The hottest Identity Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Ode to the slattern

Disaffected Newsletter • 1758 implied HN points • 14 May 24
🎭️ Culture Identity Gender Literature Media Psychology
  1. The slattern is a unique character type in stories, often portrayed as messy and chaotic but intriguing. Many people are drawn to these flawed characters because they are relatable and fun to explore.
  2. Growing up with a complex relationship with one’s mother can shape how individuals view and mimic female figures in media. This dynamic can lead to a stronger connection with the 'bad women' archetype in pop culture.
  3. Emulating these characters can feel empowering, even if there is awareness of their flaws. Playing around with the slattern persona can be a playful way to explore one's childhood experiences and relationships.

Gen X Man's conflicted call to greatness

Jeff Giesea • 1417 implied HN points • 20 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Generations Identity Social Change Leadership Individualism
  1. Gen X men are often overlooked and feel comfortable being the quiet listeners in conversations. They have a unique ability to understand and connect different generations without needing the spotlight on themselves.
  2. Although Gen X men pride themselves on independence, there's an importance for them to step up and lead as older generations exit. Younger men look up to them for guidance, support, and structure in navigating modern challenges.
  3. Despite their strong individualism, Gen X men are builders who have shaped the world we live in today, and they need to recognize their value in helping the next generation without losing their own identity.

Our Language Is In A State Of Vast Humiliation

Public Universal Friend • 159 implied HN points • 31 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Language Literature Society Identity Art
  1. Starting a new life can involve setting strict routines. For example, having a specific schedule for getting up, reading, and working can help create structure.
  2. It's important to balance work with personal time. Taking breaks for physical activity or listening to music can refresh your mind and emotions.
  3. Accepting different perspectives on loneliness can lead to deeper thoughts. Finding meaning in solitude might change how you view your daily experiences.

The Patient

Sensible Medicine • 4088 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Personal Growth Identity Self-reflection
  1. Identifying as a patient can sometimes overshadow your whole identity, and it's crucial to remember you are more than just the patient label.
  2. Being seen as a 'Patient' by others can affect how they interact with you, sometimes diminishing your identity beyond your health status.
  3. Despite the challenges of being defined by your health struggles, it's possible to regain aspects of your identity and redefine yourself beyond the patient role.

Bobby, Nikki, Kamala, Vivek, and me

Slow Boring • 8117 implied HN points • 21 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Identity Race Representation Inclusion Belonging
  1. Growing up as an Indian American, dealing with stereotypes and insecurity about race was challenging.
  2. Having role models of similar racial backgrounds, like Barack Obama, can help in feeling a sense of belonging and understanding.
  3. Accepting and embracing one's cultural and racial identity, without trying to fit into a mold dictated by societal norms, can lead to self-acceptance and pave the way for future generations.
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The West Is Still Alive in Nevada

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2170 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Arts Traditions Identity Geography Lifestyle
  1. Nevada has a unique spirit that sets it apart from other Western states. It's a place where the old Wild West vibe still exists, especially in small towns.
  2. The state is known for its tough and desolate landscapes, which can test the limits of those who venture there. Many who seek fortune may find both success and hardship.
  3. Visiting places like Elko can be an adventure filled with unexpected experiences, from lively bars to the harsh realities of the desert life.

What DEI Isn’t

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1474 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Politics Race Culture Social Issues Identity
  1. DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) isn't just about hiring minorities for the sake of it. It's more about creating an inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives.
  2. The discussion around DEI often misses the point of what true inclusion means in practice. It's not only about having diverse faces in a workplace.
  3. Real inclusion involves actively engaging with and understanding different backgrounds, rather than superficially checking off boxes. It's about making everyone feel genuinely welcome.

On the responsibility of size

Trevor Klee’s Newsletter • 1641 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Society Identity Behavior Human Interaction Ethics
  1. People can have different perceptions of a person based on their size. For example, a large person might be considered intimidating, even if they are friendly.
  2. This awareness of how others view them can be a burden and a blessing for someone who is large. They may adjust their behavior to avoid scaring people.
  3. If someone who is usually small suddenly became large, they might act differently, feeling more confident in using their size. However, that could lead to negative consequences if they don't understand the responsibilities that come with it.

Imitation Game

Situation Normal • 80 implied HN points • 25 May 25
🎭️ Culture Identity Internet Scams Self-Expression
  1. Imitation might seem flattering, but it often shows mediocrity. It's important to create your own identity instead of just copying others.
  2. Online scams are becoming more common, especially with easy impersonation. Being vigilant about who you trust online can help avoid falling for these scams.
  3. The desire to be someone else can be tempting, but staying true to yourself is essential. Embracing your own identity leads to a more fulfilling life.

