The hottest Feminism Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Is Feminism Shrinking?

Letters from Suzanne • 2378 implied HN points • 06 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  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.

Abusers In Plain Sight

Culture Study • 3937 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  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.

The coolest medieval woman you've never heard of

weird medieval guys • 1926 implied HN points • 06 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. Christine de Pizan was one of Europe's first professional female writers and a French nationalist.
  2. Her most famous work, _The Book of the City of Ladies_, is considered one of the earliest feminist writings.
  3. _The Book of the City of Ladies_ critiques misogyny, redefines female characters from history, and calls for gender equality.

2024: the year we 'un-kind' ourselves.

A B’Old Woman • 859 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. This year, some people want to stop being kind just because it's expected. They feel like kindness should be personal and not forced.
  2. There's concern that being kind to everyone could actually hurt certain groups, especially women, by allowing men who identify as women into their spaces.
  3. The idea of kindness is seen as being used to manipulate people, making them do things that may not be fair or right for everyone involved.
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Feminists: tell me what you believe?

Disaffected Newsletter • 1278 implied HN points • 01 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. Feminism means different things to different people. It's important for individuals to share their personal definitions and beliefs about feminism.
  2. Supporting equal rights for women doesn't necessarily mean someone identifies as a feminist. Some believe those rights can be supported without using the term 'feminism.'
  3. There's a chance that arguments over feminism arise from misunderstandings of the term. People might think they disagree when their definitions are just different.

EXCLUSIVE: Gloria Steinem on boys and men

Of Boys and Men • 75 implied HN points • 20 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. Gender equality should include boys and men as beneficiaries too, and we must break down job and role stereotypes so anyone can pursue caring or technical work regardless of gender.
  2. Joy, humor, and a positive tone make the equality movement more infectious and effective than anger or negativity, so being uplifting matters as much as being critical.
  3. Aim for a humanist future where gender matters less by improving representation, embracing the best parts of different communication and leadership styles, and making sure everyone can see themselves in every role.

I’m not self-optimizing anymore

Men Yell at Me • 705 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. Everyone seems to be focused on self-improvement and beauty, but it's overwhelming. It can make you want to give up and embrace bad habits instead.
  2. Marketing around beauty and wellness often puts pressure on women, making them feel they need to constantly change to be accepted. This adds unnecessary stress and financial burden.
  3. The push for perfection in appearance doesn't protect women from prejudice or challenges in life. It's important to recognize that superficial changes won’t fix deeper societal issues.

Castrated Utopias: What Barbie and Oppenheimer reveal about our sexual politics

The Bigger Picture • 1577 implied HN points • 16 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. Memes reflect our collective desires and reveal social realities, creating powerful cultural moments through stories and rituals.
  2. Barbie's portrayal of feminism touches on complexities of social construction and biological differences, navigating between metamodern feminism and simplistic depictions of masculinity.
  3. Exploring gender politics through films like Barbie and Oppenheimer highlights the absence of mature, responsible masculine figures and the ongoing importance of fatherhood in society.

What Sexual Liberation Really Looks Like

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1794 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. Hookup culture mainly helps men while often making things harder for women. It's important to recognize how this affects women's experiences.
  2. Casual sex isn't necessarily a good thing for women, and deeper connections with partners can lead to more fulfilling relationships.
  3. Not all sexual desires should be acted on, and women don't have to participate in hookup culture just because it's popular.

Sense and Sensibility: on choosing men

bookbear express • 577 implied HN points • 20 Aug 25
📚 Literature Feminism
  1. Choosing the right partner is really important for women, as seen in stories like Sense and Sensibility. Some characters learn that being excited by a charming person can lead to bad choices.
  2. Books often show how women face serious consequences if they pick the wrong men. Characters like Emma Bovary and Anna Karenina fall for the wrong types, showing the dangers of ignoring solid character.
  3. It's essential to balance passion with sense when choosing partners. Characters who rely only on their feelings often face tragic outcomes, while those who think carefully tend to have better lives.

Justin Baldoni and the Death of Man-Bun Feminism

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1646 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. Justin Baldoni, once seen as a strong male feminist ally, is now facing serious accusations of sexual harassment from his co-star, Blake Lively.
  2. The situation has escalated with Baldoni suing Lively, claiming she is trying to extort him and releasing evidence to support his case.
  3. Despite the serious nature of these accusations, some reacted with humor in public appearances, which seems inappropriate given the circumstances.

Pride and Poverty? Lizzy Bennet's financial prospects.

The Common Reader • 1452 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
📚 Literature Feminism
  1. Lizzy Bennet's family has a good income, so she's not in danger of starving or facing true poverty. Even if she stays single, her situation is better than what some people think.
  2. The idea that Austen's characters face extreme poverty is overstated. Rather, their concerns are about losing status and a comfortable lifestyle, not about basic survival.
  3. When discussing genteel poverty, it's important to remember that Lizzy's financial prospects are still well above average for her time, making her situation more about class than actual financial distress.

