The hottest Personal Identity Substack posts right now

Being nice can sometimes feel fake or unhelpful. It’s okay to be blunt and honest instead.
People often pressure others to act nicer, but that can be annoying and counterproductive.
Being candid and direct can create real connections, even if it makes some people uncomfortable.

Social media algorithms influence our tastes by showing us similar things repeatedly, which can make our preferences less personal and more generic. Instead of discovering unique experiences, we often end up picking places that are popular online.
The rise of these algorithms leads to a homogenization of culture, where everyone likes the same music, wears similar clothes, and follows the same trends. This makes our experiences and choices feel less special and diverse.
To combat this, it's important to seek out personal experiences and make choices based on curiosity and spontaneity, rather than popularity. Trying new things and exploring without reliance on online reviews can lead to more memorable and meaningful moments.

Cultural images that have a short-lived impact can still influence us today
Our sense of self is influenced by our connection to the past and future
Living in the 'eternal now' can lead to challenges in decision-making and planning for the future

Agnes Callard faced backlash for asking if it's better to suffer blamelessly than to live a nice life doing something morally horrifying.
Critics questioned the timing and format of Callard's poll on slavery, suggesting it was inappropriate or limiting choices.
Ayn Rand supporters like Gregory Salmieri criticized Callard's hypothetical scenario for being disconnected from actionable situations.

Substance Dualism posits that humans are made of two distinct substances - body and soul. The soul is considered the essential part that defines who we are.
One objection to Substance Dualism questions how an immaterial soul, if essential, can be touched. A philosophical dialogue illustrating this objection is discussed.
The objection is refuted through a clever dialogue between a Substance Dualist and someone who believes we are only bodies, highlighting linguistic nuances in how we perceive physical interactions.

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The word 'follower' is important today because it shapes how we see social media and the people we follow. It can mean being part of a group or just going along with what others do.
Following someone online can go deeper than just liking their posts. It can be about looking for meaning or connection, similar to a journey of belief or personal growth.
As society changes, people might form smaller, more personal groups or communities instead of sticking to one big idea or belief. This can lead to a mix of different views on what is truly important in life.

Transhumanism does not require immortality, but it is compatible with it
Different types of immortality exist, such as biological immortality, superimmortality, and hyperimmortality
Avoiding the term 'immortality' in transhumanism can help prevent negative connotations and encourage a focus on defeating aging and biological death

Writing can be like having a conversation. It doesn't always need to be polished, and expressing thoughts freely can be powerful.
People are more than just their online brands. Writing should allow for different sides of a person, rather than just fitting into one narrow identity.
The traditional media is changing. Anyone can share their ideas online, making room for more honest perspectives, even if the concept of objectivity becomes more complicated.

A new newsletter called Revoluciana is starting on a different platform, and subscribers will automatically be included unless they unsubscribe.
The author reflects on their journey, noting that writing has helped them connect with others and share experiences during their transition.
In the new newsletter, expect topics about power, queerness, and activism, delivered in a more direct and irreverent style than before.

The concept of the experience machine questions the idea of a fulfilling life based solely on pleasure.
Many reject the idea of being plugged into an experience machine for life, but some are in favor.
Contemporary society shows a trend of overinvestment in virtual experiences at the expense of real relationships and projects.