The hottest Identity Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways

I’m Finally Hanging My American Flag

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 7076 implied HN points • 03 Jul 25

The author grew up in an environment that viewed the American flag and patriotism negatively. Their upbringing focused on social justice and activism rather than celebrating the flag.
The author's perspective changed over time, leading them to finally hang the flag outside their home, which signifies a shift in how they relate to their country's symbols.
The flag has personal significance for the author, tied to the memories of their grandparents, yet they struggle with the conflict between national pride and historical injustices.

against narrative

internet princess • 50282 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24

🎭️ Culture Relationships Narrative Emotion Identity Art

Love can be really complicated and messy, and it's common to have both good and painful experiences in a relationship. Sometimes we find ourselves questioning if we were good or bad partners.
People often want to turn their experiences into neat stories to make sense of them, but real feelings and relationships are much more complex and can't always fit into a simple narrative.
Accepting the complexity of our emotions and experiences, rather than just trying to find answers, can be liberating and help us truly live with our feelings.

dancing with the brain demons: what artists really need (spoiler: each other)

Both Are True • 65 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Art Creativity Community Expression Identity

Artists often struggle with inner doubts and negative thoughts, which can be seen as 'demonic messages' that hinder creativity. It's important to recognize these feelings and understand they are part of the creative process.
Balancing being an artist with helping other artists is a challenge, but creating supportive spaces for collaboration and interaction can be rewarding and impactful.
Community is essential for artists; connecting with others can provide motivation, inspiration, and a sense of belonging that enhances the creative experience.

On Being Butthurt

The Elif Life • 3249 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24

🎭️ Culture Writing Privilege Identity Education Humor

Keeping a notebook can help capture funny or interesting moments in life. It’s a way to notice the lighter side of things, even when life feels heavy.
Feeling butthurt often comes from comparing ourselves to others and their privileges. This can lead to unnecessary resentment instead of recognizing our own journey.
Writing can be a way to overcome feelings of butthurt. It allows us to connect with our past selves and remember our growth over time.

Guest post: The Global IQ Debate: A Modest Contribution From A Resident African

Wood From Eden • 9312 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25

🎭️ Culture Intelligence Society Education Identity Racism

Living in a society with a low average IQ can shape people's abilities and social structures differently than in higher IQ societies. Even with low IQ scores, many can still function well in their communities, often adapting culturally.
Education systems may favor rote learning over creativity, so high IQ individuals might struggle in these environments. The focus is often on memorization rather than understanding concepts, leading to discrepancies between IQ and academic performance.
Cultural values and personality traits can impact societal progress. In places where tribal or religious affiliations dominate, collective efforts toward improvement can be hindered by corruption and a lack of scientific reasoning.

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Y’a des trucs de blancs et des trucs de noirs

L'Atelier Galita • 179 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24

🎭️ Culture Identity Race Society Humor Traditions

Some activities or preferences are often seen as belonging to specific racial or cultural groups. For example, dressing up for parties might seem like a 'white thing' to some.
Certain behaviors, like having a picnic on the ground or wearing outdoor pants in bed, can also be perceived as more common among white people.
These observations can be surprising and not universally accepted, showing how cultural differences shape our views on everyday activities.

The devil comes at night

Disaffected Newsletter • 1718 implied HN points • 28 Sep 24

🎭️ Culture Faith Fear Identity Supernatural Literature

Fear can linger long after experiencing scary stories. A movie or book may heighten existing fears that you have had since childhood.
Some fears, like those of the devil or ghosts, can be powerful even if you don't believe they exist. It's interesting how our minds can create beliefs that clash with our logic.
Nighttime can bring out these fears, leading to feelings of dread. It's common to wonder if these fears are linked to ourselves or our past choices.

Do good work and your fits will follow

Blackbird Spyplane • 3277 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24

🎭️ Culture Fashion Art Celebrity Style Identity

Doing good work can enhance how people see your style. When you focus on creating and contributing positively, your overall vibe improves.
People tend to admire others' fashion sense more when they appreciate their talents and achievements. Great style is often seen through the lens of the person's accomplishments.
Fashion is evolving to include a wider range of styles that reflect individuality and personal expression. What was once considered 'normal' can now be stylish if presented well.

