The hottest Media influence Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics

Best of The Free Press: It’s Okay to Change Your Mind

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2184 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Views Immigration Policy Media influence Public Opinion Political Spectrum
  1. Changing your mind is okay. Being open to new ideas helps you grow and rethink your previously held beliefs.
  2. On-the-ground reporting gives a clearer view of issues. Stories that present the facts can challenge your views and make you consider different perspectives.
  3. Engaging with a variety of opinions is valuable. Hearing thoughts from across the political spectrum helps in understanding complex issues better.

Mass hysteria was the inevitable outcome of the UFO craze

The Intrinsic Perspective • 14325 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Public Perception Media influence Historical comparisons
  1. Mass hysteria can arise from public fascination with unexplained phenomena, like UFO sightings. When people see strange things in the sky, it can lead to widespread panic and demand for action.
  2. Many reported UFO sightings often turn out to be ordinary things, like planes or celestial objects. This shows how easy it is for people to misinterpret what they see at night.
  3. The government's UFO investigations have led to little real evidence, reminding us that much of what we believe can be based on misunderstanding or over-excitement. It's important to approach sensational stories with a critical eye.

This Is a Test for America

Yascha Mounk • 3517 implied HN points • 16 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political violence Elections Political parties Public Opinion Media influence
  1. Most Americans are against political violence and were saddened by the attempt on Trump's life. This shows a basic commitment to resolving differences peacefully, which is important for a healthy democracy.
  2. Unfortunately, there are still some who celebrate violence and mock its victims. This reaction reflects a deeper frustration with American institutions, which many feel are failing to provide safety and security.
  3. While America has a lot of strengths, the mix of political anger, conspiracy thinking, and institutional failures presents a real risk. If not addressed, these issues could threaten the decent instincts that many ordinary Americans share.

Bullet Points: Everything is Collapsing Edition

The Future, Now and Then • 195 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social movements Media influence Government Accountability
  1. Elon Musk's management of Twitter, now called X, has not gone well. Despite some people still supporting his approach, many see that things have clearly gotten worse since he took over.
  2. Activist strategies need to adapt to a changing political landscape where media and social platforms wield less influence than before. This means finding new ways to create impactful confrontations and inspire collective action.
  3. Curtis Yarvin may not have as much real influence as some believe. His popularity among certain powerful people reflects their own views more than it indicates he is shaping political direction.

Let's Look at the Map. Trump May Not Need Michigan and Pennsylvania.

Vicky Ward Investigates • 119 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Campaign Strategy Election Dynamics Political Analysis Media influence Voting Trends
  1. Trump might benefit because Kamala Harris hasn't distanced herself from Biden enough.
  2. Spending a lot on ads may not help much once you've reached most voters, so the extra funds might not matter.
  3. The electoral map shows that Trump might not need to win Michigan or Pennsylvania to succeed.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Two Viral Essays From Longtime Elon Musk Friends Have Just—Yes, Really—Revealed Musk’s Origin Story As a Global Supervillain

Proof • 268 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Public Figures Social Commentary Media influence Technology impact
  1. Two essays about Elon Musk reveal surprising details about his rise and influence. They suggest he has traits of a supervillain.
  2. These writings claim to outline significant moments in Musk's life that shaped his current persona. It's a perspective that paints him as a global threat.
  3. The essays have gone viral, attracting attention and debate about Musk's character and motivations. It's a compelling read for anyone curious about his impact.

Keep Calm, Carry On ... And Wait

The Weekly Dish • 180 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Public Opinion Political culture Media influence
  1. It's important to stay calm when dealing with political uncertainty. Panicking doesn't help, so taking a deep breath can be a good start.
  2. Waiting can sometimes be a strategic choice in politics. Instead of rushing to make decisions, giving things time might lead to better outcomes.
  3. Understanding the past can help us navigate current events. Reflecting on previous election cycles can give us insights into what might happen next.

