The hottest Media influence Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics

Permission to be Not Good Yet | #30

The Pole • 99 implied HN points • 02 Sep 23
💼 Business Media influence
  1. Giving yourself permission to not be good yet is essential for growth and learning.
  2. It's okay to have moments of being rambly or imperfect in your work, as long as you keep showing up.
  3. Developing skills takes time and iteration, so allowing yourself to suck at first is part of the process.

Governing by Terror

Can We Still Govern? • 178 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Intimidation has become common for public servants, affecting their ability to work effectively. This creates a scary work environment that can stop good governance.
  2. The media sometimes amplifies unfounded attacks on officials, treating them as national scandals without factual evidence. This can lead to harassment and fear among these public workers.
  3. The tactics used against public servants, like surveillance and creating lists of targets, are similar to those seen in universities. This shows a broader trend of attacking institutions and encouraging a culture of fear.

The Virtue of Strange [Trenchant Edges]

The Trenchant Edges Newsletter • 98 implied HN points • 23 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Media influence
  1. The podcast discusses the concept of escaping the socially constructed reality and the dangers of selling fringe ideas with ulterior motives.
  2. Knowledge is influenced by media gatekeepers, leading to stigmatized knowledge that challenges the mainstream, creating a cultic milieu with diverse information sources.
  3. The US is navigating a time of fraying imperial influence, with potential futures ranging from doubling down on empire to focusing on building local communities and addressing societal needs.

Musk's Hyper-McCarthyism

Unpopular Front • 110 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Some believe that the actions of Musk and Trump are part of a larger plan connected to old ideological beliefs. Even if it seems chaotic, there might be a deeper reason behind their strategies.
  2. The attacks on government and its officials are seen as part of a larger goal to undermine social democratic values, similar to past political movements. This is not just about individual actions, but about changing the system itself.
  3. Musk is using social media as a way to gather support and spread his ideas, much like past leaders used their platforms. It's important for media and society to recognize this and not validate actions that have harmful intent.

We All Live on 4Chan Now

American Dreaming • 107 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Right-wing troll culture has become popular and is now everywhere. Many people are starting to use the same language and attitude as extreme right actors.
  2. People are more relaxed about serious issues now, sometimes even joking about things that should concern them. This makes it hard to have real discussions about important topics.
  3. It's okay to care about things and express your feelings. We shouldn't let popular trends make us act tough or indifferent about serious matters.
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Don't expect the tech platforms to help us this time.

The Future, Now and Then • 162 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Tech platforms like Facebook and Google may not help protect democracy like they did in the past. They're more focused on their own interests now.
  2. The government can't be relied on to regulate these platforms effectively for a long time. Rebuilding proper regulation will take years or even decades.
  3. Expect tougher times ahead as the political landscape changes. The courts, media, and tech platforms that were once allies may not be as supportive this time around.

Americans Had Two Decades to Ditch Dr. Oz. Now He's in Charge.

OK Doomer • 151 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Dr. Oz has been appointed to oversee Medicare and Medicaid, which could negatively impact millions of Americans. His history of promoting questionable health products raises concerns about his leadership.
  2. There is a risk that Dr. Oz will push for privatized Medicare and Medicaid, potentially resulting in millions losing their healthcare coverage. This approach contrasts with the desire for universal healthcare access.
  3. Dr. Oz's past comments and actions suggest he prioritizes profits over people's health, and this pattern may continue in his new role. His decisions could affect the well-being of vulnerable populations, especially low-income families and seniors.

Genocide as Colonial Erasure (w/ Francesca Albanese) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 161 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Genocide is recognized as a process, and many actions taken against the Palestinian people, including mass killings and forced displacement, indicate a systematic effort to destroy them as a group.
  2. The situation in both Gaza and the West Bank shows a deteriorating humanitarian crisis, with conditions worsening and acts of violence against Palestinians increasing significantly over time.
  3. International responses, including arms embargos and legal actions, are crucial to address ongoing violence and prevent further genocide; the failure to halt these actions raises concerns about global accountability and respect for human rights.

As a Society, We Keep "Forgetting" The Most Important Lessons. It's Intentional.

OK Doomer • 153 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. As a society, we often forget important lessons on purpose. This can lead to repeating the same mistakes over and over.
  2. Some organizations and governments are actively erasing history from public knowledge. This makes it hard for people to learn from past events.
  3. People may not want to remember or learn from their experiences. This collective amnesia can be frustrating for those who do want to learn.

