The hottest Media Analysis Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics

When Your Country Hits The Skids

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 215 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Current Events Media Analysis Government actions Public Sentiment
  1. It’s important to stay aware of what's happening around us, even if it feels overwhelming. Ignoring reality won't make it disappear; we need to face it as difficult as it may be.
  2. The current political chaos shows how easily systems can be disrupted and how we must remain vigilant. Our democracy is fragile, and we should not assume it cannot happen here.
  3. Even in tough times, we have the power to choose our responses. Staying true to our values and being kind to others is essential, especially when things get really difficult.

Four unpersuasive arguments against TikTok

Read Max • 1132 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Social media Media Analysis Entertainment Books Content creation
  1. There are four unpersuasive arguments for banning TikTok, including concerns about Chinese manipulation, user data security, trade war retaliation, and societal impact not related to China.
  2. MrBeast's transparency with his audience about YouTube business models and growth strategies sets a new standard for authenticity in online content creation.
  3. The future of YouTube and media content creation may shift towards authenticity and relatability, reminiscent of TikTok's success, moving away from the professionalized approach of current YouTube stars like MrBeast.

Univision's Kamala Harris "town hall" for "undecided Latino Voters" was actually filled with avowed Kamala supporters

Michael Tracey • 216 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election coverage Political Events Media Analysis Voter Engagement Public Perception
  1. The town hall event for undecided Latino voters was actually filled with people who already supported Kamala Harris. This misled viewers into thinking they were seeing genuine questions from undecided voters.
  2. The audience consisted of 'seat fillers' and select supporters rather than a true representation of undecided voters. This involved a casting company that chose who got to attend.
  3. Traditional town halls used to be about community discussions, but now they are more like entertainment events with scripted interactions and less real dialogue about concerns.

Mask Hypocrisy And Extremism Is Alive And Well

Unmasked • 73 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health Government Policy Pandemic response Media Analysis Social Issues
  1. There is a lot of inconsistency around mask-wearing, showing that some people don't practice what they preach. This hypocrisy has been a constant theme since the start of the pandemic.
  2. Even after several years, certain groups remain very strict about masking and other COVID rules, highlighting a strong commitment to these behaviors.
  3. New data, like what some found in Sweden, continues to challenge the effectiveness of masks, sparking debates about their true value during the pandemic.
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Semafor's, "Things We Got Wrong in 2024"

House of Strauss • 29 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Opinion Political Commentary Media Analysis Accountability
  1. Public figures often struggle to admit when they're wrong. This can lead to them avoiding accountability and making excuses instead.
  2. Many responses to the prompt reveal a tendency to shift blame or make it about others' failures rather than true self-reflection.
  3. Actual self-critical reflections are rare, but some individuals like Derek Thompson are able to genuinely acknowledge their mistakes.

I Don't Think Dan Le Batard Should Dump on Trump Voters

House of Strauss • 80 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Opinion Media Analysis Civic engagement Political trends
  1. Political discussions can get really intense because they affect people's lives. It's important to try to understand where others are coming from, even if you don't agree with them.
  2. Voting decisions are complicated and often involve many factors. People vote for candidates based on personal experiences and beliefs, not just political slogans.
  3. It's important to focus on connections with others and recognize their humanity, regardless of their political choices. Judging others harshly for their votes can create divides instead of understanding.

Biden Is No Longer Fit For Office

Yascha Mounk • 59 implied HN points • 01 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Leadership Public Opinion Media Analysis Political Commentary
  1. Joe Biden seems to be struggling with serious mental issues, which was clearly shown during a recent debate. It's noticeable that he has moments when he is confused or loses his train of thought.
  2. Many people, including those in the media, are now openly saying that Biden should step down. However, instead of just focusing on his age, they should also recognize the real reasons why he may not be suited to continue as president.
  3. Biden stepping down could allow for a more capable leader to guide the country, especially in critical situations. It's important to have someone in charge who can make tough decisions quickly and effectively.

FACT CHECK: No, President Biden Didn’t Call Donald Trump Supporters “Garbage”

Proof • 68 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Fact-checking Media Analysis Election coverage
  1. President Biden did not insult Donald Trump supporters by calling them 'garbage.' Instead, he was criticizing a specific comment made by a Trump supporter.
  2. The media and Trump used Biden's words out of context to create confusion and controversy. This shows how misinformation can spread easily.
  3. It's important to fact-check statements and understand the context behind what politicians say, especially during election times.

Chris Brunet vs. Christopher Rufo

Karlstack • 231 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Debate Current Events Media Analysis Public Discourse Political Commentary
  1. Chris Brunet is taking a break from writing but plans to return soon. It's been a tough time for him, and he appreciates support from his audience.
  2. He shared a video by Nick that gives a clear overview of his current situation. He finds it helpful in revealing the truth about what's going on.
  3. Brunet is encouraging people to watch the video and engage with his content again once he resumes his writing.

