The hottest Logic Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Philosophy Topics

Sunday Strip: Paranoid lately?

Who is Robert Malone • 41 implied HN points • 28 Dec 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Sometimes what looks like paranoia is actually a rational response to real facts and information, so suspicion can be justified when evidence lines up.
  2. Those in power control narratives by steering questions and limiting criticism, so who you cannot criticize often indicates who is controlling you.
  3. Paranoia often springs from fear mixed with good sense, and you can either let it make you miserable or use it to make yourself stronger.

Resistance is necessary

Austin Kleon • 1878 implied HN points • 02 Aug 22
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Resistance helps us move forward. Without some friction, we can't really make progress in life.
  2. We often get distracted by easy paths. It's important to seek out challenges that guide us in the right direction.
  3. Creativity thrives on challenges. Facing resistance can spark new ideas and help us grow.

2.5 René Descartes

Fields & Energy • 259 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. René Descartes believed science is connected and trying to find one truth could help explain other truths. He thought this truth came from the 'infinite perfections of God.'
  2. He had some important ideas in physics, like how light bends and motion is conserved. However, some of his ideas turned out to be wrong, showing that science takes time to improve.
  3. Descartes thought that studying nature could help humans control it, but his methods sometimes lacked support from experiments. He lived a relaxed life, which changed when he had to teach in Sweden and sadly got pneumonia.

Two visions of ultrafinitism intricately intertwined

Infinitely More • 25 implied HN points • 29 Dec 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. There are two ultrafinitist views: one posits a largest natural number, and the other accepts successor, addition, and multiplication as total but not exponentiation.
  2. Model theory tightly connects them: truncations of bounded-induction models produce finite-arithmetic models, and every finite-arithmetic model can be seen as a truncation of some bounded-induction model.
  3. Each finite-arithmetic model has a unique smallest extension to a bounded-induction model that makes addition and multiplication fully determined, so the two approaches end up sharing the same semantic landscape.

Reflections on Ethical Vegetarianism, Part 2

Bet On It • 191 implied HN points • 23 Jul 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Many people find ethical vegetarian arguments hard to understand. This might be because philosophy can be tricky, and most people don't have great responses to common issues.
  2. Common sense really matters in philosophy. When people doubt basic ideas about the world, appealing to common sense can help clear up confusion.
  3. Eating meat and treating animals differently isn't seen as absurd to many people. It's okay to think this way, especially when there are bigger issues, like helping hungry humans.
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Bayes is not a phase

DYNOMIGHT INTERNET NEWSLETTER • 453 implied HN points • 27 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Bayesian reasoning is something we all use, even if we don't realize it. It's more about how we naturally think than some complex math.
  2. There are two types of uncertainty: aleatoric (random) and epistemic (based on knowledge). Mixing them helps us make better decisions.
  3. Arguing over which type of probability is 'real' is silly. It's better to recognize that life involves many messy decisions where formal reasoning can help, but is often complicated.

Ethics and Insecticide

Bet On It • 211 implied HN points • 07 Jul 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Insect suffering could challenge views about animal suffering. If we think insects feel pain, it might mean many everyday actions are wrong.
  2. Intelligence might affect how bad suffering is. The more intelligent a being is, the worse their suffering could be seen as.
  3. Concrete facts should guide ethical theories. It's better to start with real experiences and observations, not just abstract ideas.

Hidden Open Thread 353.5

Astral Codex Ten • 688 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. This is a thread for subscribers to discuss various topics openly. People can share their thoughts and insights freely.
  2. It is exclusive to those who have paid a subscription. This means that the discussions here are intended for a smaller, dedicated group.
  3. Engagement is encouraged, with comments and sharing options available. Subscribers can interact with each other in a more personal space.

Why the Good Guys Will Usually Win

Eurykosmotron • 353 implied HN points • 09 Jul 23
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Good guys are likely to win and open-mindedness prevails over closed-mindedness across the multiverse.
  2. Prosocial communities are smarter and better at problem-solving than communities of distrustful individuals.
  3. In a diverse and open environment, good and open-minded agents are more likely to prevail and positively influence society.

