The hottest Media influence Substack posts right now

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Michael Wolff: How Trump Digests the News

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 65 implied HN points • 11 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Michael Wolff is known for his provocative insights into Donald Trump, blending sensationalism with a search for truth. His style can be controversial, but many find it engaging and thought-provoking.
  2. Trump consumes news obsessively, looking for validation and ways to spin bad news into good. He relies heavily on his aides to help him interpret stories that make him look favorable.
  3. Wolff's storytelling about Trump captures a deeper understanding of his character and motivations, even if the information isn’t always verified. It provides a relatable view of a complex figure in American politics.

Is there a Crisis of Masculinity?

The Great Gender Divergence • 373 implied HN points • 15 May 23
🎭️ Culture Media influence
  1. Misogyny is declining, and there is increased support for gender equality among young people worldwide.
  2. Modernization in patrilineal societies like China, Korea, and India has led to a crisis of incels due to imbalanced sex ratios.
  3. China's government is repressing female freedoms to address the issue of frustrated incels and social instability.

The Phantom Campaign

Thinking about... • 611 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Manipulative ads can sway voters by showing misleading information. These ads can create confusion and push people towards apathy about voting.
  2. Techniques used in past campaigns, like targeted propaganda, are still being used today. This has affected people's perceptions and discourages them from participating in elections.
  3. We should be aware of how powerful individuals influence our political views. With their resources, they can distort information and impact the democratic process in harmful ways.

Wikipedia’s Islamist Vandals

American Dreaming • 616 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  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.

'Real Women NZ' starts livestreaming on Tuesday 11 April.

A B’Old Woman • 659 implied HN points • 08 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. A rally in Auckland on March 25 shocked many people, as women faced violence from trans activists. This incident has made more New Zealanders aware of how trans issues can affect women's rights.
  2. The police at the rally didn't help the women and seemed told not to intervene. This has caused outrage and led to conversations about the treatment of women.
  3. A new group called 'Real Women NZ' is forming to give women a platform to speak out. They are starting weekly livestreams to talk about women's issues and to engage with their audience.
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The Obligatory Pre-Election Newsletter

Singal-Minded • 629 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Voting is important for democracy and should not be taken for granted. It's a privilege that helps shape the future and should be viewed as a responsibility.
  2. Mainstream media can misinterpret or misreport statements, especially from influential figures like Trump, which can create confusion among voters. Proper context is essential for understanding political discussions.
  3. The Democratic Party needs to reflect on its strategies and communication regarding Trump. To effectively convince the public, they should consider new approaches instead of repeating past tactics.

How To Know Who To Trust, Potomac Plane Crash Edition

Singal-Minded • 401 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Trust is complex and rooted in our evolution as humans. We have to balance our instincts to deceive and to detect deception.
  2. Knowing who to trust is harder today because of the internet. There are many sources, and not all of them are reliable.
  3. Looking for experts can help us navigate claims, but we need to be careful. Sometimes even those with credentials can be wrong or biased.

Ten Lessons from the Covid-19 Pandemic

THE FREEDOM BLOG • 353 implied HN points • 16 Jul 23
🏥 Health Politics Media influence
  1. The response to the Covid-19 pandemic in Western nations was disproportionately authoritarian compared to the actual threat.
  2. It is important to critically evaluate public health policies and not rely solely on emotional reactions.
  3. Citizens should diversify media sources to include independent journalism for a more balanced perspective.

We Argue in Metaphors

In My Tribe • 622 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. We often use metaphors in our discussions, which can make our points unclear. It's important to recognize that metaphors can be helpful but aren't always perfectly accurate.
  2. When we disagree, it can help to focus on the implications of the metaphors we're using. If we can agree on what those implications are, we might find common ground.
  3. Differences in opinion often come from how we interpret metaphors. It's okay to have different views, but we should try to understand why the other person believes what they do.

I went to a UFC fight and a Trump rally broke out

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 570 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Attending UFC events can be a wild mix of sports and pop culture, as seen with celebrities and political figures mingling in the crowd. It shows how these events can attract diverse but passionate fans.
  2. The atmosphere at these events often feels like a rally, where many attendees resonate with the performers more than the actual fights. There's a sense of nostalgia among them for a different way of life they want to reclaim.
  3. People seem more interested in the spectacle and camaraderie than the technical aspects of the fights. Fans boo fighters who don’t engage just like they would at a political event, emphasizing their desire for excitement and connection.

