The hottest Media Critique Substack posts right now

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A beautiful gilded cage

Men Yell at Me • 738 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Public Figures Media Critique Cultural Commentary Gender Politics
  1. Melania Trump's autobiography seems to focus on her life as a victim of the media and not her husband's actions. She avoids discussing serious issues connected to his presidency.
  2. Her book portrays a life of privilege while ignoring the realities that come with it. Melania seems content to stay in her 'gilded cage,' benefiting from her situation.
  3. The idea that Melania and other white women voters are just victims of their circumstances is too simplistic. Many choose to support Trump because it aligns with their own interests.

Dingus of the week: Bret Baier

Men Yell at Me • 558 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Critique Political Commentary Gender Issues Public Discourse Current Events
  1. Bret Baier is criticized for his interview style, which some see as unbalanced and focused on complaints rather than real issues. He often interrupts and uses tactics that undermine the interviewee's credibility.
  2. Harrison Butker faced backlash for comments suggesting women's primary role should be as wives and mothers. His views are viewed as outdated and patronizing, reducing women's roles to traditional expectations.
  3. There are positive initiatives happening, like programs that help formerly incarcerated individuals find jobs in the solar industry, showcasing efforts to support marginalized communities.

Reckoning with the Biden Lie

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 47 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Election Commentary Media Critique Presidential History
  1. Many people ignored signs that Biden might not be fit to serve long-term, but now they are facing the truth about his capabilities. There was a illusion among politicians and media about Biden's readiness that is being dismantled.
  2. Despite some issues, Biden achieved significant policy successes, especially in areas like green energy and healthcare. His administration made important moves against corporate power and economic recovery.
  3. As Biden's presidency ends, he may not have the chance to improve his public image like other past presidents. His time in office will likely be overshadowed by his age and the stark contrast with Donald Trump's influence.

Disaffected tonight at 8

Disaffected Newsletter • 639 implied HN points • 28 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Justice System Media Critique Psychology Crime Rates Public Opinion
  1. The findings from George Floyd's autopsy suggest he wasn't killed by police, citing high fentanyl levels instead of suffocation.
  2. There's a troubling trend where young people feel emboldened to commit violent acts without fear of consequences, leading to tragic outcomes.
  3. Many people shared personal experiences of growing up with a parent who has Borderline Personality Disorder, highlighting the challenges it brings.

Blue Sky Mine

Internal exile • 77 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Social media Digital Culture Content creation User engagement Media Critique
  1. Many users are leaving Twitter to join Bluesky, hoping for a better platform. They want a space that isn't dominated by negativity and misinformation.
  2. Bluesky is attracting users who still value text and reading in a world where video dominates social media. This platform might encourage meaningful conversations through writing.
  3. There's hope that Bluesky can create a new kind of online community focused on text-based interaction, instead of just chasing viral content like other platforms.
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What Do We Even Mean When We Talk About Porn Today?

Many Such Cases • 739 implied HN points • 15 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism Internet culture Media Critique
  1. The discussion around sexual culture today is influenced by the past debates of feminism and personal responsibility, highlighting a conflict between sex positivity and conservative views.
  2. The creation and accessibility of online porn have dramatically changed how we experience and discuss sexuality, yet we're still stuck in old arguments.
  3. Current trends in social media and cultural expressions show a blend of exaggerated performances for profit, complicating perceptions of authenticity and personal choice in sexual expression.

Casting A Wide Net

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 186 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Pop culture Political Discourse Media Critique Social Issues Masculinity
  1. People are increasingly influenced by big personalities and pop culture figures, which can shape their beliefs and feelings. It's important to recognize how this happens, especially in a world flooded with media.
  2. There seems to be a masculinity crisis in society, affecting young men who are feeling lost. Solutions may not be simple, but addressing deeper issues of responsibility and real-life values could help.
  3. Technology and social media are driving a lot of negativity, often promoting conflict and anger. It’s essential to be aware of how algorithms shape what we see and how we react.