Should Your Husband Tie Your Shoes?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 626 implied HN points • 16 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. The term 'princess treatment' refers to traditional acts of chivalry like opening doors and giving flowers, which some young women are celebrating today. It's basically a fun way to rebrand old-school dating manners.
  2. Social media has sparked a lot of controversy around this concept, with some people praising it while others criticize it as outdated or even harmful. The discussions are often exaggerated to get more attention online.
  3. A TikToker named Courtney Palmer has taken this trend further by promoting extreme ideas of 'princess treatment,' like refusing to walk in the rain or even talk to restaurant staff. This has led to a big backlash and more debate in the media.

Does Jane Austen hate you?

The Common Reader • 1488 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
📚 Literature Feminism
  1. Jane Austen used satire to challenge and criticize society, rather than simply portraying it in a positive light. Her works often reveal her disdain for social norms and the people who uphold them.
  2. Austen's characters often provoke a sense of superiority in readers, showing their flaws in a humorous way. This allows readers to laugh at their shortcomings but also reflects Austen's complicated feelings about her society.
  3. Critics like W.D. Harding and Marvin Mudrick examined Austen's work with different perspectives, highlighting her use of irony and the psychological complexity of characters over moral judgments.

Year in Review, 2023

In the Flash • 799 implied HN points • 20 Dec 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Feminism
  1. The author is thankful for the support and growth of their newsletter in 2023, especially from paid subscribers.
  2. Some of the most popular posts in 2023 focused on topics like viral fashion images, AI photography, and photography do's and don'ts.
  3. Personal stories and reflections on topics like vulnerability in photography and feminist representation also resonated with readers.

The Real Reason Actresses Are Rejecting Intimacy Coordinators

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 644 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. Some famous actresses are saying they don't need intimacy coordinators for sex scenes, believing they can handle it themselves. They feel it's important to have more freedom in how these scenes are performed.
  2. Critics argue that rejecting intimacy coordinators could be harmful, especially in the wake of the #MeToo movement. They worry this could lead to unsafe working environments for actors.
  3. There's a history of troubling practices in film, like in the past when actors were put in uncomfortable situations without their consent. As a result, there's a push for more safety and professionalism in filming intimate scenes now.

The Transcult: II

Not On Your Team, But Always Fair • 943 implied HN points • 02 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. Feminism and academic feminism played a major role in rejecting evolution, a key component for the Transcult.
  2. The Transcult leverages historical treatment of homosexuals to push its agenda and can be monetized as a 'consumerist civil rights' cause.
  3. The Transcult's emergence is a mix of social contagion, intense sexualization, and a contradictory relationship with feminism.

Male sexual desire is good, actually

Sex and the State • 89 implied HN points • 08 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. Male sexual desire isn’t inherently bad. It helps make sex happen, and sex can be fun, intimate, and important for reproduction and connection.
  2. The real problem is gender norms, not desire. Masculinity pressures men to perform constant horniness and to be pushy or entitled, which leads to harmful behavior.
  3. Sex-negativity and shame are the true dangers. Reducing stigma and adopting sex-positive attitudes would be healthier and cut down on harm.

Attack of the 50something women

The Shift With Sam Baker • 838 implied HN points • 29 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. Women over 50 are showcasing their skills and confidence in various fields, challenging the notion that they should be invisible.
  2. Prominent female figures like Sharlene Spiteri, Cate Blanchett, and Jo Whiley are inspiring with their energy and talent at ages 54-57.
  3. The growing visibility of women over 50 in media, entertainment, and other industries may signify the start of a movement towards inclusivity and recognition.

Sticks and stones

Disaffected Newsletter • 1578 implied HN points • 17 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. Not everyone has to like the same things. It's okay for someone to dislike flamboyant expressions without it being a moral issue.
  2. It's important to appreciate criticism and differing tastes instead of getting offended. Many people can still support you while having their own preferences.
  3. Everyone has different opinions, and that's normal. We should focus on common ground instead of getting upset over personal tastes.

Trying To Make Sense Of The Venus Figurines?

Grey Goose Chronicles • 805 implied HN points • 02 Apr 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Feminism
  1. The interpretation of Venus figurines has evolved over time with theories ranging from race and primitivism to goddess worship and fertility magic.
  2. Scholars have debated whether the figurines are realistic representations of Palaeolithic people or symbolic artifacts with functions related to protection, fertility, or ancestoral worship.
  3. Recent studies have explored the possibility of the figurines being dressed, connected to clothing, and even representing maternal figures based on archaeological evidence.

Where did our millennial ambition go?

Men Yell at Me • 452 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Feminism
  1. Many millennials feel disillusioned with the American Dream because the systems they trusted have failed them. They’re realizing that success is often elusive, despite hard work.
  2. Instead of chasing individual ambitions, some are shifting their focus to community goals. They want to advocate for systemic change and help others succeed.
  3. There's a growing conversation among millennials about redefining ambition. They’re questioning what it means to be successful and seeking happiness beyond traditional measures.