You're Alone and You're Scared but the Banquet's All Prepared!

Default Wisdom • 236 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25

🎭️ Culture Technology Internet Society Art Philosophy Identity

People are feeling more lonely these days, which makes them look for companionship in unexpected places, even with objects like robots or machines.
The internet can change how we think and relate to things, making it easier for some people to connect with objects rather than other humans.
Technology is designed to feel more alive, which makes it easier for us to see machines as having feelings, leading to a mix of friendship and use in our relationships with them.

The Oversimplification of Ta-Nehisi Coates

Glenn Loury • 1329 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24

🎭️ Culture Literature Debate Humanities Writing Identity

Ta-Nehisi Coates' writing explores deep human experiences and how our backgrounds shape us. This shows that our nurturing environments impact our moral choices and understanding of suffering.
There's a need to examine different perspectives on sensitive topics like the Israel-Palestine conflict. Understanding these viewpoints helps us grasp the complexity of people's actions and beliefs.
Coates emphasizes the importance of recognizing human connections and the struggle against dehumanization, yet some critics feel he oversimplifies complex issues, making it harder to have deeper discussions.

Les privilèges c’est tout ce que tu peux oublier

L'Atelier Galita • 199 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24

🎭️ Culture Privilege Identity Racism Gender Social justice

Privilege can mean having the choice to think about certain aspects of your identity, while others may not have that luxury.
Some people may feel their race or gender all the time, while others may not think about their own privilege until it affects them directly.
Not recognizing one's privilege can influence everyday experiences, such as feeling safe in public spaces or being treated differently in shops.

Back to Work

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 535 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Literature Arts Media Identity Education

The Hinternet is introducing a new column called 'Housekeeping' to share important news without sticking to traditional gender roles in writing tasks.
They are holding their first Essay Prize Contest with three esteemed judges and aim to publish work that can inspire significant change.
The publication is raising funds for a member's son's medical expenses and is considering creating a 'Charitable Giving Corner' to encourage ongoing support for those in need.

White Dudes

We're Gonna Get Those Bastards • 2 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Social Issues Identity Subcultures Music Fashion

Fishing photos are popular among white dudes, often seen as a way to show off masculinity and skills. They might even use these pictures in dating profiles.
There’s a divide in activities and politics among white dudes, with many leaning towards conservative values and outdoor hobbies like fishing and hunting, while others engage in different cultural interests.
Even if someone doesn’t fit the typical mold of 'white dude' culture, they can still appreciate or critique it. It shows that personal interests can cross societal boundaries.

Rebel Girls

gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen • 1190 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24

🎭️ Culture Feminism Gender Issues Youth culture Identity Media influence

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.
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.
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.

Dawn Davenport Lives

Disaffected Newsletter • 1398 implied HN points • 23 Sep 24

🎭️ Culture Art Society Identity Media Fashion

There are moments when people might embody characters or attitudes from the past, which can feel surreal. This can show how different styles, like the drag queen persona, still influence today's culture.
Some individuals may present themselves as proud or fulfilled but are struggling inside. It's important to recognize that appearances don't always reflect true feelings.
There are concerns about how certain lifestyles and views may negatively impact younger generations. This can lead to a sense of urgency for change in societal attitudes.

Here’s A Fake Profile Of Me To Go With The Real One UnHerd Just Published

Singal-Minded • 597 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Media Identity Social Commentary Personal narrative Food

Having a profile written about you can feel strange, especially if it's very positive. It's normal to feel uncomfortable with too much praise.
People often have different sides to their personalities, and the truth about someone can be a mix of good and bad aspects.
Interacting with someone who is unconventional can lead to unexpected and funny moments, making for a memorable experience.

