The hottest Identity politics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

Identity Politics Come From the Center, Not the Left.

JoeWrote • 252 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Democratic Party Identity politics Election Strategies Policy Analysis
  1. Identity politics often focuses on symbols rather than real change. It's when politicians talk a lot about supporting a group but don't actually put policies in place to help them.
  2. Centrist politicians sometimes use identity politics to appear progressive while avoiding meaningful actions. They try to win votes by using friendly language without making real changes.
  3. Instead of blaming the left for identity politics, many centrist Democrats use it as a strategy to beat more progressive candidates. They need to focus on real issues that matter to people instead of just symbolic gestures.

The Death of Twitter and Generalized Identity

The Discourse Lounge • 797 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social media Political Discourse Identity politics Cultural Shifts Voter trends
  1. Twitter is losing its importance and is now filled with misleading content and bots. Many users have moved to other platforms that promote better quality discussions.
  2. While Twitter helped popularize many leftist ideas, it also made some views seem more common than they actually were among broader communities. Not all ideas on Twitter reflect the majority opinion.
  3. The way media and politicians used Twitter as a guide for understanding diverse communities can be misleading. Terms like BIPOC gained traction on Twitter but don’t always resonate with how people identify in real life.

Anti-white bigotry is real and a clear and present danger

Disaffected Newsletter • 1838 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Race Issues Social justice Identity politics Political Discourse Civil Rights
  1. Anti-white bigotry exists and needs to be recognized. It's important to acknowledge that not everyone experiences the same treatment based on their race.
  2. Many white people feel a sense of fear or shame about discussing their experiences. This reluctance could lead to negative consequences if not addressed.
  3. There's a call to action for white individuals to express their concerns and experiences more openly. It’s vital for everyone to feel safe and heard, regardless of their background.

What Was A Millennial?

Castalia • 539 implied HN points • 10 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Identity politics Social Trends Cultural criticism Gender Studies
  1. Millennials challenged traditional ideas of adulthood, believing that fulfillment doesn't require following old initiation rites like military service or parenthood. They made this idea more mainstream, especially through the concept of metrosexuality.
  2. As millennials focused on self-care and personal fulfillment, they experienced challenges in workplaces that valued traditional hierarchies. This shift also led to lower birth rates, as many sought meaning outside of family structures.
  3. The rise of androgyny and gender fluidity was prominent in both millennials and Gen Z, suggesting a future with fewer gender boundaries. However, older generations often felt this led to a loss of clear roles and responsibilities.
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Civil War in Sudan

An Africanist Perspective • 1009 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Civil War Conflict resolution Economic Development Identity politics
  1. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are gaining momentum in Sudan's civil war, indicating a shift in power from the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). This may lead to increased violence and further fragmentation within the country.
  2. Sudan's long history of identity politics and development policies centered around the riverain core have contributed to the current civil war. The failure to incorporate marginalized groups has led to years of instability and conflict.
  3. The internationalization of the conflict in Sudan involves foreign actors supporting different factions, which complicates efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution. A negotiated settlement that involves power-sharing between military factions and civilian leadership could be the best way forward.

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

A B’Old Woman • 859 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Gender Issues Social justice Feminism Activism Identity politics
  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.

Feminists: tell me what you believe?

Disaffected Newsletter • 1278 implied HN points • 01 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism Gender Studies Identity politics Social movements Cultural critique
  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.

"It's just so very, very small"

Letters from Fiddler's Greene • 982 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Progressivism Identity politics Policy Analysis
  1. The article discusses the dismissal of concerns about transgender issues by emphasizing the insignificance of certain anatomical aspects.
  2. There is a critique of progressive attitudes that avoid addressing serious issues by downplaying their significance.
  3. The text highlights the importance of taking responsibility for one's beliefs and decisions, even if they may seem small or insignificant at first glance.

Fracturing Identity at the Altar of Transhumanism

DARK FUTURA • 1434 implied HN points • 07 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Identity politics AI Revolution Media influence Social Engineering
  1. Key events in 2008, like the financial crash and Obama's election, led to societal shifts.
  2. Identity politics, especially around race and gender, were manipulated by elites to distract from financial industry malfeasance.
  3. The push for transhumanism is a top-down agenda to erode traditional human concepts and control society through AI.

Best of "Can We Still Govern?" in 2024: Readers Picks

Can We Still Govern? • 63 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy Elections Political Analysis Identity politics Government Structure
  1. The 2024 presidential election brought a lot of focus on identity politics and its impact on candidates' success.
  2. There are growing concerns about the potential risks of political changes affecting government stability and operations.
  3. Cuts to government programs are often oversimplified and can harm valuable services that people rely on.