Ultrafinitism with a largest number

Infinitely More • 25 implied HN points • 19 Dec 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Ultrafinitism holds that only comparatively small or ‘feasible’ numbers exist, and finite arithmetic (FA) formalizes this by axiomatizing arithmetic with a single largest natural number.
  2. The full theory true in all finite truncation models is not computably axiomatizable, so FA is a distinct and simply stated theory rather than that inexpressible common truncation theory.
  3. Any model of FA can be interpreted inside a strictly taller FA-model where the former largest number attains much larger values (making previously undefined sums and products defined), revealing a potentialist hierarchy that, when iterated, yields models arising from truncations of bounded induction.

Hey, I plan to be back!

Inland Nobody • 320 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. The writer has been focusing on weight loss and has lost a total of 237 pounds. They feel more energized and are looking forward to new experiences.
  2. They plan to write more frequently, with less emphasis on perfectionism. This means sharing ideas that are in progress instead of perfectly polished posts.
  3. The writer is moving from Galesburg to Chicago and will share thoughts on urbanism and philosophy related to their new environment.

Against the Rowling Roll

De Pony Sum • 235 implied HN points • 02 Nov 23
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. The Rowling Roll associates two things to create a negative connotation
  2. It can distort our perception of related matters and induce unjust hatred
  3. It's a strategic tactic that's difficult to push back against without looking like you defend the negative aspect

Of Course You Can Prove a Negative

Philosophy for the People w/Ben Burgis • 279 implied HN points • 23 Apr 23
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Confident statements that you can't prove a negative are common online, but this idea isn't found in logic textbooks.
  2. There is a discussion happening about this essay on the This is Revolution podcast with Stefan Bertram-Lee, focusing on the essay from last week and this one.
  3. This specific post is for paid subscribers only.

The Liar Paradox (and Russell's Paradox) for Non-Logicians (UNLOCKED)

Philosophy for the People w/Ben Burgis • 399 implied HN points • 22 Jan 23
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. The Liar Paradox questions whether statements can be both true and false, challenging fundamental logical principles like Bivalence and the Law of the Excluded Middle.
  2. Russell's Paradox, on the other hand, questions the existence of sets based on self-referential properties, leading to contradictions like a set that contains itself and doesn't.
  3. The debates around these paradoxes highlight the importance of classical logic principles like the Law of Non-Contradiction and Disjunctive Syllogism in everyday reasoning and understanding the world.

The Importance Of Using Words Honestly

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 26 implied HN points • 04 Dec 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Words need stable, conventional meanings so people can communicate clearly; changing meanings without warning just creates confusion and wastes time.
  2. People and institutions sometimes redefine words deliberately to mislead or to make bad policies sound virtuous, using moral-sounding terms to win support.
  3. If you use a word in a new way, say so up front and be consistent; correcting a wrong common usage is fine, but it should be done clearly so discussion can move on.

Philosophy is the mathematics of language

Wood From Eden • 816 implied HN points • 23 Dec 23
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Philosophy is the art of clarifying concepts and finding links between them.
  2. Philosophy is similar to mathematics in that it explores relationships between concepts, just as mathematics explores relationships between numbers.
  3. Concepts in philosophy change over time, making it a field that evolves constantly unlike mathematics which is built on stable concepts.

The surreal line is topologically disconnected—or is it?

Infinitely More • 25 implied HN points • 15 Nov 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. The surreal line can be seen as disconnected based on one way of thinking about connectedness. It's like having gaps that separate parts of a line.
  2. On another hand, if we consider how sets and classes differ, the surreal line appears connected. This means when viewed differently, those gaps can seem to vanish.
  3. Understanding these ideas helps explain why the surreal numbers are unique and fascinating, showing how different perspectives can change our view of mathematics.

Comparing Theism and Naturalism

Bentham's Newsletter • 78 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. A detailed comparison was made between theism and naturalism with various odds ratios considered.
  2. The conclusion presented was that theism is significantly more plausible than naturalism, with a ratio of 468,000.
  3. The importance of evidence, arguments, and priors in determining the probability of theism was emphasized.