All Men Want to Be Heroes

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1316 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Society Identity Narratives Traditions Masculinity
  1. Men often seek opportunities to feel heroic and valued in society. It's important for communities to create situations where they can step up and make a difference.
  2. Experiences shared around communal spaces, like bars, highlight the desire for connection and action among men. These moments can lead to camaraderie and support among peers.
  3. Society's perception of masculinity can impact how men express their emotions and take action. Allowing them space to be heroes can lead to healthier relationships and communities.

🐬 Reality Is What You Make of It 🐬

Default Wisdom • 251 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Trends Society Identity Media Technology
  1. Cultural trends take time to develop and evolve. They don't just start and finish within a single year.
  2. There's a growing belief that our thoughts and imaginations can shape reality. Many people are exploring ideas like manifestation and online connections in more spiritual ways.
  3. Political landscapes are changing, with a mix of niche ideologies emerging. People are labeling themselves more based on aesthetics rather than clear political beliefs.

The Roots That Held The Earth

Soaring Twenties • 100 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Identity Family Heritage Reflection Loss
  1. Loss can deeply affect our sense of identity and belonging. When we lose important people or places, we often feel lost and disconnected from ourselves.
  2. Finding true belonging is about giving part of ourselves to a place or people, not just seeking to possess. A genuine connection requires authenticity and commitment.
  3. In difficult times, seeking meaning can help us navigate our pain. When we try to understand our experiences, we can find a way to move forward instead of feeling hopeless.

Undead

ASK MOLLY • 6662 implied HN points • 05 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Gender Writing Expression Identity Opinion
  1. The author reflects on societal expectations and challenges faced by unfamous women writers
  2. Exploring the pressure to conform to traditional roles and the struggle to be authentic and outspoken
  3. Discussing the importance of speaking out and sharing experiences, despite societal expectations

Jen Gerson: The immigration consensus is collapsing

The Line • 3439 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Immigration Conservatives Nationalism Multiculturalism Identity
  1. The consensus on immigration in Canada is shifting due to economic stress, housing issues, and health-care system challenges.
  2. Polls show a significant portion of Canadians believe immigration levels are too high, leading to a cross-partisan consensus on the need for change.
  3. The conversation around immigration in Canada involves addressing the effects on national identity, culture, and the potential for generational economic inequality.

Racebending—What It Is and Why It Should End

Journal of Free Black Thought • 19 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Media Identity Arts Representation Diversity
  1. Racebending changes the original race or ethnicity of characters, and it's important to recognize that every ethnicity is valuable. We should respect these identities.
  2. It matters that we see ourselves in media. Changing a character's race often ignores the cultural significance of who they are and can hurt how stories are told.
  3. Instead of racebending, we should strive for real diversity by telling authentic stories that honor different cultures and giving everyone a chance to share their narratives.

Family was never the problem

Disaffected Newsletter • 3836 implied HN points • 28 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Family Identity Social Issues Mental health Parenting
  1. Not all families are the same, and many people come from backgrounds that are abusive and damaging. It's important to recognize that these experiences can shape how we view family.
  2. A loving and stable family is necessary for healthy child development. When children experience abuse, it not only affects them but also society as a whole.
  3. It's possible to change our views and support good family values, even if we had difficult pasts. Focusing on building positive family structures can lead to a better future.

Weekly Bric-a-Brac

Disaffected Newsletter • 979 implied HN points • 28 May 24
🎭️ Culture Media Society Entertainment Identity Consumerism
  1. People should be honest about their feelings, even if they don't always align. It's okay if someone doesn't agree with you; what matters is being real and understanding.
  2. Narcissism, rather than gender, is a key factor when judging hurtful behavior. Both men and women can act badly, and it's important to see that it's not just about being a man or a woman.
  3. Getting good value for your money is important. Nowadays, store brands often offer just as good quality as name brands, so it's smart to shop wisely.

An emotion I can't name

Disaffected Newsletter • 1518 implied HN points • 20 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Identity Emotion Family Memory Society
  1. Sometimes we have feelings that are hard to describe. They can be a mix of sadness, protectiveness, and understanding for others who might not have much.
  2. Beauty can come from simple things in life. Special items, even if not expensive, can carry deep emotional meaning from loved ones.
  3. It's important to recognize and appreciate the struggles of others. Making fun of their situations can hurt, and we should approach their joys with kindness.