I Am A True Progressive

Society & Standpoint • 1375 implied HN points • 25 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Identity politics Progressivism Free speech Civil Rights Social justice
  1. Gender roles have evolved over time due to movements like feminism, allowing for more freedom of expression.
  2. Critical race theory reduces individuals to stereotypes based on race, contradicting the idea of individuality.
  3. Today's progressives seem to be moving away from valuing principles like due process and free speech.

Josh and Leslie Elliott on "The Radical Center"

Disaffected Newsletter • 699 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Social Issues Censorship Identity politics
  1. Leslie Elliott was training to be a psychotherapist but got cancelled for her views on therapy that didn't align with woke beliefs.
  2. The discussion will be about the concept of the 'Radical Center', which suggests finding common ground amidst extreme viewpoints.
  3. People interested in the topic can watch the premiere online at the specified time to learn more about these ideas.

Don't play 'Tower of Babel'

Disaffected Newsletter • 1518 implied HN points • 11 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Cultural critique Linguistics Progressivism Identity politics
  1. Many people who have changed their political views still deal with old emotional triggers. These triggers affect how they think and react to various situations.
  2. Using the same terms and language from old beliefs can undermine one's current views. It's important to recognize that language carries meaning and implications.
  3. Some new terms, like 'the unhoused' or 'sex work,' might seem harmless but can actually reinforce old beliefs and ideas. It's worth questioning the language we choose to use.

Curator

Castalia • 379 implied HN points • 30 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Gender Issues Sexuality Psychedelics Social Dynamics Identity politics
  1. There's a big debate about trans issues and choices, especially about children and medical decisions like puberty blockers. Some people stress the importance of granting freedoms, while others worry about the consequences of those choices on young lives.
  2. The idea of polyamory suggests that relationships can be built on open communication and shared experiences instead of traditional monogamous norms. While some people admire this approach, others see it as complicated and challenging to manage.
  3. Psychedelics have become popular for their potential benefits, but there's a growing concern about unrealistic expectations and their safe use. People are starting to question whether these substances can really bring about lasting change in society.

Numb in India, part 4: Dharma police

Numb at the Lodge • 538 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Social Dynamics Identity politics Religious Beliefs Human behavior
  1. The caste system in India is more complex than many people realize. It's not just about the four main groups but involves thousands of smaller castes that influence people's lives and jobs.
  2. Many Westerners misunderstand the caste system, thinking it's a rigid hierarchy. In reality, it's more like a flexible system influenced by individual roles and functions within society.
  3. Purity plays a big role in relationships between castes. People avoid contact with lower castes to maintain their own purity, which results in complex social rules and rituals.

Postmodernism and the Failure of Moral Triage

Peter Boghossian • 1061 implied HN points • 28 Apr 23
📖 Philosophy Postmodernism Critical Theory Identity politics Social justice Education
  1. The problem with peer review in academia is highlighted by the replication crisis in fields like psychology and biological sciences.
  2. Rejecting the ideas of science can lead to dangerous notions like limiting access to truth based on immutable characteristics.
  3. The shift towards woke ideology in education and social psychology has contributed significantly to the propagation of postmodernist ideas.

Sorry, it's not just difference, it is danger

Men Yell at Me • 340 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political divide Legislation Social Issues Women's Rights Identity politics
  1. Political differences can lead to real dangers, not just simple disagreements. It's important to recognize the serious implications these differences can have on people's lives.
  2. Women often face the greatest danger at home, where they are most likely to be attacked or assaulted. Laws that restrict women's rights only add to this danger.
  3. Telling marginalized groups that their lives and rights are less important is harmful. It is crucial to acknowledge and fight against these dangers rather than downplay them.

First draft of a maxim

Disaffected Newsletter • 939 implied HN points • 20 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Identity politics Cultural critique Philosophy Public Discourse
  1. It's important to clarify definitions before discussing disagreements. Often, people think they're disagreeing when they are just using different meanings for the same words.
  2. The author challenges the common views on 'isms' like homophobia and racism. They argue that not all criticisms labeled as these are actually rooted in hate or irrational fear.
  3. Many claims of 'ism' are seen as tools to silence opposing viewpoints, rather than genuine expressions of prejudice. The author believes these claims are often untrue or exaggerated.