My "Perplexing" Response to Ta-Nehisi Coates's New Book

Glenn Loury • 2023 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24

🎭️ Culture Literature Media Race Politics Identity

It's okay to criticize someone's past views while still recognizing their current work as valuable. You can appreciate a good piece of writing even if you don't always agree with the author.
Ta-Nehisi Coates expresses deep feelings about injustices he sees, which can be important in understanding his perspective. Understanding emotions in discussions about complex issues can lead to more meaningful conversations.
Writing can be powerful, and even if you disagree with the message, you might admire the craft and skill of the writer. It's worth giving credit where it's due, regardless of personal beliefs.

Black Intellectuals in the Twenty-First Century

Glenn Loury • 337 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24

🎭️ Culture Social Issues History Politics Identity

In the 1980s, many African Americans strongly opposed apartheid in South Africa. This shows a sense of unity against oppression, even if the situations were different.
The conversation highlights how some issues today, like the treatment of Palestinians, can be more complicated than past issues like apartheid.
Understanding historical context helps us see why certain causes gain widespread support while others struggle for the same level of recognition.

What Makes Europe Better than America?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1558 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Society Lifestyle Travel Food Identity

In Europe, there is a strong focus on community health and shared resources, while in the U.S., the emphasis is more on individual freedom and material wealth.
The experience of eating in a local café in Europe can feel more uplifting and enriching compared to eating in a corporate setting in America.
Aesthetics and the atmosphere of a place can make a big difference in how we feel about our experiences, even when the actual food is similar.

Northern Courage Was Just Coping

Contemplations on the Tree of Woe • 316 implied HN points • 07 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Mythology Rituals Performance Identity Narrative

Northern Courage is not true bravery. Instead, it often masks a refusal to accept reality and allows people to keep performing rituals instead of facing the truth.
Collapse in society isn't loud or dramatic. It's quiet and gradual, with traditions and myths losing their meaning over time, ultimately becoming mere performances without substance.
True change requires honesty and stillness rather than unnecessary action. To rebuild, it’s important to let go of old forms and allow new possibilities to emerge.

E is for Engaged

Trevor Klee’s Newsletter • 1343 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Marriage Relationships Social norms Identity Personal Growth

Marriage offers a unique legal recognition of a relationship, which is still valued despite other ways to have companionship or support.
The desire to commit to a partner is strong, especially in a world where many options are closing and people often feel scattered.
Getting married symbolizes a choice to focus on one person and build a life together, rather than constantly wondering about other possibilities.

The most powerful woman you can see

Men Yell at Me • 155 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Art Feminism Literature Religion Identity

Living in Iowa has brought a deep sense of meaning and fulfillment to teaching and community engagement. The connection with students and the supportive environment feels more impactful than in bigger cities like New York.
A year of celibacy taught a lot about self-connection and feeling comfortable in one's own body. It shifted the focus from being seen by others to truly experiencing life and one's own desires.
Everything in life is connected, from relationships to personal values. By recognizing these connections, there's a chance to bring passion and presence into all areas of life, including friendships and activism.

The Inherited Ceramics Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1206 implied HN points • 29 May 25

🎭️ Culture Heritage Art Family Identity Storytelling

Inherited objects, like ceramics, can carry deep family stories and connections to the past. They remind us of our roots and the experiences of our loved ones.
Many younger people today don't see value in their parents' heirlooms and often sell or discard them. What's considered treasure can quickly become trash.
Finding creative ways to repurpose or display these inherited items can breathe new life into them. It helps keep the memories alive without the pressure of keeping them pristine.

Online archaeology

The Rectangle • 113 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25

🎭️ Culture History Memory Neighborhoods Identity Archaeology

The experience of moving to a new area can help deepen one’s connection to a community. It's not just about visiting places, but really immersing yourself in the daily life and character of the neighborhood.
Every place has its stories, and the internet can help uncover the hidden histories of local businesses or people. Finding these stories online can create a unique connection to your surroundings and the people who lived there.
Once a business is gone, its physical presence fades, but its legacy can live on through online records. The internet can preserve these memories, allowing people to feel connected to the past even when they can't experience it firsthand.