The Unchecked Libidinal Energy of Politics: A Review of Nancy Mace’s Twitter Account

Default Wisdom • 392 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Social media Public Relations Media influence
  1. Nancy Mace's Twitter account mixes politics and playful engagement, using flirtation and humor to connect with her audience. This shows a shift in how politicians can interact with the public.
  2. Her approach breaks traditional political boundaries, inviting more lighthearted and personal exchanges between constituents and their leaders. This changes the way people view and relate to their representatives.
  3. While Mace’s social media tactics are innovative, her actual political proposals need to keep up to make a real impact. Balancing fun online with serious policy-making is key for her success.

Technology vs Democracy

Comment is Freed • 123 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Federal Policy Election Dynamics Media influence Political Ideology Government Structure
  1. Elon Musk has gained significant influence in Trump's administration, compared to his lack of support during Trump's first term. This shift has raised concerns about the impact on government and democratic processes.
  2. There are serious worries about the constitutional implications of Musk's involvement in government. Courts are starting to react, but many changes could be harmful before any legal decisions are made.
  3. Musk's actions and the ideology behind them are confusing to traditional political systems. New internet culture is impacting politics in ways that make it hard for older generations to understand what's happening.

Inside the Free Press Inauguration Party

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 431 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Media influence Public Figures Government Election
  1. The Free Press hosted an exciting inauguration party in Washington, D.C., attracting many influential guests. It was a lively event blending different people from politics, media, and entertainment.
  2. Guests included notable figures like Ted Cruz, Jillian Michaels, and several prominent media personalities. The gathering showcased a mix of ideas and perspectives from various parts of society.
  3. The event highlighted the themes of change and uncertainty that come with new leadership. It also marked the start of The Free Press's journey in covering news with independence and fearlessness.

Incessantly calling men toxic is a bad way to get their votes

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 2994 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Political parties Public Opinion Media influence
  1. Calling men toxic all the time isn’t a good strategy to win their votes. It’s better to understand and address their feelings instead.
  2. Instead of only focusing on culture wars, politicians should talk about real issues that affect people's lives, like economic struggles.
  3. Men have their own challenges and need to feel valued and heard. Engaging them positively is key to gaining their support.

Twitter's White Terror era

Wrong Side of History • 527 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Media influence Political Movements Historical comparisons Censorship
  1. The end of strict censorship on Twitter has led to more vocal expressions of conservative viewpoints. This shift can sometimes feel aggressive and even vengeful.
  2. The current Twitter atmosphere is compared to historical events where one group experiences oppressive rule, followed by a backlash from those silenced.
  3. The changes on social media mirrors shifts in power dynamics, much like political movements throughout history, where voices once suppressed start to push back.

Trump, Musk, Gaza, the Rise of Totalitarianism and the End of the US Empire

The Chris Hedges Report • 353 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political issues Totalitarianism Global relations Media influence
  1. The rise of totalitarianism is a growing concern in today's society. Many people feel freedom is slipping away and that authoritarian leaders are gaining power.
  2. The situation in Gaza highlights major issues related to human rights and global political struggles. This conflict affects many lives and raises questions about justice and peace.
  3. There is a sentiment that the US empire is declining. Some believe that both political and economic issues point to a significant change in power and influence on the world stage.

In The Jan 6 Killing Of Ashli Babbitt, A Double-Standard On Cop Misconduct

Stark Realities with Brian McGlinchey • 595 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Law enforcement Public Safety Political Rhetoric Civil Rights Media influence
  1. There seems to be a double standard in how people react to police shootings based on their political beliefs. Some cheer for officers who harm certain individuals while condemning others under similar circumstances.
  2. The use of lethal force by police should only occur if there is a clear and imminent threat. In Ashli Babbitt's case, many argue there wasn't a justifiable reason for the officer to shoot her.
  3. Past behavior of police officers can raise concerns about their decision-making, especially when they've had issues with gun safety before. This highlights the need for accountability in law enforcement.

Canceled AGAIN

Disaffected Newsletter • 1218 implied HN points • 28 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cancel Culture Media influence Conservative Politics Political Commentary Current Events
  1. Digital cancellation is affecting jobs in the news industry, especially for conservative voices. Many writers have lost their jobs due to this trend.
  2. The government and media are working hard to change public perception of unpopular leaders. They are trying to convince people to like the vice president, despite her low approval ratings.
  3. There is increasing tension and vandalism related to political protests, with some groups targeting historical monuments and individuals in provocative ways.

