dementia can show hidden sides of a person's personality, like how Joe Biden's ego comes through in interviews after debates.
  2. Some argue that feminism ignores basic human instincts, claiming feelings like maternal instinct are just a result of societal pressure.
  3. Covert narcissism is trickier to spot than the usual, loud types. It's important to learn how to notice it before it causes harm.

"If a white person said that"

Disaffected Newsletter • 2557 implied HN points • 08 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Racism Feminism Identity politics Media Critique
  1. Some people say harsh things about white people that wouldn't be acceptable if said about others. This creates a double standard in society.
  2. Many white people agree with negative views about themselves, thinking it will make them seem better to others.
  3. The idea that white people hold all the power in society is outdated, and it's important to address current attitudes that accept harmful statements against them.

The Auckland Women’s Centre NZ knows how to beat the patriarchy – shame it’s completely bonkers.

A B’Old Woman • 639 implied HN points • 20 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Gender Rights Feminism Trans issues Social justice Activism
  1. There's a debate about including trans women in women's spaces and sports. Some believe it's necessary for ending patriarchy, while others think it threatens women's rights.
  2. The Auckland Women’s Centre promotes trans rights, arguing that supporting all gender identities helps fight against discrimination. They see trans rights as part of women's rights.
  3. There are concerns about the effects of transphobia, claiming it distracts from real issues facing women and undermines everyone who doesn't fit traditional gender roles.

The Trouble with ‘Murder at the End of the World’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3083 implied HN points • 20 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Feminism Literature Social Commentary
  1. In the show _A Murder at the End of the World_, the protagonist Darby Hart stands out as an unexpected detective due to her age and gender.
  2. The series aims to deliver feminist messages and social commentary, but some viewers find it heavy-handed and lacking originality.
  3. The portrayal of Darby as a young, attractive amateur detective solving a mystery challenges traditional crime genre conventions, but some viewers question the believability and depth of her character.

Vignette: the borderline mother and son

Disaffected Newsletter • 919 implied HN points • 03 May 24
🎭️ Culture Psychology Family Dynamics Sociology Media Analysis Feminism
  1. A borderline mother can deeply affect her son, creating a toxic environment filled with shame and fear. It's hard to watch because it feels so real and painful.
  2. The relationship can become a cycle of manipulation and emotional abuse, where the mother enjoys causing distress. It’s like a dark game that leads to outbursts of rage.
  3. Children raised in this environment often feel like nothing truly belongs to them, as their mother disregards their feelings and possessions. This can lead to lasting emotional scars.

Twenty years a target of the trans cabal

Julie Bindel's podcasts and writing • 1886 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Feminism Trans rights Activism Gender Ideology LGBTQ Rights
  1. The author has been targeted by trans activists for 20 years, facing protests, threats, and being de-platformed.
  2. The rise of gender ideology and the inclusion of trans rights have challenged traditional feminist views and sparked debates.
  3. Despite backlash, the author remains committed to advocating for women's rights and challenging bigotry.

if he wanted to, would he really?

Airplane Mode with Liz Plank • 1867 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Dating Gender Feminism Relationships Social media
  1. Men's behavior in relationships is not always as simple as 'If he wanted to, he would.'
  2. Slogans like 'If he wanted to, he would' may have underlying anti-feminist implications and oversimplify modern dating dynamics.
  3. In today's dating scene, understanding and compassion for both genders can help avoid misunderstandings and improve relationships.

I Was Fired for Supporting Women’s Sex-Based Rights. Now I’m Suing.

Reality's Last Stand • 3066 implied HN points • 22 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Feminism Discrimination Gender identity Workplace Issues
  1. Women's rights are in jeopardy when the ability to name ourselves and our sex-based rights is taken away.
  2. It is important to fight against discrimination and silencing of women in the workplace.
  3. Advocating for sex-based rights and standing up for one's beliefs is crucial for maintaining equality and basic human rights.

Why We Can't Stand Up

The Reclamation Era • 99 implied HN points • 13 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Comedy Feminism Performing Arts Women empowerment Storytelling
  1. Women in comedy often struggle to take up space and feel confident on stage. They sometimes feel they need to apologize or shrink themselves, which can hold them back.
  2. It's important for women to embrace their voices and power. By doing this, they can inspire others and feel more connected to their true selves.
  3. Creating safe spaces for female performers leads to more honest and relatable entertainment. It's crucial for women to support each other in the industry and share their stories without fear.

Two Years of Writing Emails

Burnt Toast by Virginia Sole-Smith • 2535 implied HN points • 06 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Writing Community Personal Growth Body Image Feminism
  1. Virginia Sole-Smith started Burnt Toast newsletter two years ago after leaving freelance writing for corporate media.
  2. Paid subscriptions from the community made it possible to sustain Burnt Toast, support marginalized voices, and fund various projects.
  3. The newsletter created a safe space for discussing body liberation, anti-fat bias, and building a supportive community.

Is Feminism Shrinking?

Letters from Suzanne • 2378 implied HN points • 06 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism Gender Politics
  1. Feminism may be shifting to a broader definition of womanhood, including male-bodied individuals.
  2. There are ongoing debates about trans women in sports and transgender inmates in women's prisons.
  3. The author sees a concerning trend of feminism being narrowed and losing its essence.