The Manhattan Institute Deleted This Article

Karlstack • 472 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. A man named Oliver D. Smith has been targeting academics in the field of intelligence research, using online trolling and legal threats to disrupt their careers.
  2. The Manhattan Institute removed an article critical of Smith after he reached a private settlement with them, raising questions about his influence and tactics.
  3. Smith's actions have led to real harm for academics, including job losses, by promoting misinformation about their work on platforms like RationalWiki.

MAGA

backstory • 533 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Technological advances can change society dramatically, sometimes causing more problems than expected. It's important to be mindful of this when we embrace new technology.
  2. Historical events often show us how quickly things can change, like the leap from a successful moon landing to the Apollo 13 crisis. It's a reminder of the unpredictability of progress.
  3. When people seek new experiences, they can end up in awkward situations, but those moments can highlight our shared humanity and the unexpected journeys we take together.

Inside the Free Press Inauguration Party

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 431 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  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.

Part II: The failed rebrand of Kamala Harris

Silver Bulletin • 499 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics 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.

Photo of the Day

Photo of the Day • 176 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
💾 History Media influence
  1. Ruthy joined the Women's Army Corp during World War II as an X-ray technician.
  2. There were concerns and rumors about the female military service affecting American social norms during that time.
  3. Propaganda and misinformation, like the 'big lie,' had significant impacts on public perceptions during Ruthy's lifetime.

Alternative Facts

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 1099 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Media influence
  1. Disasters are influenced by human exposure and vulnerability, not just the intensity of extreme events, making cause-effect links challenging to establish.
  2. Climate advocates have historically tried to connect extreme weather events to climate change, leaning towards sensational narratives even when not fully supported by scientific consensus.
  3. Media outlets have become more fragmented, leading to tailored content that aligns with specific audience values, potentially influencing the reporting of climate change issues.

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 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.

Blame the Right-Wing Noise Machine, Not the Facts on the Ground, for Voters' Dismay About the Economy

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 338 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Voters are unhappy about the economy, but it's mainly because they are influenced by misinformation from certain media sources. The reality of the economy isn't as bad as many believe.
  2. The official statistics show a certain level of unemployment and underemployment, but this has always been a part of the economic landscape. People misunderstand these numbers and feel worse than the data suggests.
  3. Many believe the economy is struggling due to flawed statistics, but this misunderstanding has been constant. The data doesn't paint a complete picture of people's real experiences in the job market.

Donald and the Pincer

The Abbey of Misrule • 498 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Many people feel frustrated with the political and media establishment, and they want change. This feeling is similar to what led to movements like Brexit and the rise of populist parties.
  2. Progressive leftism and corporate capitalism are working together more than ever. Both are promoting a modern world that values technology and globalism, often ignoring local traditions and cultures.
  3. There's a growing push for a different approach rooted in local identities and community values. Some believe we need to focus on what truly matters in our lives, rather than getting caught up in modern political divisions.

What’s hiding in the AI doomers’ satchels?

Sex and the State • 27 implied HN points • 10 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. People often use popular causes as cover for other goals, so fighting a big threat can be turned into an excuse for unrelated repression or power grabs.
  2. AI safety is a legitimate concern but can be treated as a ‘satchel’ for other agendas, so it’s important to check who’s promoting it and what else they want before accepting urgent policy demands.
  3. Learn the history and ask questions: understanding past misuses of popular causes and sharing what you learn helps you spot hidden motives and avoid repeating mistakes.

Breaking: Chris Rufo calls for tighter censorship on X

Karlstack • 505 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Chris Rufo believes that there should be more censorship on the social media platform X. He thinks that recent relaxed censorship has allowed harmful ideas to spread more easily.
  2. He points out that anti-Semitic views are becoming more common on the platform, which he finds concerning.
  3. Rufo argues that there needs to be increased oversight to ensure healthier discussions and limit the spread of conspiracy theories.

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 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.

The Other 9/11: Movies, Militarism, and What's Missing from Popular American Consciousness

Humanities in Revolt • 259 implied HN points • 15 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. The Department of Defense has been involved in movie making for over 100 years, ensuring accurate depictions of military rituals but paying less attention to ethical complexities and personal suffering.
  2. Blockbuster Hollywood movies often present idyllic visions of U.S. military policies and warfare, obscuring the nation's global role and historical interventions in other governments.
  3. The movie 'Missing' is a rare exception in Hollywood, shedding light on governmental and military abuses of power, highlighting the power of film in revealing truth and challenging prevailing representations.

Trump and the Dictatorship of the Upper Middle-Class Urbanites

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 112 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Critics often label Trump as authoritarian without clear examples. This can make their arguments feel repetitive and vague.
  2. Many complaints about Trump's behavior center on the actions he takes against powerful groups like journalists and scientists. These groups are often seen as crucial to democracy.
  3. There's a belief that Trump's impacts on the upper middle class threaten democracy. Yet, this class, representing a small part of the population, controls much of the political discourse.