DRAFT NOTES on "Grab 'Em by the Pussy" for January 20, 2025

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 246 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural Commentary Social Dynamics Gender Issues Media influence
  1. Right-wing young men should realize that bravado and aggression won't help them succeed. Instead, they need emotional intelligence and collaboration skills.
  2. Emulating wealthy individuals who use rude language can lead to serious consequences. It’s essential for young men to understand that being viewed negatively can limit their future connections.
  3. Focusing solely on making money without considering social goals can create shallow relationships. Real success involves more than just financial gain; it's about building genuine connections.

Changing Your Mind

Points And Figures • 1305 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Government Elections Public Opinion Media influence
  1. People often want to believe that leaders and institutions have their best interests at heart. This trust can be shaken when they see questionable behavior from those in charge.
  2. Changing your mind can happen when you look closely at the facts and data. It's important to weigh different perspectives, even if you initially disagree.
  3. A significant portion of the population wants to stay out of political conflicts and just live their lives. They may need to be motivated to take a stand when they see that their interests are potentially at risk.

The Trump Restoration

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 1762 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Electoral Politics Party Dynamics Media influence Populism
  1. The idea that the Trump family could become part of the elite class in the future seems possible, especially with younger generations like Barron's kids. This shows how power dynamics can shift over time.
  2. Many people are confused by the political state where a convicted felon can become president. This blending of reality TV and politics complicates our understanding of what's real and what's a show.
  3. Democrats seem to have lost touch with everyday Americans, focusing too much on identity politics instead of real economic issues. This disconnect has allowed Trump and his supporters to thrive.

Why pervasive media propaganda is ultimately self-defeating and destructive to the political class that wields it

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 138 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Political propaganda Government Agencies Political Dysfunction Public Sentiment
  1. Pervasive media propaganda can actually backfire on those in power. It might stop some dissent, but it can also lead to a loss of trust from the public.
  2. Government agencies like USAID play a big role in funding media, but this could create problems for the political elite. Their support for certain narratives can drive people towards opposing views.
  3. Political chaos, like the situation in Germany, can arise from too much media manipulation. This confusion might drive more voters to support populist movements.

What does Jeff Bezos' non-endorsement mean?

Read Max • 1949 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Media influence Public Opinion Endorsements Political Campaigns
  1. Jeff Bezos stopped the Washington Post from endorsing a presidential candidate. He believes endorsements can look biased and hurt the paper's reputation.
  2. Staff at the Post were unhappy about Bezos' interference, with some resigning and subscribers canceling. It shows tension between owners and journalists over editorial independence.
  3. TikTok stars like A.J. and Big Justice are popular, but their content can feel confusing or ironic to some. Many wonder if their fans genuinely enjoy them or if it's all a big joke.

Two Ways to Understand the "Vibe Shift"

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 2511 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conservatism Cultural Shifts Political trends Media influence Public Opinion
  1. There seems to be a 'vibe shift' happening in conservative culture, where they are gaining more popularity and recognition. This shift is surprising given past perceptions of conservatives as being less culturally influential.
  2. The current political climate shows that even small victories can have large cultural impacts. This raises questions about whether the shift will continue or if it is just a temporary trend.
  3. As the conservative vibe shifts, it challenges old beliefs about the hostility of institutions like Big Tech. This suggests that the relationship between conservatives and these institutions might be changing.

Republicans ready to defeat tax bill to help Trump

Today's Edition Newsletter • 6820 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Impeachment Media influence
  1. Senate Republicans may defeat tax bill to prevent President Biden from gaining popularity before the election
  2. The House committee voted on impeachment resolution against Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas based on immigration policies
  3. Biden's polling numbers show strength among women and independents, countering false narratives about Trump's lead

The First Annual NonZero Awards

Nonzero Newsletter • 576 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Corruption Elections Political Commentary Media influence
  1. The NonZero Awards celebrate significant events and people from the previous year, recognizing both good and bad moments in media and politics.
  2. Corruption in politics often becomes a spectacle, with some cases, like those involving certain politicians, described in a humorous and exaggerated manner.
  3. The rise of AI has opened new discussions and concerns, notably regarding its use in both everyday tasks and potentially dangerous contexts, like propaganda.