The War Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg Are Fighting Isn’t the One You Think It Is

Proof • 115 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg are involved in a struggle that goes beyond their public personas. It indicates deeper issues and contrasting views on capitalism.
  2. Musk's long-held image of being a principled capitalist is being challenged. His true views may not align with what he has portrayed for years.
  3. Zuckerberg may be following a similar path, suggesting that both figures are redefining their roles and the narratives around them in the business world.

Slime Pays

Diane Francis • 719 implied HN points • 01 Apr 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Britain has used a caste system to control its people, based on social status and behavior. This creates a shame culture that still affects society today.
  2. Rupert Murdoch built a media empire that has influenced both British and American media with sensationalist and often unethical journalism. His outlets have been linked to serious scandals and controversies.
  3. Fox News brought a toxic style of media to America that focuses on divisive and dishonest narratives. This has harmed political discussion and credibility in journalism.

Have You Lost a Loved One to Propaganda? It’s Not Too Late

Anxiety Addiction & Ascension • 79 implied HN points • 11 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Media influence
  1. Propaganda is still prevalent today, disguised as PR, marketing, news media, and entertainment, influencing society without people realizing it.
  2. Many individuals, even with a basic understanding of faults in mainstream ideology, can fall prey to propaganda due to constant exposure from sources like TV networks.
  3. It's crucial to help loved ones find their way out of propaganda's grasp by engaging in rational discourse and providing alternate perspectives.

On the bizarre case of Stephan Kramer – the spy chief & anti-AfD crusader who leaked secrets to journalists, hung out with a Russian biker gang & got caught plagiarising from an Antifa newsletter

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 115 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. A spy chief named Stephan Kramer is involved in some strange and questionable activities, including leaking secrets to journalists. He's also linked to a Russian biker gang, which raises eyebrows.
  2. There's a significant media campaign in Germany aimed at reducing the political influence of the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party, as they're gaining popularity.
  3. Kramer's actions, like trying to investigate the AfD without any justification, show the lengths to which some officials might go to control political narratives.

How The Intellectuals Lost (Many Times Over)

Castalia • 2 HN points • 22 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Media influence
  1. Intellectuals used to have a lot of power in society, but their influence has diminished over time due to literacy changes and the rise of mass communication. Now, it seems like high culture is fading away.
  2. The shift towards democracy and mass entertainment has made it harder for intellectuals to maintain their status. Instead of valuing education and knowledge, people often focus on common interests and easy-to-digest entertainment.
  3. Intellectuals have sometimes allied themselves with outdated ideas, such as socialism, which has hurt their credibility. Now that cultural prestige is less important, those who love ideas can enjoy them without worrying about social status.

People, ideas, machines XII: Theories of regime change and civil war

Dominic Cummings substack • 47 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. The current political landscape is unstable, with many fearing an increase in violence and chaos as societal divisions deepen. People are concerned about the government's ability to maintain order.
  2. Both major political parties seem disconnected from the public's concerns, particularly around immigration and societal issues. This disconnect may lead to a loss of trust and support from voters.
  3. There are discussions about the potential rise of new political forces in response to the failures of traditional parties. Some believe this could lead to significant changes in the political system.

No News is Good News

Soaring Twenties • 123 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Consuming news can drain your energy and happiness. It's often filled with negativity and sensationalism that can leave you feeling stressed and confused.
  2. People often think they need news to be informed or good citizens, but this belief doesn’t really hold up. Most news doesn't significantly impact your life or help you make better decisions.
  3. Instead of following the news, focus on your local community and the things you can actually influence. True understanding comes from deeper reading and personal experiences, not from constant news updates.

So Much "Succession" 

SatPost by Trung Phan • 79 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. The Murdoch family's media empire is facing succession drama similar to the TV show 'Succession.' Rupert Murdoch's plans for his children to inherit control have sparked legal battles.
  2. The trust set up by Rupert Murdoch grants all four of his eldest children equal voting rights after his death, but he has tried to change that to favor one child, creating tension among the siblings.
  3. The real-life Murdoch family's rivalry and issues echo many plot points from 'Succession,' leading to speculation about which family member is leaking stories to the show's writers.