A Crusading Clerisy

Not On Your Team, But Always Fair • 963 implied HN points • 13 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Religion Bureaucracy Academia Identity politics Law
  1. Marxism is not a religion, but post-Enlightenment progressivism ('Wokery') can be considered as one.
  2. The growth of the human-and-cultural capital class, along with technological evolution, has led to a shift towards jobs less grounded in physical reality, especially in entertainment, media, and education.
  3. Post-Enlightenment Progressivism (

NPR hasn't gotten more liberal. It's become more capital-D Democratic

White Hot Harlots • 239 implied HN points • 22 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Bias Partisanship Identity politics Liberalism
  1. NPR has shifted towards being more aligned with the Democratic party rather than being more traditionally liberal in its coverage.
  2. Commercial networks may avoid certain topics due to financial interests, whereas NPR's funding model allows it to cover a wider range of issues without worrying about ratings.
  3. The dynamics and messaging within the Democratic party have changed, leading to NPR reflecting this shift by emphasizing identity issues and being less critical of establishment Democrats.

the democratic joe rogan

bad cattitude • 357 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Election Analysis Media influence Public Opinion Identity politics
  1. The left is struggling with a lack of humor, thought diversity, and genuine connection, making it hard to attract new supporters. It often resorts to strict ideological tests that push people away.
  2. Many former left-leaning individuals feel alienated as the party has become more extreme, pushing them to seek alternatives. This shift has created frustration and led to a sense of disconnection with the mainstream.
  3. There is a desire for authenticity and genuine conversation in politics. People are tired of fake interactions and want leaders who can ask tough questions and speak honestly, rather than sticking to scripted, safe narratives.

a Based and Brave reply to Chris Rufo

Karlstack • 390 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Identity politics Foreign Relations Political Discourse Censorship
  1. Some people believe there's a serious issue in American politics, especially regarding foreign influence and how it conflicts with the country's interests.
  2. There's a conversation about how identity politics can shape responses to conflicts, but this can ignore the real suffering of people on the ground.
  3. Criticism of certain narratives can lead to consequences for individuals, showing a tension between free speech and the protection of specific communities.

leaving in a huff

bad cattitude • 327 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Social media Media Criticism Identity politics Public Opinion
  1. Some people are leaving social media platforms because they can't handle disagreements about their ideas. Instead of debating, they prefer to retreat to spaces where only their views are accepted.
  2. When someone sees their beliefs challenged, it can feel like a personal attack. This can lead to a strong reaction, making them defensive and unwilling to explore other viewpoints.
  3. The focus on consensus can lead to a false sense of security. People may feel more comfortable in like-minded groups, but this limits healthy discussions and the chance to grow through different opinions.

cultural invasion with gain of function virus

bad cattitude • 170 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Digital Culture Cultural Influences Social media Globalization Identity politics
  1. There's a concern that a gain of function virus could spread to populations without immunity, causing chaos, similar to how some American cultural elements might disrupt other countries.
  2. American online influencers could significantly impact cultures where such media is new, possibly leading to a rapid change in youth behavior and social norms.
  3. The rise of social media influencers may act as a powerful cultural tool, comparable to past political movements, and may influence societal structures in unexpected ways.

This is Cluster B on Substack

Disaffected Newsletter • 1578 implied HN points • 20 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Activism Identity politics Cultural critique
  1. Some people use their past trauma to gain sympathy and make accusations against others. This can sometimes be manipulative, as they may not show the whole story.
  2. There's a group of people who want strict moderation of online speech, but platforms like Substack don’t follow those same rules as Twitter does.
  3. When some individuals who are used to getting their way face pushback for the first time, it can be surprising and almost entertaining for others to witness.

LGB vs TQIAXYZ+

bad cattitude • 296 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Identity politics Social Issues Political Debate Cultural Commentary
  1. Many people feel that the conversation around gender identity has become overly political, impacting how it is discussed in schools and public spaces. They believe that not everyone agrees with this approach and see it as a forced ideology.
  2. There is a concern that the push for acceptance has alienated some within the LGBTQ community, particularly those who identify as LGB, and that they feel their voices are being overshadowed by discussions of gender identity.
  3. The emphasis should be on character and personal choices rather than identity alone, and there is a call for individuals to focus on living happy lives without being tied down by labels.