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 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.

Are We Over-Politicized?

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 136 implied HN points • 08 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Many aspects of life, like sports and entertainment, have become overly influenced by politics. It's hard to find a break from political discussions nowadays.
  2. People often feel overwhelmed, wondering if there’s anything left to enjoy that isn't politicized. It leads to frustration and a longing for relief.
  3. There’s a shift in personal behavior; even those who used to keep politics at a distance now find themselves caught up in it, making it hard to escape the noise.

What Everyone Really Wants to Hear

OK Doomer • 121 implied HN points • 14 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. People often say they want their beliefs challenged, but when faced with hard truths, they usually react defensively. It's easier for them to cling to their own ideas than to accept a different perspective.
  2. Many individuals prioritize preserving their self-image over being open to new ideas. This tendency influences their choices in news and politics, often leading to repeated mistakes.
  3. Understanding what people want to hear is complex because it can change day by day. Effective communication means balancing honesty with the need to resonate with people's current feelings and beliefs.

Weekend Update #122: Trump Opens His Mouth and Putin Comes Out

Phillips’s Newsletter • 250 implied HN points • 02 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Trump appears to fully support Putin's views, especially regarding Ukraine's military situation. This shows a concerning alignment with Russia's narrative.
  2. There is a belief that Ukraine is in worse shape than it actually is. Recent reports indicate that the Ukrainian military is holding strong despite Russian advances.
  3. European leaders need to recognize that Trump cannot be a reliable ally for Ukraine and should focus on supportive strategies independent of the U.S.

The Chiang Kai-Shekification of Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Taipology • 99 implied HN points • 23 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Zelenskyy's popularity is declining as more people believe Ukraine is losing the war. His image as a great leader is being questioned.
  2. The media is starting to expose corruption within Zelenskyy's government, similar to what happened with Chiang Kai-shek's leadership in the past.
  3. There seems to be a shift from supporting Zelenskyy to revealing his shortcomings, as the perception of him as a strong leader is changing.

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 Media influence
  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.

COVID Inquiry Finds Lockdowns Were Terrible, While Reporters Call Bullshit on Government’s Lead Academic Advisor

The DisInformation Chronicle • 815 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🏥 Health Politics Media influence
  1. COVID Inquiry in the UK highlights failures of lockdown policies and issues with government advisors
  2. Top government advisors criticized media for promoting harmful COVID misinformation
  3. Journalists pointed out contradictions in the statements of government advisors during the inquiry

the democratic joe rogan

bad cattitude • 357 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. The left is struggling with a lack of humor, thought diversity, and genuine connection, making it hard to attract new supporters. It often resorts to strict ideological tests that push people away.
  2. Many former left-leaning individuals feel alienated as the party has become more extreme, pushing them to seek alternatives. This shift has created frustration and led to a sense of disconnection with the mainstream.
  3. There is a desire for authenticity and genuine conversation in politics. People are tired of fake interactions and want leaders who can ask tough questions and speak honestly, rather than sticking to scripted, safe narratives.

Moloch in the Middle East

Handwaving Freakoutery • 1030 implied HN points • 12 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Media influence
  1. Media mechanics and game theory play a big role in the Israel/Palestine conflict.
  2. Leaders in conflict zones often benefit from perpetuating violence and misinformation.
  3. The cycle of violence and conflict in the Middle East may never end due to the dynamics of power and warfare.

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 Media influence
  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.

Amazon blocks online reviews of Angela Merkel's memoir after readers submit a raft of harsh political critique and one-star ratings

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 312 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Angela Merkel's memoir has received a mix of reviews, with many readers critiquing her lack of self-reflection. They feel she does not acknowledge her mistakes during her time as chancellor.
  2. Amazon has stopped accepting new reviews for the book after receiving a lot of negative feedback, showing that readers are not happy with its content.
  3. Mainstream media reviews are generally positive, focusing on Merkel's achievements, while ordinary readers have a more critical view of her legacy and writing style.

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 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.

Sudden internet fame is warping teenagers' lives

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 324 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Media influence
  1. Teenagers can become famous on the internet very quickly. This sudden fame can change how they see themselves and how others treat them.
  2. Being famous online brings real-life challenges that these young people might not be ready to handle. It can affect their daily lives and relationships.
  3. Society needs to understand this new type of fame better. It's something that has never happened at this scale before, and it’s important to talk about its effects.