Moving Beyond the Bumble Brag

Seven Senses • 699 implied HN points • 15 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Self-promotion Art Music Identity Personal Growth Creativity
  1. It's important to share your achievements and talents. Hiding them can stop others from benefiting from your skills.
  2. Self-promotion should be seen as a way of showing respect for yourself and your work. It’s not about being boastful.
  3. Being too modest doesn't help anyone. Everyone deserves to shine and be recognized for their hard work.

Their emotions are a carefully constructed facade

Internal exile • 42 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media Identity Technology Consumerism Surveillance
  1. People often create a facade of emotions to hide their true feelings. This can lead to a disconnect between how they present themselves and how they really are.
  2. Submitting images online can reveal a lot about personal information without one even realizing it. Companies use these images to draw conclusions about us that might not be accurate.
  3. Scrolling through social media can make people feel outraged or fearful, but it often prevents them from taking real action. This cycle of reaction without action can be discouraging and unproductive.

Why there's no "Joe Rogan of the left"

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 1140 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Entertainment Politics Society Identity
  1. There's no 'Joe Rogan of the left' because Rogan appeals to a non-political crowd. To engage more people, the left needs to communicate in spaces outside traditional politics.
  2. Rogan has created a strong connection with his audience by producing a lot of content. This helps him fight loneliness for listeners who feel like he is their friend.
  3. People are drawn to fun and relatable content. If the left wants to attract more followers, they need to focus on building positive relationships instead of criticizing others.

The Intimate World and the Remote World

In My Tribe • 789 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Social media Communication Relationships Identity Community
  1. We are connecting more with strangers online than with people we know in real life. This shift is causing us to lose touch with our close relationships and communities.
  2. Social media blurs the lines between public personalities and intimate friends. This can create anxiety and make us feel insecure about our own social lives.
  3. To feel happier and healthier, we need to focus more on rebuilding our real-life connections. Being connected to family and friends in person is essential for our well-being.

The Exquisite Irony of Claudine Gay's Downfall

Glenn Loury • 3630 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Identity Affirmative Action Race relations Higher education Leadership
  1. Defenders claim that ousting Claudine Gay was more about race and ideology than academic integrity, but it still doesn't excuse plagiarism.
  2. Being a university president may require more than being a noteworthy scholar; skills like administration and fundraising could take precedence.
  3. The debate on affirmative action and academic standards for black students is complex, with implications for diversity, standards, and systemic corruption.

A Requiem For Ba'athism (Part 3 of 3)

Fisted by Foucault • 60 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Nationalism Conflict Identity Ideology History
  1. Ba'athism, meant to unite Arabs, failed because tribal identities are stronger than national ones in many regions. People often identify more with their local tribes than a broader Arab identity.
  2. Religious differences present another challenge, as the intertwining of state and religion makes it hard for diverse groups to bond over a single national identity. This creates conflict among different confessions.
  3. The struggle for Ba'athist leadership between Syria and Iraq shows how internal divisions, personality clashes, and tribal loyalties made it difficult to create a unified movement in the Arab world.

Black Culture and the Euro-American Collective Brain

Journal of Free Black Thought • 53 implied HN points • 23 May 25
🎭️ Culture Integration Identity Racism Social Issues
  1. It's important for black culture to connect with the broader Euro-American culture. This connection can give people more opportunities and knowledge.
  2. Historical injustices have caused some to view the Euro-American culture as hostile, which can lead to self-imposed limitations on growth and progress.
  3. Embracing a mix of identities and knowledge can empower black Americans to overcome obstacles and achieve success in society.

My People. Are You out There?

antoniomelonio • 199 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Identity Mental health Community Literature Creativity
  1. Many people feel like outsiders and struggle to express their true selves. It's common to be drawn to others who also feel different.
  2. Life can feel boring and tiring, especially when trying to fit into societal norms. Finding joy and connection with interesting people is important.
  3. Reading fiction and engaging with meaningful topics can bring happiness. It's better to focus on what truly matters rather than on unimportant daily drama.

Against Branding (and Sarah Fay)

Castalia • 4895 implied HN points • 01 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Writing Branding Identity Expression Media
  1. Writing should be about exploration and self-discovery, not just about building a brand or following. Writers should feel free to express their thoughts without worrying about market trends.
  2. The idea of 'branding' can limit creativity and individual expression. People should resist pressure to conform to easy, recognizable formats in their writing.
  3. Substack was meant to be a platform for genuine writing, not just a marketplace for consumer-driven content. It's important to keep the spirit of originality and experimentation alive.