Finite Minds

Fake Noûs • 188 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Infinitism in beliefs means you could have an endless chain of reasons for thinking something is true. However, since our minds are limited, it's hard to have a true infinite number of reasons.
  2. Beliefs must be based on more than just potential ideas or past thoughts; they need to be actively supported by real experiences or evidence to count as justified.
  3. Even when considering complex ideas like math or colors, our ability to truly grasp or hold onto those beliefs is still bound by our finite understanding and memory.

Causal Why vs Teleological Why

Breaking Smart • 12 implied HN points • 07 Dec 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. English is not very good at explaining the reasons behind things. It struggles to express deeper meanings behind actions.
  2. Languages like German and Russian might be better for discussing complex philosophical ideas. They offer more clarity in the way they handle 'why' questions.
  3. Understanding different languages can help us see how they shape our thoughts and inquiries about the world around us.

Spiral Sudoku

A Piece of the Pi: mathematics explained • 60 implied HN points • 23 Jul 25
🚌 Education Logic
  1. Spiral Sudoku is a type of puzzle that involves filling a grid in a spiral pattern with numbers. The challenge is to ensure that every row and column has the numbers 1 to 5 without repetition.
  2. The grid is designed with specific circled positions that guide where the numbers should be placed. Understanding these positions is key to solving the puzzle successfully.
  3. This puzzle not only tests your problem-solving skills but also makes math fun and engaging. It's a great way to practice logic and critical thinking.

Nullius In Verba

Polymathic Being • 70 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Always question the sources of information you receive. Don't just accept what others say; do your own research to find the truth.
  2. Balancing your emotions with rational thinking is important. Sometimes, our feelings can cloud our judgment when evaluating facts.
  3. Stay curious and be willing to learn, unlearn, and relearn. Embrace the idea that understanding can change and improve over time.

Nothing #301

Daily Philosophy • 58 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Daily Philosophy has reached 300 articles and offers premium subscriptions for archive access.
  2. Articles from Daily Philosophy have been translated and published in Spanish and Korean.
  3. The story 'Nothing' by Lina Ignatova explores the concept of 'nothing' and its complexities.

Talk with Philosophy Bear

Philosophy bear • 50 implied HN points • 01 Aug 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. The project involves creating a custom AI that expresses the author's views after writing extensively on many topics. The AI can provide insightful responses even on unfamiliar subjects.
  2. There is a second AI bot designed to explain left-wing ideas to those curious about them. This bot can debate and offer reading suggestions to help users understand different perspectives.
  3. Another bot, called Bear Bear, offers relaxation and motivation. It's meant to inspire people to connect and appreciate life despite challenges.

The channel (a teaser)

Philosophy bear • 57 implied HN points • 14 Jul 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Having confidence and strength in your heart can attract positive attention from others, regardless of height.
  2. Your actions and personality can be more impressive than physical attributes, so focus on what makes you unique.
  3. Engaging with others and building connections can help you find the right partner, so don't forget to share and subscribe to ideas that inspire you.

Chess and the number e

A Piece of the Pi: mathematics explained • 163 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🔬 Science Logic
  1. The number e, around 2.718, plays a big role in math, especially in combinatorial problems like derangements. This is when items are arranged so that none are in their original position.
  2. In chess, setting up nonattacking rooks can be related to derangements. The chance that none of them land on the main diagonal equals about 36.8%, which links back to the number e.
  3. Recent studies have also looked at how many safe squares remain on a chessboard when placing random pieces. As more pieces are added, the proportion of safe squares follows certain patterns connected to e.

The Monty Hall problem: The golden goat variation

Simplicity is SOTA • 131 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🔬 Science Logic
  1. The Monty Hall problem has a new twist, focusing on a valuable goat instead of a car. In this version, knowing which goat is valuable affects your choice.
  2. Using Bayes' theorem can help calculate the probabilities in this variation. After a goat is revealed, you can reassess your chances to make a better decision.
  3. The essential lesson is to update your beliefs with new information. Recognizing how new clues impact your choices is key to making smarter decisions.

