The hottest Philosophy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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NEW CULTURE

Less Foolish • 294 implied HN points • 01 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Hipsters were once seen as a counterculture but were later viewed as pretentious and vacuous, signaling the end of Western civilization.
  2. The rise of 'woke' culture, with its focus on social justice, led to a backlash and fatigue, prompting the search for a new culture beyond cancel culture.
  3. Leisure is seen as crucial for the emergence of a new culture, encouraging creativity, philosophical inquiry, and the formation of communal practices.

Philosophic Premises of Quantum Mechanics – Part II

Fields & Energy • 239 implied HN points • 19 Nov 23
🔬 Science Philosophy
  1. Quantum mechanics was influenced by ideas that questioned the existence of an objective reality. Some scientists believed that what we observe is just a statistical illusion rather than a definite state.
  2. Key figures like Heisenberg and Bohr argued against the law of causality, suggesting that atomic processes might not follow traditional cause-and-effect rules. They felt that understanding these processes could lead to contradictions.
  3. Attempts to create a causal theory in quantum mechanics faced strong opposition. Despite efforts from scientists like Schrödinger, the non-causal view became widely accepted due to its statistical predictions.

In artificial intelligence the world is always what we want it to be and it is so before we act.

World Game • 7 implied HN points • 27 Jan 26
🕹 Technology Philosophy
  1. AI functions as an external world-builder rather than just mimicking human thought, creating virtual realities that can stand in for the physical world.
  2. Digitally-native activities like software development and online commerce are easiest to automate, while tasks tied to historical contingency or embodied human contexts, such as law or healthcare, will be much harder to reproduce.
  3. Building these metaverse-like worlds will be a long, fragile process full of setbacks, attacks, and competition, and it risks producing polished, wish-fulfilling fictions that distance us from a shared reality.
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Nomen est Omen (repost)

Secretum Secretorum • 353 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. An aptronym is when someone's name fits their job really well, like Usain Bolt being the fastest runner. There are also inaptronyms, where the name is ironically related to the profession.
  2. Nominative determinism is the idea that a person's name might influence their career choices and how others see them. A catchy name can give someone more confidence and help them succeed.
  3. Names have a cultural impact and can reflect community values. Different cultures use names flexibly and humorously, shaping how individuals relate to themselves and others.

The poetry of the cosmos in two books

The Global Jigsaw • 198 implied HN points • 10 Jan 24
📚 Literature Philosophy
  1. 2023 was a year of introspection, focusing on what makes a life well lived and the beauty in the mundane.
  2. The rise of AI prompts questions about what it means to be human, highlighting the significance of emotional experiences and characteristics.
  3. Books by Maria Popova and Ted Chiang fuse science with poetry, exploring the beauty of the cosmos and the blend of rationality and emotionality.

Wisdom Of The Prophet

Weekly Wisdom • 119 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. Reading out loud can be a powerful and ancient practice, bringing words on a page to life with the breath and voice of the reader.
  2. Before silent reading became the norm, reading aloud was a communal activity performed in groups.
  3. Resurrecting the tradition of reading out loud to yourself can offer a unique and enriching experience, allowing you to savor the words and feel their impact.

Hidden Open Thread 351.5

Astral Codex Ten • 550 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. This is a post for paid subscribers only, so you need to subscribe to access the content.
  2. Readers are encouraged to engage and share their thoughts in the comments.
  3. The thread seems to be a place for open discussions and sharing various topics among subscribers.

Answers to Job

Bentham's Newsletter • 137 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. God's response to Job highlights the limitations of human knowledge and the complexity of theodicy.
  2. The argument discusses the idea that the sufferings and evils in the world might be outweighed by unknown afterlife goods.
  3. The dialogue challenges the notion that each evil in the world can be interpreted as evidence of an indifferent universe, emphasizing the presence of identity-affecting actions.

Western Life Is Only One Way to Live

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 145 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. The idea that Western civilization is the only way to live is just a myth. There are many different ways of life that exist across the world.
  2. Capitalism and a rigid social hierarchy are often seen as the inevitable outcome of civilization, but this isn't the only possibility. Many cultures have lived in ways that challenge these norms.
  3. The way people treat each other reflects their culture and values. Non-Western societies often had more egalitarian relationships, emphasizing community support instead of competition and greed.

God's an Infinity, Not a Trinity

Going Awol • 79 implied HN points • 12 Apr 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. The Love Argument for the Trinity suggests that God's triune nature can be logically supported by the concept of perfect love, which would require more than one divine person.
  2. The Love Argument overlooks the idea of love for large groups, like football teams or countries, which could indicate the need for an infinite number of divine persons in God's being.
  3. Considering the Love Argument, it may make more sense to view God as an Infinity of divine persons rather than strictly a Trinity, as the concept of love can extend beyond three persons.

There's no such thing as "machine learning."

Top Carbon Chauvinist • 19 implied HN points • 20 Jul 24
🕹 Technology Philosophy
  1. Machines don't really learn like humans do. They can take in data and improve performance, but they don't understand or experience learning in the same way we do.
  2. The term 'machine learning' can be misleading. It's more about machines mimicking learning processes rather than actually experiencing them.
  3. Understanding how machines operate helps clarify their limitations. They can process large amounts of information but lack conscious experience or true comprehension.

Three Thinking

David’s Substack • 79 implied HN points • 11 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Radio programming is changing to fit listener habits and tastes. Shows are moving between channels to stay fresh and relevant.
  2. Key presenters are being used for multiple shows, making it easier for listeners to connect with familiar voices. This aims to create a comforting and consistent listening experience.
  3. The BBC wants to shift towards an audience-controlled model. This means people will choose what they want to hear without worrying about which station it's on.