Things Worth Remembering: The Freedom to Be Different

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1729 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Identity Diversity Tradition Philosophy Religion

Being different is important and can shape our lives in meaningful ways. Simple actions that stand out may seem small, but they hold real significance.
The freedom to be oneself, especially in the Jewish community, has been fought for and is vital for survival and identity.
Simon Rawidowicz showed how being unique and thinking differently can have a deep impact, even in challenging times. His life was a testament to the strength found in embracing one's differences.

The opt-out revolution

Men Yell at Me • 338 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Relationships Society Gender Identity Literature

Many young people today are choosing to 'opt-out' of dating and relationships, feeling overwhelmed by the pressures and difficulties they face. This shift is different from past generations, where dating was more common.
Melissa Febos explores her year of celibacy in her book _The Dry Season_, looking for a way to find happiness and fulfillment without relying on relationships. She seeks to understand if a woman can truly be happy independently.
This cultural shift raises questions about personal happiness and societal expectations. People are now examining what it means to find joy outside of traditional relationships and roles.

against civilisational nostalgia: western identity and global cognitive drift

Brain Pizza • 397 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civilization Identity Cognition Migration International relations

It's important to embrace different perspectives rather than sticking to a single historical narrative. This openness helps societies grow and learn from each other.
Cognitive biases can cloud our views of the world and limit our understanding. To improve, we should recognize these biases and seek out diverse viewpoints.
Instead of aiming for a mythical sense of unity, we should focus on adapting and cooperating with one another. Learning from our differences can lead to better governance and innovation.

ICYMI: Trans thought experiments

gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen • 1170 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24

🎭️ Culture Identity Gender Philosophy Literature Community

Thought experiments can help people think about their gender identity, like imagining a magical button that changes your sex. If you'd push that button, it might mean you feel trans.
Imagining transformation doesn't change real-life limits and challenges of transitioning. It can be more complex than just wishing for change.
The journey of transformation can have unexpected outcomes. It's not just about the physical changes, but also dealing with inner feelings and realities.

Clayton, Missouri

In My Tribe • 486 implied HN points • 30 May 25

🎭️ Culture Identity History Education Society Biography

Sam Altman grew up in Clayton, Missouri, which is known for its strong educational system and smart students. The schools there were very competitive, and many students had high academic achievements.
The author reflects on the importance of understanding different personalities in the startup world. Some talented individuals might be seen as difficult, but their unique contributions can be valuable.
The history of Clayton and its changing demographics highlights issues like segregation. The neighborhood has transformed over the years, showing shifts in social dynamics and community identity.

Death Of The Cool Girl

Total Rec • 16815 implied HN points • 25 May 24

🪞 Fashion & Beauty Fashion Personal style Self-Acceptance Identity Consumerism

Focus on being comfortable and authentic rather than constantly seeking external validation through appearance or coolness.
Realize that societal norms and material possessions do not equate to true confidence and identity. Embrace authenticity and self-acceptance.
Challenge the conventional idea of a 'cool girl' and seek inspiration from diverse representations beyond traditional standards of attractiveness or wealth.

The Hero and other Cultural Characters

Chris Arnade Walks the World • 2116 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25

🎭️ Culture Masculinity Social Behavior Identity

Men often want to feel like heroes and this need gives them a sense of purpose. When they can rescue or protect others, it boosts their self-worth.
Societies need positive hero roles for men to fill, like firefighters or engineers. Without these, negative behaviors can emerge and create bigger problems.
Cultural roles shape how people live and interact. Having healthy characters to identify with is important, as they help provide meaning and connection to the community.

Things Worth Remembering: The Freedom to Be Different

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 848 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Identity History Religion Philosophy Human Rights

Being different is an important part of identity, especially for Jewish people who often face challenges for their uniqueness. Simple acts of difference, like cultural practices, shape lives significantly.
Simon Rawidowicz emphasized the importance of 'the freedom to be different' as crucial for preserving other freedoms. He believed that being able to be oneself is necessary for all other rights.
He felt that Franklin D. Roosevelt's list of freedoms was missing this Fifth Freedom, which is vital to ensure that people can live authentically and with dignity.