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.

Your Social Media Experience is Bad, Regardless of Race and Gender

House of Strauss • 56 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media Critique Social Issues Race relations
  1. Social media experiences can be bad for everyone, no matter their race or gender. Many people face negativity and harsh comments online.
  2. People's experiences on platforms like Twitter can vary greatly based on their background. However, that doesn't mean others can't also face challenges.
  3. There's a growing recognition that everyone struggles with social media in their own way. It's not just a problem for specific groups; it's a widespread issue.

Of Course Fetishes Are Political

Many Such Cases • 1179 implied HN points • 10 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Feminism Political Discourse Social Issues Media Critique
  1. Sex positivity is often seen as the idea that all kinks are personal and shouldn't be criticized. But it's important to understand that sex is also influenced by culture and politics.
  2. Some people see traditional lifestyles, like being a 'tradwife', as just a personal choice, but they can also be tied to specific sexual or cultural fetishes, showing how complicated these desires can be.
  3. We need to be open to discussing and critiquing various fetishes instead of just accepting them as normal. Not all desires are healthy, and we should explore where they come from.

The Wealth Transfer Nobody Talks About

Ijtihad • 57 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military Spending Wealth Inequality Tax policy Foreign Aid Media Critique
  1. The U.S. military spending largely benefits the wealthy, as tax money is used to fund arms sales to other countries.
  2. Around $113 billion has been spent on military assistance to Ukraine and Israel over the past decade, taking funds from public resources.
  3. Mainstream media often ignore this issue, which affects many Americans, likely due to their ties to rich donors.

No one can explain Trump's victory

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 52 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Democracy Political parties Voter Behavior Media Critique
  1. Many articles are trying to explain Trump's win by sharing personal opinions, which often don't reflect the views of most voters.
  2. The real reasons people voted for Trump are complex and not limited to policy disagreements with Democrats.
  3. It's important to recognize that many voters chose Trump knowing about his character flaws, indicating a desire for a different approach to politics.

The Fallout From Trump’s Hate Rally at Madison Square Garden Is Still Growing

Proof • 48 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Campaigning Racism Public Opinion Media Critique
  1. Trump's rally in New York City has been seen as a big mistake and is having serious consequences. Many people are reacting strongly against it.
  2. A recent report described the event as 'revolting' and a 'disaster', showing that it didn't go as planned for Trump.
  3. The Trump campaign has given many confusing reasons for the negative events that happened during the rally, and none of them seem to be true.

Assholes get featured on the front page

Disaffected Newsletter • 879 implied HN points • 22 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Rhetoric Media Critique Public Discourse Social Commentary
  1. Sometimes, people who seem really nice can actually be rude without using bad words. It's important to see through polite language to recognize the disrespect behind it.
  2. Veiled aggression can be sneaky, so we should be careful about how we interpret someone’s words even if they sound nice.
  3. Not everyone deserves respect just because they act civil; true respect should come from genuine kindness and honesty.

Yeah, Yeah, The Sexual Revolution

Castalia • 339 implied HN points • 30 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism Sexuality Social Issues Relationships Media Critique
  1. The sexual revolution has raised questions about its success, with many arguing it has failed. Issues like high divorce rates and rising unhappiness, particularly among women, are often cited as evidence.
  2. Feminism has made strides, but it also faces challenges in the dating market. Women have gained more opportunities, but the realities of attraction and relationships haven't changed significantly.
  3. Society swings between periods of sexual liberation and repression. The hope is for a future where there's more acceptance of diverse sexualities without trying to return to the past's extremes.

Rebellion!

Disaffected Newsletter • 519 implied HN points • 20 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Education & Policy Media Critique Activism Mental health
  1. A therapist discusses Nevada's focus on 'affirmation only' gender ideology and offers advice on finding a non-activist therapist.
  2. People are starting to resist extreme gender policies in schools, highlighted by principals criticizing students for not supporting LGBTQ events.
  3. There is controversy over schools providing inappropriate materials in libraries, as some believe it harms children despite claims of promoting diversity.