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

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3083 implied HN points • 20 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  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.

Models Crying

SBJournal • 452 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. The 80s Lesbian Revolution in Photography challenged traditional beauty standards and stereotypes through provocative and empowering imagery.
  2. On Our Backs magazine broke barriers by featuring women photographers capturing diverse, sexual, and honest portrayals of women, disrupting the male-dominated photography industry.
  3. The models in On Our Backs were diverse and unapologetic, embracing their sexuality and challenging societal norms, sparking controversy and discussion surrounding women's desires and identities.

Feminism Didn't Kill The Fertility Rate

Erik Examines • 447 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Feminism
  1. Feminism is not the main cause of falling fertility rates. In fact, data shows that more feminist countries often have higher birth rates.
  2. Women generally want children at a younger age than men. Economic factors and men's preferences play a bigger role in families having fewer children.
  3. To increase birth rates, societies need to address economic challenges faced by young couples, like housing costs and job security, rather than blaming feminism.

Women Control Sex. Now What?

Many Such Cases • 1159 implied HN points • 07 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. Women have a significant influence over when heterosexual sex happens. This power isn't new and many women are aware of it.
  2. The current decline in sexual activity isn't solely a problem caused by gender dynamics. It reflects a larger cultural issue that both men and women are navigating.
  3. Instead of blaming women for controlling sex, men should focus on improving themselves. Complaining about the situation won't change it; being a more appealing partner will.

Lost in a Sea of Pixels: Men, Pornography, and the Illusion of Control

Julie Bindel's podcasts and writing • 727 implied HN points • 16 May 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. Pornography offers a quick escape from intense emotions and intimacy, providing an illusion of control for men.
  2. The feminist critique of pornography highlights its negative impacts on women in production and consumption.
  3. Habitual use of pornography can lead to a loss of control, creating a cycle that may require therapy and open communication to break.

What's got my attention this week #29

The Shift With Sam Baker • 519 implied HN points • 08 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. The post is a collection of interesting links and recommendations for the week.
  2. One notable highlight is about a Canadian traffic reporter standing up to body shaming.
  3. The post dives into various topics including Taylor Swift, emotional numbness, life without alcohol, and discussions on the gender binary.

Barbie and Killers of the Flower Moon

Castalia • 399 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. The movie 'Barbie' is all about world-building and creativity. It mixes different genres and offers a fun view on feminism, showing that it's not just about power, but also understanding emotions and relationships.
  2. In contrast, 'Killers of the Flower Moon' focuses on the dark side of American history. It tells a sad story about greed and racism, showcasing how these forces affected the Osage people and their lives.
  3. Both films represent different styles of storytelling. 'Barbie' uses imagination and humor, while 'Killers of the Flower Moon' highlights serious historical themes, inviting viewers to think deeply about America’s past.

How British Abortion Advocates Overplayed Their Hand

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 412 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Feminism
  1. British lawmakers recently voted to decriminalize abortion until birth, a big change for the country's abortion laws. Supporters believe this will enhance reproductive rights and prevent women from facing criminal investigations after ending a pregnancy.
  2. Some feminists are worried that pushing for such extreme changes might lead to a backlash against abortion rights. They think it's important to find a balance and not go too far too fast, which could hurt the movement.
  3. A proposed amendment aimed to establish abortion as a human right and remove almost all regulations. However, many critics argue that this could create more problems than solutions.

Sororal Treachery

Disaffected Newsletter • 759 implied HN points • 10 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Feminism
  1. A mommy vlogger was arrested for serious child abuse after her son sought help from a neighbor. This shows that sometimes people appear perfect online but may hide troubling realities.
  2. Some feminists are criticizing a sorority for accepting a transgender woman as a member, claiming it's a betrayal to women. This highlights ongoing debates about gender identity and women's rights.
  3. Important issues like car theft, children's education, and legal actions against popular figures are currently being discussed in society. These examples show the complexity of legal and social justice in our communities.

But they're mocking women!

Disaffected Newsletter • 1278 implied HN points • 13 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Feminism
  1. Transgender ideology has serious issues, especially when it comes to the safety and privacy of women.
  2. There's a concern about the influence of this ideology on children, leading to potential medical and psychological harm.
  3. Women should not be overly sensitive to mockery; instead, they should respond with confidence and not let it affect their sense of identity.

But What About the Men?

The Reclamation Era • 119 implied HN points • 20 May 24
🎭️ Culture Feminism
  1. Women should support each other and lift each other up, as this creates a stronger community. It's important to celebrate women's achievements and encourage solidarity among them.
  2. Men also deserve to pursue happiness and personal growth. Just like women, men should have the opportunity to work on themselves and strive for a fulfilling life.
  3. Being a feminist doesn't mean hating men. It involves advocating for women's rights while also recognizing the importance of good men who contribute positively to society.