Nazi Elves and Cockney Orcs: The Rings of Power, Class and Royalty

The Bigger Picture • 1817 implied HN points • 21 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Class Identity politics Economic Inequality Power Dynamics
  1. We're continuously wrestling with growing wealth inequality in the current era, visible through discussions around society's power dynamics.
  2. Class plays a fundamental role in the cultural polarization, often overshadowed by conversations on identity politics.
  3. Our societal unrest stems from economic realities influencing power dynamics, creating a divide between different classes and leading to cultural tensions.

The "womanface" farce

Disaffected Newsletter • 1159 implied HN points • 12 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism Transgender Issues Media Critique Identity politics Social Commentary
  1. Feminists view 'womanface' as a serious issue, but it's argued that it's more about personal feelings and competition than real oppression. Many think that these makeup standards are imposed by women on each other rather than defining womanhood itself.
  2. The comparison of 'womanface' to 'blackface' is questioned. It's suggested that 'blackface' impacts have diminished over the years, and that true racism involves more serious repercussions.
  3. Underlying motivations for complaints about these issues may stem from a shallow sense of competition and personal victimhood rather than genuine concerns about injustice.

Palestinianism as Moral Cargo Cult Part 1

Autodidact Obsessions • 4 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Nationalism Identity politics Conflict Ideology History
  1. Palestinianism is portrayed as a movement for liberation and rights, but it is argued to be more about rejecting Jewish sovereignty rather than a true ethnic identity.
  2. Historically, the idea of a distinct Palestinian identity grew much later than Jewish claims to the land, often being defined by opposition to Zionism.
  3. The rhetoric around Palestinianism often inverts moral responsibility, where acts of aggression are presented as victimhood, complicating dialogue and accountability.

Things that won't work on me

Disaffected Newsletter • 1119 implied HN points • 04 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism Gender Issues Social Commentary Political Discourse Identity politics
  1. False claims made by some feminists about harassment are seen as untrustworthy and deceitful.
  2. There is frustration with demands for detailed explanations about how to address cultural issues, feeling that it's a waste of time.
  3. Suggestions to tone down anger or criticism are rejected, as the focus is on holding others accountable rather than trying to convince them.

Links to Consider, 11/12/2024

In My Tribe • 212 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship Identity politics Media influence Public Policy Legal system
  1. Censorship can be split into two types: hard censorship, which is the removal of content, and soft censorship, which reduces exposure to certain content. Soft censorship is seen as serious because it limits the perspectives people can access.
  2. Identity politics has grown from media focusing on group identities instead of ideas. This shift affects how people engage with each other, often prioritizing identity over actions.
  3. There is a lot of unnecessary laws because people believe every problem needs a legislative solution. Emphasizing common law could potentially be a better approach to managing legal issues.

Babe wake up we’re sharing our fears

Both Are True • 232 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Opinion Identity politics
  1. Sharing our fears can create a sense of connection and community. It's important to talk about what we're scared of with others instead of keeping it all inside.
  2. Many people, regardless of their background or beliefs, have deep fears about the future. Recognizing that we all share fears can help us understand each other better.
  3. Feeling scared in a society can affect everyone, and it's crucial to remember that our votes are about creating a more stable and less fearful environment for everyone.

Culture Wars Are not For Sissies

Disaffected Newsletter • 1159 implied HN points • 07 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Culture Wars Media influence Legislation Identity politics Public Discourse
  1. There is a belief that we are in a serious cultural conflict, not just a disagreement, and the left seems to control most of the media, spreading misinformation.
  2. Laws are being proposed that some believe would allow harmful medical treatments for children, sparking heated debate about child safety and rights.
  3. Some people think that a softer approach to these issues isn't working anymore, and there is a call for more direct and strong action to address the perceived dangers.

Hyperactive Righteousness Syndrome: A Cross-Ideological Affliction

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 32 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice Identity politics Political Ideologies
  1. Both the right and the left can have a strong sense of righteousness, judging others based on their own strict moral standards.
  2. On the left, this can show up as demanding social justice and cultural correctness, where people are labeled as 'bad' for not meeting certain expectations.
  3. People often feel pressured to align with specific social issues or language rules, leading to a culture of policing others' beliefs and actions.

Analytical Marxism in the 1990s

Philosophy for the People w/Ben Burgis • 219 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
📖 Philosophy Marxism Identity politics
  1. Analytical Marxism in the 1990s is a topic that explores the book 'Reconstructing Marxism' by Wright, Levine & Sober from 1992.
  2. There is a need to think beyond the authors' perspective to move away from left identitarianism and reconstruct class politics.
  3. The discussion emphasizes the importance of delving deeper into the complexities of these concepts for a more nuanced understanding.