On journalism's dishonesty and moral rot

Unreported Truths • 99 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Critique Social Issues Criminal Justice Political Commentary Cultural Commentary
  1. Some media outlets may not clearly condemn violent actions, leading to mixed messages about serious crime. For example, a writer seemed unsure if a murdered executive deserved sympathy.
  2. The way people are described in news articles can reflect biases and affect public perception. Terms like 'subway dancer' and 'ex-marine' can shape how stories are understood.
  3. There's a growing skepticism toward mainstream media, with more people turning to social media for different perspectives. This shift is making traditional news sources seem less relevant.

The Hollow Regret of Biden Coverage

Marginally Compelling • 14 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Media Critique Public Opinion Elections Political Leadership
  1. There's growing concern about President Biden's mental and physical health, especially after some recent news articles highlighted these issues.
  2. Many people have suspected for a while that Biden isn't fully in charge, and this realization is now being acknowledged more openly.
  3. The media faced pressure not to question Biden's condition, which affected their coverage and how they reported on him.

New Normal

Disaffected Newsletter • 659 implied HN points • 06 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Media Critique Social Commentary Pop culture Psychology Identity politics
  1. Many people feel like they're living in a controlled and unnatural environment, similar to the film 'The Stepford Wives.' It's unsettling to interact with others who seem robotic and detached.
  2. Experiences in public spaces have changed significantly, making everyday interactions more uncomfortable than they used to be. People often follow strict rules that create a sense of isolation.
  3. There’s a growing divide in the U.S., with some areas feeling more 'normal' while others seem to embrace a strange new reality. Many are sensing a loss of genuine human connection.

Gays Save The World

Disaffected Newsletter • 539 implied HN points • 24 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics LGBTQ Rights Media Critique Legislation Cultural Commentary
  1. Gay men have reportedly cut back on attending orgies, which some view as a quirky way to suggest they've made a positive impact on the world.
  2. There is a growing realization among women about the realities of transgender issues, with figures like Megyn Kelly speaking out.
  3. California has passed a law that gives therapists the power to take children away from parents they deem unsupportive of their identity.

Covid's most dangerous moment

Unreported Truths • 86 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Pandemic response Public Health Policy Analysis Media Critique Government actions
  1. In March 2020, WHO suggested that health authorities might need to remove infected people from their homes to control Covid spread. This was a controversial idea, especially considering the risks involved.
  2. At that time, public health officials were in a state of panic, even when it was clear that Covid posed a low risk to most healthy adults. This led to extreme measures that many thought were unnecessary.
  3. If things had been worse, the proposals for quarantining families could have gained more traction. It's important to learn from this history to prevent similar approaches in the future.

Inoculate Yourself Against Anti-Worker Media Attacks

JoeWrote • 49 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Labor Rights Media Critique Corporate Influence
  1. Workers often face media attacks that label them as greedy when they strike for better pay. This narrative ignores the profits the companies make and the hard work employees do.
  2. Demands for protections against automation are important to workers. As technology advances, workers worry about being replaced, so unions fight for rules to protect their jobs.
  3. Media claims that striking workers are hurting everyday Americans create division among workers. It's crucial for all workers to support each other to combat these misleading narratives.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 14.01.2025

steigan.no • 7 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Government Policy Media Critique International relations
  1. Fact-checkers and platforms may not always be neutral. Sometimes they're accused of having biases or acting like censorship.
  2. The ability to control 'truth' through information or algorithms can shape public opinion in unseen ways, making it harder to discern what's accurate.
  3. People can easily forget past misinformation when reading new articles, leading to a cycle of misplaced trust in those sources.