Curator

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 30 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Wokeness is seen by some as a call for a fresh start, especially within the Black community, moving away from past injustices towards a new political entity.
  2. Ernst Junger's writings highlight a fascination with death and a disdain for boring, comfortable living, linking militarism to a critique of modern society.
  3. A.O. Scott's retirement from film criticism signals changes in how movies are perceived, and the role of reviews in shaping art is being questioned as they affect creators deeply.

HWFO Reading List, February 2024

Handwaving Freakoutery • 237 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. The foundation of SETI uses the Drake Equation to estimate the existence of extraterrestrial life, similar to how an estimate could be made for the likelihood of someone shooting Trump.
  2. James Hankins' anti-diversity statement may signal shifts in ideologies and academic environments.
  3. Studies on topics such as car seat laws affecting fertility rates and brain structures defining self-perception shed light on various intriguing scientific findings.

If Reality Doesn't Support Republican Politics, Then Republicans Will Change Reality.

JoeWrote • 88 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Republican politicians often change the facts to fit their agenda, especially after events like terrorist attacks. They want to support their views, even if it means spreading wrong information.
  2. The response to tragic events usually focuses on promoting fear and political goals instead of addressing real issues like mental health and gun control. This shows a lack of genuine concern for people's well-being.
  3. Mainstream media plays a role in this by sometimes giving a platform to these misleading narratives. They often don’t challenge lies, which can confuse the public about what is true and what isn’t.

How to judge federal nominees: Stories about bears, sex scandals, conflict of Interest... And what about their *actual views*? what is relevant?

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 92 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. When judging federal nominees, think about them compared to the likely next choice, not some ideal candidate. It’s about who is realistically in line for the job.
  2. Consider if the issues raised are criminal or if they relate to hypocrisy in their professional responsibilities. People should be held accountable for their job duties, not just personal lives.
  3. Look at their actual work and views. Those who are flexible in their opinions and bring ideas are often better than those sticking strictly to a party line.

The education of a DOGE brownshirt; Class Struggle, Elite Theory, and "Socialisms of Fools"

Unpopular Front • 63 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. The experience of political awakening can start from negative feelings about elite groups or government actions, often leading some individuals to adopt extreme ideologies. It's important to understand how these perspectives develop from personal experiences and societal influences.
  2. Antisemitism and other forms of racism often come from a structural viewpoint, portraying certain groups as controlling society for their benefit. This view isn't just about individual prejudice, but rather a deeper ideological belief that can be dangerous.
  3. The relationship between libertarian and fascist attacks on the liberal state showcases how these movements may share similar goals, focusing on dismantling perceived corruption while maintaining existing wealth and power structures.

Trump Whispering and Ukraine

Phillips’s Newsletter • 86 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. People are too hopeful about Trump’s new ideas on Ukraine. It's based more on wishes than what he actually says.
  2. We should pay attention to Trump’s actual statements about Ukraine to understand his real thoughts. His words now are not much different from what he said before the election.
  3. Some recent comments from Trump on Ukraine might be more serious than people think. It's important to really look at what he means.

Let's Talk About Union Busting Through Media Narratives

The 21st Century Proletarian • 59 implied HN points • 26 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Media often portrays workers fighting for their rights as villains, amplifying employer interests to create negative narratives against unions.
  2. Employers use divisive tactics to pit union members against non-union workers, fostering a false belief that their interests conflict.
  3. Growing union membership among workers is crucial to shifting the narrative, building solidarity, and empowering workers to advocate for fair treatment.

The Apex Predator Of Captured Science: Dr Robert Malone

Who is Robert Malone • 33 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🏥 Health Politics Media influence
  1. Dr. Robert Malone is seen as a threat to the established powers because he has in-depth knowledge of the medical and political systems, which makes him a strong opponent against misinformation.
  2. The media's response to Malone suggests they feel threatened by him, as they use tactics like character attacks instead of focusing on his credentials and contributions to science.
  3. It's important to critically evaluate information and media narratives, especially when there's a coordinated attack on someone, as this often signals that they pose a real challenge to the status quo.

Why I'm voting for Donald Trump, part 2

Unreported Truths • 94 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Voting for Trump might feel risky, but he has governed more moderately in the past than some people fear. He focused on tax cuts and conservative judges instead of extreme changes.
  2. The idea that Trump is an authoritarian may be overblown. Even if he pushes hard, he'll face strong pushback from both his opponents and the system, which can limit his power.
  3. The current political elite often pushes policies without much debate, which some voters see as dangerous. Supporting Trump might feel like a way to challenge this elite control over American politics.