The virtue and private sorrow of Boomer Man

Jeff Giesea • 698 implied HN points • 01 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Social Commentary Identity Psychology Relationships
  1. Boomer Man is friendly and kind, often going out of his way to help others and engage in small talk. He represents a generation that values community and social connection.
  2. Despite his genial exterior, Boomer Man struggles with deeper feelings of sorrow and questions about his legacy. He grapples with issues of mortality and relevance in today's fast-changing world.
  3. Though some may see him as outdated, Boomer Man still plays an important role in society, offering wisdom and support to the younger generations. His experiences and contributions matter now more than ever.

Shin Guards

Public Universal Friend • 79 implied HN points • 02 Sep 24
🎭️ Culture Childhood Social Dynamics Violence Memory Identity
  1. The story showcases how childhood games can sometimes lead to unexpected violence. The characters are just kids but their actions escalate quickly.
  2. The main character grapples with their identity and feelings of powerlessness, especially when witnessing a friend getting hurt. It highlights the struggle of fitting in while facing personal conflicts.
  3. Friendship dynamics play a major role in the scene, showing how peer pressure can influence actions and decisions, making it hard to stand up against the group.

Don't watch sports

Becoming Noble • 4504 implied HN points • 07 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Sports Philosophy Identity Values History
  1. Sport has historically been a vital part of society, representing values, nobility, and community.
  2. Modern commercialized sports have shifted the focus from active participation to passive observation, leading to a loss of essential virtues and identity.
  3. Engaging in sports through active participation is essential for cultivating virtues, joy, honor, and a sense of community.

Culture Study Meets Bama RushTok

Culture Study • 9605 implied HN points • 20 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Social media Identity
  1. Rushtok videos on TikTok showcase the rush process for sororities at universities like Alabama, revealing a behind-the-scenes look at recruitment and Greek life.
  2. Greek life appeals to students seeking social structure and friendship, offering connections, community, and a pathway through college.
  3. Sorority recruitment still reflects historical exclusions based on race, class, and gender norms, influencing the images and performances seen on social media.

ROGD, AGP, Mothers, and Sons—Common Sense Thoughts by Not a Psychologist

Parents with Inconvenient Truths about Trans (PITT) • 2476 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Gender Parenting Psychology Identity Children
  1. Mothers should not label children as AGP without solid data to support it.
  2. Educating boys on challenges of adolescence can help them navigate gender dysphoria without medicalization.
  3. Resistance to rising ideologies about AGP in boys is important to protect vulnerable children.

I sent some texts on the good life

Soaring Twenties • 69 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Parenting Philosophy Community Identity
  1. Having good friends shapes our kids' lives in ways we might not see. It’s important to have a supportive community.
  2. We need to keep growing and changing as people. Life is about discovering who we are and evolving.
  3. It’s crucial to appreciate what we have right now. Instead of wishing for a perfect future, we should focus on enjoying the present.

I have a right to be here

Men Yell at Me • 949 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Identity Gender Fitness Social Issues Safety
  1. Running in public spaces can feel dangerous for women because of harassment and violence from men. This creates fear and anxiety about simply existing in those spaces.
  2. Women’s bodies in public are often sexualized and blamed for harassment, making it hard for them to feel safe. Society frequently tells them to stay inside or take precautions instead of addressing the root of the problem.
  3. Despite the threats, it's important for women to keep asserting their right to be in public spaces. Running and walking let them claim their freedom and say, 'I belong here.'

An Investigation into Species HS01

Contemplations on the Tree of Woe • 1108 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Society Identity Psychology Evolution Norms Politics
  1. Drones are being spotted in major U.S. cities, but there's a lot of confusion about their purpose. Some people think they could be military drones from other countries, while the government insists they are just civilian drones.
  2. A strange theory suggests that aliens are invading Earth, and they'll reveal themselves in 2025. This idea comes from a researcher studying our species, who claims aliens are worried about our civilization.
  3. The reproductive patterns of humans show a big divide. While some populations are rapidly growing, others are declining due to cultural and social changes that discourage having children.

The gay-ification of heterosexuality

Disaffected Newsletter • 1099 implied HN points • 15 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture LGBTQ+ Social Trends Sexuality Identity Hedonism
  1. There's a noticeable trend where aspects of gay culture are becoming more common in heterosexual relationships. This includes things like experimental and adventurous approaches to sex.
  2. People are starting to see what was once considered edgy or restricted to the LGBTQ+ community as normal behavior for everyone.
  3. This shift raises questions about how we define sexuality and what is considered acceptable in relationships today.