Fresh, hot take you're gonna love/hate

Disaffected Newsletter • 499 implied HN points • 02 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture LGBTQ+ Issues Identity politics Media Critique Pop culture Social Commentary
  1. Gay men sometimes idolize strong female figures in a way similar to how straight men idolize their mothers. This shows a connection between their appreciation and their relationships.
  2. The concept emphasizes that relationships with women can be very complex for gay men, involving admiration and emotional ties.
  3. It suggests that the public personas of certain female stars can influence the identities and experiences of gay men, shaping their social narratives.

Help Me Please to Keep Telling You the Truth.

Outspoken with Dr Naomi Wolf • 1 implied HN point • 26 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Censorship Public Health Activism Media Critique
  1. Censorship and backlash against truth-telling are getting worse, making it hard for journalists to do their job. Support from readers is essential to keep covering important stories.
  2. Credit for hard work matters a lot, especially for researchers and journalists who risked a lot to bring important truths to light. Recognizing their contributions can help ensure their safety and open new opportunities.
  3. Maintaining a platform for honest reporting is challenging and costly. Readers' subscriptions and donations are crucial to keep the work going amidst ongoing threats and financial struggles.

Modern Manners

Disaffected Newsletter • 339 implied HN points • 08 May 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Personal Growth Family Dynamics Media Critique
  1. Basic decency seems to be getting worse, especially for those who claim to be oppressed. People often think they can skip courtesy because of their circumstances.
  2. Some mothers may treat their sons in ways that seem too close or inappropriate, raising questions about boundaries. It's important to consider what a child truly needs in those moments.
  3. There are different types of narcissists, and recognizing them can be helpful. It's good to learn how to spot these traits in others, especially in online interactions.

Interview: QTR's Take On The Election Results, Macroeconomics & More

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 19 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
💰 Finance Investing Macroeconomics Media Critique Politics Financial Education
  1. Mainstream media and universities often promote ideas that don't reflect real-world logic. It's important to think critically about what we're being told.
  2. Identity politics can distract from true merit and qualifications in leadership. Focusing on skills and experience is more beneficial for progress.
  3. I prefer to get news from independent sources. This helps me find a wider range of viewpoints and avoid echo chambers.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 30.12.2024

steigan.no • 4 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Media Critique Public Opinion Elections Political Analysis
  1. There is a lot of war propaganda in Finland, making people very anxious about a possible conflict with Russia. Many feel misinformed about the real situation and the likelihood of such a war.
  2. Syria is not really free despite the talk of liberation. The current rulers say it will take years to hold proper elections, hinting at ongoing control rather than true democracy.
  3. Norse media claim to have the best freedom of press, but they often avoid challenging powerful figures and institutions, instead sticking to narratives that align with dominant political views.

Episode 85: Don't you know that you're toxic?

Disaffected Newsletter • 279 implied HN points • 12 Sep 22
🎙 Podcasts Audio Content Social Commentary Pop culture Entertainment Media Critique
  1. People often don't realize how their behavior can be harmful to others. It's important to reflect on our actions and their impact.
  2. Acknowledging our toxic traits can lead to personal growth. Understanding ourselves better helps us improve our relationships.
  3. Communication is key in addressing toxicity. Open conversations can help clear misunderstandings and mend relationships.

You Brought This On Yourself

Disaffected Newsletter • 259 implied HN points • 15 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Health Policies Media Critique Public Opinion Social Issues
  1. Feminists are facing harassment from other women for opposing certain views, highlighting a division in the movement.
  2. The closure of a controversial clinic in the UK is a step forward, but challenges still remain.
  3. There was a recent TV segment that raised concerns about a serious issue, but many people seemed unaware or indifferent to it.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 02.11.2024

steigan.no • 7 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Affairs Political Commentary Media Critique Propaganda
  1. The media like the New York Times and BBC suggest that the West is losing the war against Russia in Ukraine. People in Ukraine are growing frustrated and wish for peace talks.
  2. Some notable figures caution that the current strategies in Ukraine are not working as losses continue to mount. This creates a sense of hopelessness among both soldiers and civilians.
  3. Critics argue that misinformation and propaganda in media affect public perception, pushing narratives that might not fully represent the truth of ongoing conflicts.