HyperNormalisation Is Breaking—What Happens When the System Can No Longer Hide the Truth?

Anima Mundi • 61 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Government Systems Crisis Management Media influence
  1. HyperNormalisation is when people pretend things are fine, even when they know problems are getting worse. This can lead to a false sense of security and misdirection.
  2. Leaders like Musk and Trump create simple narratives to distract from complex issues. They offer easy solutions instead of tackling real problems, making it harder for people to see the truth.
  3. We are facing multiple global crises, and we need to build a new system focused on regeneration and sustainability. A shift towards creating more energy and resources could lead to a more abundant future.

The majority of news influencers are conservative men, study finds

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 4448 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Political Bias Gender Issues Social media Public Discourse
  1. Most news influencers are men, and they often have conservative views. This creates a lopsided perspective in the news people consume online.
  2. Social media algorithms tend to favor sensational and emotionally charged content, which means that conservative voices get more attention. This can shape public opinions unfairly.
  3. TikTok is different from other platforms like Facebook and YouTube, as it has a more balanced gender representation among news influencers and doesn't favor conservative views as much.

Election Countdown, 11 Days to Go: Reasons to be Brave.

Breaking the News • 1500 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Civic engagement Political Commentary Media influence Voting Rights
  1. People should be brave and confident in their beliefs, especially during political campaigns. It's important to face challenges with determination and pride.
  2. Leadership and hope are powerful motivators for citizens. Most Americans want to strive for a better future together rather than succumb to negativity.
  3. Collaboration across political lines is essential. It’s crucial to focus on unity and the things we stand for, rather than getting lost in division and despair.

The Fox Logo Burned into the Television

Residual Thoughts • 59 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Political Discourse Cultural impact Corporate strategy
  1. Fox News grew because it tapped into a market that older networks ignored, particularly conservative viewers. This audience felt left out and found a home with Fox.
  2. The rise of Fox News shows how big companies can overlook parts of the market due to their internal culture. In this case, traditional networks had a liberal bias that prevented them from recognizing conservative viewers' needs.
  3. As Fox News became a big player, new competitors emerged that might offer even more extreme views. This is a cycle where big companies can become out of touch and risk being disrupted again.

Meta's Threads is 'overrun' with liberal election fraud conspiracies

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 4598 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Issues Political Discourse Media influence Conspiracy Theories
  1. Many people on Meta's Threads are sharing false claims about election fraud, similar to what we saw in previous elections. This shows a growing trend of conspiratorial thinking among some groups.
  2. The social media platform's efforts to limit political content may have created a space where misinformation can thrive. Users often struggle to find reliable news on this app.
  3. As trust in traditional media decreases, both liberals and conservatives are increasingly turning to conspiracy theories. This trend can threaten democracy and public accountability.

Breaking The Iron Triangle of Elite Hate

Welcome to Absurdistan • 6132 implied HN points • 28 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Government Protests Economic Impact Media influence International relations
  1. Canada's Liberal Party, in power for a century, is projected to lose to Conservatives.
  2. The government funded NGO, CAHN, was found to drive bureaucratic action by labelling opposition as hate.
  3. Trudeau's invocation of the Emergencies Act based on fabricated intelligence led to backlash against his leadership.

Trump Made His Bedminster. Now He Has To Lie In It.

The Status Kuo • 10534 implied HN points • 27 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legal issues National Security Government Corruption Accountability Media influence
  1. The audio tape provides direct evidence of Trump's willful dissemination of national security information.
  2. Trump has a history of being caught on tape admitting to or in the process of committing crimes.
  3. The importance of holding Trump accountable for compromising national secrets is crucial, regardless of the final legal outcome.

Child Rape in Hollywood. How Much Can You Handle?

Welcome to Absurdistan • 5876 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Hollywood Child abuse Conspiracy Theories Media influence Celebrity Culture
  1. Child trafficking and sexual abuse are pervasive issues in Hollywood, involving influential figures and leading to severe emotional trauma for victims.
  2. Yachting is a common practice for young movie stars to make money, involving interactions with wealthy individuals for financial gain.
  3. Media and entertainment industries may be contributing to a culture of fear and exploitation through violent content and dark themes, potentially impacting viewers negatively.