Why Is George Soros Funding COMPACT?

Karlstack • 207 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressive politics Media Analysis
  1. George Soros is funding an organization called COMPACT, which is surprising since he is known for backing progressive causes.
  2. This funding has sparked discussions about the influence of money in politics and how it can cross traditional ideological lines.
  3. The recent coverage by Vanity Fair highlights the complexity of the current political climate, where big donors support both left and right-wing ideas.

2024 S&tS Year in Review

Sex and the State • 13 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Gender Studies Media Analysis Social Issues Personal reflections Writing Techniques
  1. Focusing on gender was a big highlight in 2024. It helped shape the content and direction of the discussions.
  2. The author chose favorite posts based on personal value rather than popularity. This shows a desire to share meaningful insights, not just what's trending.
  3. Collaboration and guest appearances were significant this year. Engaging with others brought in new perspectives and growth for the newsletter.

And I'm not sorry

Disaffected Newsletter • 899 implied HN points • 27 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Cultural critique Social Issues Gender Studies Media Analysis Public Discourse
  1. Some people feel upset about direct talk on tough issues. It's okay to speak your mind, even if it annoys others.
  2. There are mixed feelings around responsibility in relationships. Everyone should own their actions without blaming others.
  3. Sharing honest thoughts can sometimes lead to being seen as irrelevant. But staying true to your beliefs is important.

Julebrev til abonnentene våre

steigan.no • 23 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Public Policy Economic Policy International relations Media Analysis
  1. The organization has created important discussions about major events like the Libya war and the COVID-19 response. They believe these issues impact people daily.
  2. They aim to provide original content instead of just translating articles. This will help offer unique insights on the challenges facing society.
  3. To grow and have more writers, they need financial support from readers rather than relying on wealthy donors. Every small donation helps maintain their independence.

The Worst Takes on the LA Fire, Distilled

I Might Be Wrong • 8 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social media Public Opinion Political Commentary Crisis response Media Analysis
  1. People affected by disasters don’t need to hear dumb comments online. It makes their situation even harder.
  2. Social media often spreads wrong ideas and blame instead of focusing on helping victims. It's important to be sensitive during crises.
  3. Both political sides sometimes oversimplify complex issues, which leads to unfair blame. It’s crucial to understand the whole picture before making claims.

The Election Vindicates JoeWrote's Mission (And Shows Why You Should Support It).

JoeWrote • 33 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Analysis Election coverage Political Commentary Socialism
  1. Both mainstream and independent media often fail to provide the honest and critical analysis that people need. Many people feel disappointed with how current events are covered.
  2. There is a need for media that offers realistic and hopeful solutions to societal problems, rather than just identifying issues without addressing their causes.
  3. Supporting alternative outlets, like JoeWrote, can help create content that focuses on socialist and anti-imperialist perspectives, aiming to fill the gaps left by traditional and independent media.

What the Florida "Anti-LGBT" Laws Actually Do

Handwaving Freakoutery • 622 implied HN points • 12 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Public Opinion Media Analysis Gender Issues Medical Ethics
  1. The Florida laws have minimal impact on adults and gay men/lesbians, focusing more on transgender minors and gender-segregated spaces.
  2. Media portrayal of these laws as 'anti-LGBT' lacks accuracy and may lead to misconceptions.
  3. Public opinion on the measures outlined in the laws shows varying levels of support, indicating a disconnect between media perceptions and public views.

A new framework for media polling analysis

G. Elliott Morris's Newsletter • 456 implied HN points • 22 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Data journalism Election forecasting Media Analysis
  1. Polls should be adjusted based on both accuracy and bias, evaluated based on all factors of data-generating process.
  2. Future polling aggregation may move towards Bayesian statistical techniques for measurement-oriented models.
  3. Models focusing on measurement over prediction can help explore polling components directly, improving journalistic storytelling.

The 'Posie Parker' madness of New Zealand’s mainstream media in just seven days.

A B’Old Woman • 259 implied HN points • 24 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Analysis Public Opinion Political Activism Gender Issues Media Ethics
  1. The mainstream media in New Zealand intensely covered Kellie-Jay Keen, also known as Posie Parker, with 158 news items in one week, mostly negative.
  2. Media coverage may have fueled violence against her and others at a rally, showing a lack of professionalism and a rush to judgment.
  3. After the rally, the media's tone changed slightly, but they initially downplayed the violence that occurred, reflecting inconsistent reporting.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 23.11.2024

steigan.no • 7 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy International relations Media Analysis Health Policy
  1. There's a worrying trend of increasing heart attacks in areas with high vaccination rates. Some studies suggest a dramatic rise in incidents, prompting calls for further investigation.
  2. Experts are discussing the possibility of giving Ukraine nuclear weapons amidst fears of escalating tensions with Russia. There are concerns about how this might change the conflict dynamics.
  3. There's a strong push for a peace agreement in Ukraine, as many believe ongoing support for arms only prolongs suffering. It's important for leaders to prioritize diplomacy over warfare.