Happy Election Day

Michael Tracey • 90 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Trump has a strong grip on the Republican Party, almost like no other leader in American history. His influence can change who wins primary elections and affects a lot of media.
  2. Many voters feel disconnected from the election and question if their vote even matters. A lot of these 'undecided voters' might actually lean towards Trump but are unsure about going to the polls.
  3. The debates between political figures, like Trump and Cheney, often lack real differences in policies. Voters see both parties struggling without clear, meaningful distinctions.

My Vapid Generation

Castalia • 139 implied HN points • 15 Nov 22
🎭️ Culture Media influence
  1. The internet changed how we communicate and share information, making it hard to escape its influence. People became obsessed with social media and online status, which reshaped our values and interactions.
  2. My generation was the first to really fall for these new technologies, often being too trusting and optimistic about their impact. As a result, we ended up being perfect subjects for this digital experiment.
  3. Looking back, we realize our lack of interest in history and important issues made us complacent. This led to an era where our choices and behaviors contributed to our own troubles in the digital world.

Have TikTok aesthetics replaced subcultures?

Default Wisdom • 177 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Media influence
  1. Aesthetic trends on platforms like TikTok do not necessarily replace individual personalities or subcultures; they can actually contribute to creating new subcultures.
  2. Online fandoms and digitally native subcultures are real and significant, even if they may not fit traditional ideas of what a subculture looks like.
  3. Algorithms play a big role in shaping what we see online, including aesthetics and trends, but they do not completely control our genuine interests and involvement in subcultures.

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 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.

It’s going to be A Week

Alex's Personal Blog • 65 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Trump's inauguration brings many expected executive orders. These include controversial policies like a large deportation program and ending birthright citizenship.
  2. There's a prediction that Waymo will soon take the lead over Uber in rides in major cities, indicating a shift in the ride-sharing landscape.
  3. Trump's entry into the crypto space with his own 'shitcoins' raises concerns about regulation and market integrity in the cryptocurrency industry.

Can a Graphic Novel Change Housing Policy?

Bet On It • 80 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media influence
  1. Graphic novels can influence important topics like housing policy. They make complex ideas easier to understand with visuals.
  2. Lower housing costs often get overlooked because people focus on less important concerns. It's important to address what truly matters.
  3. Using engaging media like podcasts can help share and discuss these ideas effectively with a wider audience.

The Synthetic Candidate

KERFUFFLE • 85 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. iPhones use a tricky method to take photos that aren't exactly real. They take many pictures, mix them, and make one that looks better overall.
  2. This way of taking pictures can make things look too perfect and normal, losing some special qualities that make photos unique.
  3. Similarly, the media is trying to make Kamala Harris look better by hiding her flaws, aiming for a polished image that people can accept, even if she's not the strongest candidate.

Our intelligentsia has abandoned our illiterati

Sex and the State • 58 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  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.

Online Censorship's Institutional Power

Mad at the Internet • 139 HN points • 16 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. There is a growing concern about powerful interests in technology and media that can control online content and silence dissent. People are worried that without organized action, the internet could become less free.
  2. The Kiwi Farms forum has shown how sharing information online can impact reputations significantly. When people share thoughts and stories freely, it can create lasting effects, especially on influential figures.
  3. The anti-censorship movements often lack coordination and resources compared to pro-censorship groups. This makes it hard for them to effectively combat censorship efforts that threaten open dialogue online.

A fuller response to your comments about Gaza and Israel (first of two parts)

Unreported Truths • 21 implied HN points • 29 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Israel is seen as a Middle Eastern country, not just a Western one. This means it's influenced by deeper tribal and emotional divides.
  2. The left in Israel has lost support because many voters feel it is out of touch with reality. A similar trend can be seen in the U.S. with the Democratic Party.
  3. Recent conflicts showed a shift in Israeli public opinion and deepened divides. The actions of Hamas led to a strong backlash and increased support for hardline politics in Israel.

On Saying No To Narcissism

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 07 Nov 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence
  1. Narcissism can be a strong advantage in society. People who are narcissistic often grab attention and twist situations to meet their own selfish goals.
  2. To deal with narcissists, it’s important to set boundaries and not get manipulated. Just like handling difficult children, it's about staying firm and not engaging in their games.
  3. Our culture often fails to learn from the dangers of narcissism. We need to develop qualities like self-restraint and the ability to look away from those who dominate public attention.