German fascism crisis escalates as Elon Musk publishes a devastating 600-word editorial explaining why he supports Alternative für Deutschland

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 363 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Election Strategies International relations Political Identity Media influence
  1. Elon Musk believes Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) is key to saving Germany. He argues that their policies can help revive the economy and address social tensions.
  2. Critics of Musk's views worry that his support for the AfD undermines Germany's political stability. They feel that allowing such opinions can influence public perception negatively.
  3. Musk's perspective highlights a broader discomfort with the traditional political order in Germany. Many Germans feel their concerns are ignored by established parties.

Elon Musk, undeterred by days of German political hyperventilation, continues to promote fascism and undermine democracy by tweeting things and scheduling interviews with people

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 295 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Democracy issues Media influence International relations Election interference
  1. Elon Musk is facing criticism in Germany for his tweets that some view as undermining democracy. Many people are particularly concerned about his support for a far-right political party called Alternative für Deutschland.
  2. German politicians and journalists are reacting strongly against Musk's comments. They are worried that his influence could disrupt democratic processes in the country.
  3. There are calls from German leaders for Musk to stop interfering in their political affairs. They emphasize the importance of protecting democracy and the need for responsible communication from influential figures.

Trump Rescuing Tik-Tok; Can the USA be Bothered to Save Itself?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 164 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive Power Foreign Policy National Security Political Commentary Media influence
  1. Trump criticized Biden's support for Ukraine during his inauguration, calling it a national betrayal. This signals a shift in US foreign policy, raising concerns for Ukraine's future support.
  2. Trump's move to halt the TikTok ban is seen as a significant abuse of presidential power and questions the rule of law in the US. It suggests he can change laws at will, which is troubling for democracy.
  3. The response from American companies about TikTok may indicate their willingness to support authoritarianism over legal standards. If they prioritize profit over the law, it could weaken the spirit of democracy in the country.

Psychological Pollution

Disaffected Newsletter • 2218 implied HN points • 02 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Public Space Human behavior Media influence
  1. Modern life is filled with constant noise from machines and devices, making it hard to find quiet moments. This noise can create stress and a sense of chaos in our minds.
  2. Advertisements and screens are everywhere, demanding our attention and creating visual clutter. This overload can make it tough to enjoy our surroundings.
  3. People seem to have lost a sense of public etiquette, leading to more distractions and rudeness in everyday interactions. This can leave us feeling frustrated in social settings.

Wikipedia’s Islamist Vandals

American Dreaming • 616 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Misinformation Media influence Historical revisionism Activism
  1. A group of editors has been manipulating Wikipedia pages to make certain groups look better and downplay unpleasant truths, especially regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict.
  2. One major focus of these edits was Hajj Amin al-Husseini, a controversial figure who collaborated with Nazi Germany, with efforts made to hide his negative actions in historical records.
  3. This manipulation of information on Wikipedia shows how easily facts can be distorted online, raising concerns about the reliability of what people read about important historical events.

Our intelligentsia has abandoned our illiterati

Sex and the State • 58 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Ideology Media influence Voter Demographics Gender Issues
  1. Many young men who don’t read much are being influenced by certain podcasters, which is a concern for progressives trying to win elections.
  2. These podcasts often focus on entertainment rather than politics, appealing to men who might not engage with more traditional media.
  3. There is a need for more relatable and engaging political messaging to connect with young men in the lower educated and income brackets, especially from the left.

Part II: The failed rebrand of Kamala Harris

Silver Bulletin • 499 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Campaigns Election Strategy Branding Public Perception Media influence
  1. Political campaigns today are a lot like branding campaigns. Successful candidates have strong, memorable brands that stick with voters.
  2. Kamala Harris struggled to define her brand compared to other political figures. Inconsistent branding and messaging led to confusion about what she truly represents.
  3. The quick rise and fall of trends like 'Brat Summer' show how fleeting political memes can be. While they can spark interest for a short time, they don't build lasting support.