Climate Cons

Diane Francis • 419 implied HN points • 20 May 21
🌞 Climate & Environment Climate Science Environmental Policy Media Analysis Public Perception Climate change
  1. The climate debate has shifted from discussing pollution to claiming a climate emergency, leading to the rise of organizations that spread alarmist messages to gain influence and donations.
  2. A scientist named Steven Koonin argues that climate science isn't as settled as people think. He believes that most severe weather events aren't increasing and that extreme predictions about climate change often aren't based on solid facts.
  3. Koonin points out that natural factors like volcanic activity have more impact on climate than commonly acknowledged. He emphasizes the importance of using accurate science and not exaggerating threats in climate discussions.

Commentator

Castalia • 139 implied HN points • 04 Jul 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Media Analysis Foreign Relations Civil Liberties Public Policy
  1. Substack aims to create an alternative space for writers and readers, free from ad-driven content and censorship. It's about giving writers control over their work and promoting diverse voices.
  2. There's a growing trend of writers who feel constrained by mainstream media, and Substack allows them to express their thoughts more freely. This attracts those who are critical of current narratives.
  3. Coverage on major issues like the Shanghai lockdown is often limited or biased in mainstream media, leading to a gap filled by firsthand accounts from platforms like Substack that highlight real struggles.

A bad case of the burnouts

Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends • 79 implied HN points • 19 Feb 21
🎭️ Culture Internet culture Social media Media Analysis Influencer Culture
  1. The writer is feeling overwhelmed and in need of a break, enjoying a weekend trip.
  2. Double-checking links is important, even with potential issues like a sticking keyboard key.
  3. Interesting articles recommended for weekend reading, including one about Slate Star Codex discourse and the Facebook Oversight Board.

Checking in with the real housewives of QAmom

Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends • 39 implied HN points • 13 Nov 20
🎭️ Culture Social media Influencers Conspiracy Theories Internet culture Media Analysis
  1. Instagram influencers may unknowingly promote QAnon conspiracy theories by using hashtags and catchphrases associated with it.
  2. Some QAnon adherents are doubting their beliefs after the election while others are intensifying their commitment, as seen through platforms like Parler.
  3. The future behavior of Instagram influencers who mix lifestyle content with QAnon messaging will be intriguing to watch post-election.

Paper, Blogpost, Podcast

Research && Reflection • 1 HN point • 14 May 24
📖 Philosophy Psychology Rationality Media Analysis Cultural critique Communication
  1. The struggles in dating are different for men and women today. Women often deal with being 'involuntarily single', while men may feel 'involuntarily celibate'.
  2. You can improve how you think by letting go of beliefs that don't help you predict the future. This means trusting only the ideas that work for you.
  3. The Dwarkesh Podcast features experts discussing important topics. Learning from their insights can help you understand complex subjects better.

Breadtube Glossary

Do Not Research • 0 implied HN points • 18 Mar 21
🎭️ Culture Internet culture Media Analysis Influencers Political Commentary
  1. Breadtube emerged after the 2016 election and features video essays as a quick way to share key political ideas.
  2. There are various video essay types within Breadtube, including slideshows, theatrical videos, and streamed lectures.
  3. Breadtube personalities encompass characteristics like Theater Kid Energy, Cross-platform Influencers, and the process of Deradicalising.

Gentlemen, do I have five numbers correct?

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 12 Jul 10
🎭️ Culture Entertainment Nostalgia Media Analysis
  1. There's a lot of luck involved in getting on The Price is Right and winning, even if you know the prices. You have to be selected to be a contestant and then win several games to succeed.
  2. Bidding exactly right on your showcase can be risky. You might end up going over the price and missing out on the win, so it's smarter to make a careful guess.
  3. The Price is Right pays for its prizes itself, not sponsors. This means that if contestants keep winning, the show's producers might change the games or prizes to protect their budget.

News/Acc: News. Accelerated.

Do Not Research • 0 implied HN points • 15 Sep 21
📰 News Media Analysis
  1. News/Acc provides a quick overview of corporate media messaging without getting caught up in any propaganda, typically not taking longer than 5 minutes.
  2. The project was made possible by the support, encouragement, and enthusiasm of the DNR community.
  3. You can stay updated with News/Acc on their Youtube, Instagram, and Twitter accounts.

The Titan memes are not that deep

Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends • 0 implied HN points • 25 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Internet culture Media Analysis Humor Social Issues Pop culture
  1. Cruel disaster jokes may not be as deep as they seem, often reduced to symbols of resentment towards institutions.
  2. The rise of AI is creating many new low-paid jobs like annotating photos for AI learning systems.
  3. Online shopping trends reflect deeper societal shifts, like the changing dynamics of women's labor and the pursuit of household power.