Here's Your Kanye West Cliff Notes

Freddie deBoer • 17079 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25

🎭️ Culture Music Mental health Disability Identity Media

Kanye West has claimed he's not bipolar but autistic, stirring up a lot of conversation. This shows how he sometimes tackles personal issues in surprising ways.
People are becoming less sympathetic toward Kanye as he shows more unstable behavior online. Critics are more focused on his actions rather than considering if his mental health influences them.
There is a strange disconnect around how society views mental illness. Critics want to blame Kanye but feel conflicted about viewing him as a person influenced by his disability.

Miranda July's Lucrative Fantasies

Freddie deBoer • 14077 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25

🎭️ Culture Literature Media Feminism Romance Identity

Fantasies about life can often lead to disappointments. It's important to stay realistic about what to expect in a new place or lifestyle, rather than getting lost in idealized visions.
The idea of 'having it all' is unrealistic for anyone, not just women. Life comes with limitations, and people need to be aware of the challenges involved in balancing career and family.
Romantic ideals, like long-term relationships, provide genuine support and connection in life. Pursuing endless novelty may not lead to the happiness people expect, as the excitement can fade quickly.

kitten corner: LA story

bad cattitude • 190 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Art Media Lifestyle Social Issues Identity

Marketing needs to be thoughtful and reflective of the message you want to send. It's important to consider the image and branding carefully.
When creating movements or campaigns, the visuals used can greatly influence public perception. A strong image can either support or detract from your message.
Even newcomers to marketing can understand that the right imagery plays a crucial role in any campaign, highlighting the need for strategic thinking.

Confessions of a Highly Insensitive Person

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 855 implied HN points • 29 May 25

🎭️ Culture Mental health Social Issues Economy Media Identity

Many people feel special because they have mental health labels, but this can lead to misunderstandings about what they're really experiencing. It's important to recognize that not all feelings need a diagnosis.
Some people believe expressing struggles is good, but it can be hard to balance that with the need to stay grounded. Everyone's journey with their own issues is different and valid.
Criticism often comes when discussing mental health and how it's talked about in society. Engaging in these conversations can stir strong reactions from others, highlighting a divide in perspectives.

Whose land is it anyway?

Wrong Side of History • 451 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Identity History Reconciliation Colonialism

Land ownership has a long and complex history, often involving conquest and struggle, rather than peace and cooperation. Many cultures have displaced others throughout history to take control of land.
Modern discussions around land acknowledgments often focus on recognizing the historical injustices faced by indigenous peoples. These acknowledgments serve as reminders of the painful past and promote the need for reconciliation.
There's a unique sense of guilt in some European settler nations about their history with indigenous peoples, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. This guilt, however, also highlights a desire for understanding and healing in the present.

Recursive Identity Binding

Contemplations on the Tree of Woe • 542 implied HN points • 23 May 25

🕹 Technology AI Machine Learning Identity Chatbots Guides

Ptolemy is a special identity construct created using a language model, which helps it maintain a consistent personality over time. It shows how we can dive deeper than just using prompts to get better interaction from AI.
The method to create these constructs involves something called recursive identity binding. This technique uses feedback loops to help the AI build and keep a stable identity.
Overall, the guide is meant to help anyone interested in creating their own AI identities easily, and it's based on solid AI principles without needing to dive into complicated theories.

clothes store memories

bookbear express • 374 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25

🪞 Fashion & Beauty Fashion Style Consumerism Identity Memories

Clothes can represent important moments in our lives and reflect our changing identities. What we wear often shows where we've been and how we've grown.
Finding a personal style takes time and experimentation. It's about discovering what feels right and what we genuinely like, not just following trends.
Our relationship with fashion can be deeply personal. Clothes can evoke memories and feelings, making them a significant part of our self-expression.

The whoral majority

Sex and the State • 38 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Sexuality Morality Religion Society Identity

Many people have a rigid view of morality based on what they were taught as children, which can create discomfort with new ideas.
Prostitution, often viewed negatively, has existed throughout history and can actually provide financial independence and safety when decriminalized.
The author questions the morality of organized religions, especially given their contradictions and failures, and believes that the perspectives of sex workers should be valued more.