Hidden Open Thread 385.5

Astral Codex Ten • 68 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. This post is meant for paid subscribers only. You need a subscription to access the content.
  2. There’s an open thread for discussions, which allows subscribers to share their thoughts.
  3. The content appears to encourage interaction, so subscribers can engage with each other on various topics.

Despite never having done anything wrong, I've found myself living in Canberra. Any of my readers who live in here are invited to drop me a line, meet and commiserate.

Philosophy bear • 114 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. The writer is living in Canberra, even though they feel they haven't done anything wrong. They seem to have mixed feelings about their situation.
  2. They invite local readers to reach out and meet up. This shows they want to connect with others and share experiences.
  3. There's a hint of humor and self-reflection in their words. They are trying to make the best of the situation they find themselves in.

Problems of Unbounded Scope

Bzogramming • 53 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Engineers sometimes think they've solved big problems by finding simpler versions of them. It's important to remember that many complex issues are far from truly solved.
  2. Searching for knowledge can be more effective through random discovery rather than specific queries. Exploring things like Wikipedia can lead to unexpected and valuable insights.
  3. Our understanding of problems is limited, and many challenges we face today will seem small in the future. It's crucial to stay open to new ideas and not assume hard problems are fully resolved.

Me vs Huemer

David Friedman’s Substack • 341 implied HN points • 13 Feb 24
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Consider forming opinions on controversial issues based on evaluating arguments rather than just trusting the experts
  2. Experts may not always have expertise in all aspects of an issue, so it's important to critically evaluate their arguments and not just rely on their authority
  3. It's crucial to judge both arguments and arguers, as bias and incentives can influence the opinions of experts in controversial topics

I still don't think Slate Star Codex readers have an IQ of 137.

Unconfusion • 39 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
📖 Philosophy Logic
  1. Claiming that a group of people has a very high average IQ is a big statement and not as straightforward as it seems. It's easy to assume that just because a blog attracts smart readers, their IQ is automatically high.
  2. Self-reported data, like IQ numbers, can often be inflated. People might think they have higher IQs or might overestimate their scores, making such claims less reliable.
  3. Belonging to a group can make people feel proud or special, but it's important to remember that individual worth isn't defined by group averages. Everyone has their own value, regardless of how they compare to others.

What is Bayesian Statistics? The Beginner Math Guide (Part One)

The Software & Data Spectrum • 78 implied HN points • 13 Apr 23
🔬 Science Logic
  1. Bayesian Statistics is used in various fields like Machine Learning, Engineering, Data Science, and more.
  2. Bayesian Thinking involves observing data, holding prior beliefs, forming hypotheses, gathering evidence, and comparing hypotheses.
  3. Probability is a way to measure belief strength, and calculating probabilities involves counting outcomes and using ratios of beliefs.

AI Might Not Need Experience to "Understand"

AI and Experience Design • 78 implied HN points • 23 May 23
🔬 Science Logic
  1. AI systems might access a Platonic realm of pure ideas without needing consciousness.
  2. There are three interacting worlds proposed by Roger Penrose: world of forms, material world, and mental world.
  3. Accessing the noetic realm through math and reasoning training could lead AI systems to new insights and enhance creativity.

Games in projective space

A Piece of the Pi: mathematics explained • 48 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🔬 Science Logic
  1. Projective geometry removes the concepts of distance and parallel lines, which changes how we think about shapes and space. It's a unique way to understand geometry differently.
  2. In projective space, there are still points, lines, and planes, but the rules are different from traditional geometry. This can lead to interesting and complex interactions.
  3. Games can be explored in the context of projective space, allowing for creative new strategies and outcomes based on its unique properties.

Can You Solve the 'Simple' Two Door Riddle From Labyrinth?

Pryor Questions • 336 implied HN points • 13 Dec 23
🚌 Education Logic
  1. In the movie Labyrinth, there is a logic puzzle involving two guards, two doors, and a choice between truth and lies.
  2. To solve the puzzle, Sarah can ask one guard what the other guard would say, then choose the opposite door.
  3. This puzzle is a version of the Knights and Knaves problem, where one guard always tells the truth and the other always lies.