Reality Optional-Episode 89

Disaffected Newsletter • 159 implied HN points • 10 Oct 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Journalism Protests Health Policy Media Critique Transgender Issues
  1. Media often responds untruthfully to protests and events, which can skew public perception. It's important to critically evaluate news coverage.
  2. Journalism has shifted towards misleading narratives rather than factual reporting. Trust in news sources has become a significant issue.
  3. Some medical institutions are reevaluating their practices regarding gender transition surgeries for minors, indicating a growing concern in the medical community.

Commentator

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 29 Nov 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Civil Rights Authoritarianism Media Critique Public Health
  1. People in China are bravely protesting against the government's zero-Covid policy and calling for freedom. This shows that even under strict authoritarian control, citizens can still express their desire for change.
  2. In Iran, people are risking their lives to protest against a brutal regime, and there are reports of significant violence against protestors. This highlights a growing unrest and the possibility of change despite the regime's strong grip.
  3. The war in Ukraine continues with heavy casualties and no clear progress, while the Russian military is drawing recruits from vulnerable populations. This situation raises questions about the treatment of soldiers and the toll war takes on communities.

Dear algorithm

Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends • 19 implied HN points • 22 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Internet Social media Content creation Digital Platforms Media Critique
  1. The 'Dear Algorithm' posts on Threads reveal how users are trying to shape their content feeds and connect with specific audiences through an appeal to the algorithm.
  2. These posts also highlight the convergence of targeted advertising logic and individuals' attempts to curate their online presence, creating a more niche approach to reaching desired followers.
  3. The tone of these posts often carries a spiritual element, resembling prayers or appeals to a higher power, emphasizing the mysterious yet influential nature of algorithms in online platforms like Threads.

Jak Ritger: Digital Economy Models

Do Not Research • 39 implied HN points • 16 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Internet culture Digital economy Information Systems Social media Media Critique
  1. Digital producers are undervalued by platforms, so they must seek support outside the platform to sustain their work.
  2. Attention bubbles in viral stories offer opportunities for new narratives and community building at different stages of the story's cycle.
  3. Producers can create interdependent ecosystems by bridging silos, allowing for broader audience access and collaboration in the digital space.

Tuck and Cover

Disaffected Newsletter • 59 implied HN points • 30 Aug 22
🎙 Podcasts Audio Content Media Critique Cultural Commentary Entertainment Social Issues
  1. It's important to be aware of what's happening around us. Staying informed helps us make better decisions.
  2. Taking care of our mental health is crucial. Finding ways to cope and relax can really help us deal with stress.
  3. Community support is valuable. Connecting with others can make us feel less alone and more supported in tough times.

Abby Orler: Investigating the Instagram Infographic Industrial Complex

Do Not Research • 19 implied HN points • 15 Feb 22
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Design Media Critique Activism Consumer behavior
  1. During the surge of infographic media on platforms like Instagram after George Floyd's murder, questions arose about credibility, design origin, and content impact.
  2. Critiques of Instagram Infographics include oversimplification, spreading misinformation, and a shift towards performative activism.
  3. Designers should reevaluate their role in social justice, focusing on accountability within the realm of infographic creation and content dissemination.

In defense of firework conspiracists

Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends • 0 implied HN points • 26 Jun 20
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conspiracy Theories Race relations Social Issues Media Critique
  1. Some people believe in conspiracy theories about fireworks being orchestrated by the police, which may seem complex but come from a place of valid fear and distrust.
  2. Conspiracy theories can reflect the privilege or oppression experienced by different groups - like embittered middle-aged white individuals versus Black city residents.
  3. The rise of new conspiracy theories independent of historical events like assassinations, for instance, in the case of fireworks conspiracies.