2.2 Early & Medieval Physics

Fields & Energy • 179 implied HN points • 27 Dec 23
💾 History Philosophy
  1. The Ptolemaic model explained how planets move in terms of circles and smaller orbits called epicycles. This model was clever, even though it was eventually replaced by simpler ideas in science.
  2. During the Middle Ages, many people thought that science was stuck, but some scholars made important contributions and kept the spirit of experimentation alive, especially figures like Albertus Magnus and Roger Bacon.
  3. The study of more complex shapes, like conic sections, was overlooked for a long time. Eventually, scholars at places like Oxford started to explore motion more deeply and share their findings across Europe.

Watering the garden

Austin Kleon • 1238 implied HN points • 06 May 22
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. It's important to take time to appreciate nature and nurture creativity. Just like watering a garden helps plants thrive, engaging with ideas can help us grow mentally.
  2. Reading various books and articles can offer new perspectives on money and culture. Exploring different viewpoints is a great way to expand your understanding.
  3. Connecting with others through interviews and shared experiences can inspire and motivate us. Listening to creative people share their journeys can spark new ideas for our own lives.

Here Be Dragons!

Fields & Energy • 239 implied HN points • 03 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Dragons symbolize power and temptation, representing the dangers of being seduced by false promises. They serve as a reminder of the fight between good and evil in our desires.
  2. Electromagnetism plays a crucial role in communication and technology, influencing how we receive and interpret information. This reflects the battle between freedom and control in today's world.
  3. Fiction can reveal truths about our reality, helping us understand complex ideas like morality and human nature. Stories like _Draco Alchemicus_ can shine a light on these deeper truths.

But desiring to justify himself, he said to Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"

Philosophy bear • 328 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. The Ordo Amoris suggests that love should prioritize those closest to us, like family, but this shouldn't justify neglecting others in need. We should still care for people outside our immediate circle.
  2. Christian teachings emphasize not just caring for our families, but also extending help universally, as true charity goes beyond just those we know or love.
  3. Arguments against charity often come from a misunderstanding of property rights; in reality, failing to help the needy can be seen as stealing from them, as the resources we have are meant to be shared.

Essence, Energies, and Excellence

Bentham's Newsletter • 137 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. The Eastern Orthodox distinguish God's essence from energies: essence is mysterious, energies are knowable.
  2. Different arguments suggest the simplicity of theism, like God being an unlimited agent or having limitless power.
  3. The essence/energies distinction can support the idea that God is fundamentally simple, explaining all attributes from a basic nature.

All that's old is new again

Disaffected Newsletter • 539 implied HN points • 04 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Older ideas and trends often come back into fashion. It's common to see things that are considered 'outdated' become popular again.
  2. Nostalgia plays a big part in why we embrace things from the past. People enjoy the comfort and memories associated with older styles.
  3. Recycling old concepts can lead to creativity. By mixing the old with the new, fresh ideas can emerge that resonate with different audiences.

The Origins of Deutsche Physik (1910s)

Cantor's Paradise • 363 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🔬 Science Philosophy
  1. The conflict in the physics community during the 1910s was largely about differing views on science and the influence of World War I. German physicists felt pressure to defend national pride while dealing with the rise of theoretical physics led by figures like Einstein.
  2. There was a significant clash between experimentalists and theorists, with older physicists struggling to accept new ideas. Many were uncomfortable with Einstein's theories because they felt too abstract and removed from traditional experimental methods.
  3. As political tensions grew, the conflict transformed into overt anti-Semitism, particularly targeting Einstein. Some physicists expressed nationalistic and racial ideologies, which later aligned with the Nazi agenda.

The Many Muses of Taylor Swift

Litverse • 259 implied HN points • 13 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Taylor Swift's art is deeply inspired by her relationships, turning her ex-partners into muses for her songs.
  2. Taylor Swift's ability to create a shared reality through her music on the theme of love resonates with a wide audience.
  3. In the world of popular art, artists like Taylor Swift offer a 'plane of illusion' where audiences can transcend individuality and escape fears while enjoying universal themes like love.

Writing Prompt: What movement does the world need right now?

The Novelleist • 412 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. We are facing a time of change and uncertainty, and we have opportunities to shape the future. It's a chance to creatively think about what the world needs right now.
  2. Writing is important, but taking action is also necessary. We should focus on building movements that align with the changes we want to see.
  3. There are many areas to explore for creating change, like politics, economics, or philosophy. We should brainstorm actionable ideas to make those changes happen.

Pathless Path as Accidental Antimeme | #301

Boundless by Paul Millerd • 150 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Some ideas are hard to spread and often stay in private conversations. These 'antimemes' might take longer to get noticed but can still have a deep impact on individuals.
  2. Going viral can sometimes seem appealing, but seeking broad attention often leads to simple answers that don't challenge deep thinking. It's better to focus on creating meaningful, nuanced content.
  3. Building genuine relationships and engaging in thoughtful discussions can be more valuable than chasing a large audience. Authentic connections help spread ideas more effectively over time.

Winning time

Austin Kleon • 1278 implied HN points • 01 Apr 22
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Spring is here, and it's a great time for outdoor activities like biking and reading. Enjoying the season can really boost your mood.
  2. Algorithms on social media can harm small businesses and affect how we communicate. It's good to own your own content and not rely too much on platforms.
  3. There are interesting discussions happening around the impact of games and how they influence our experiences. It's worth exploring different viewpoints on this topic.

Intrinsic Primacy: Consciousness, the Impetus of Man

Holodoxa • 259 implied HN points • 18 Jul 23
🔬 Science Philosophy
  1. Our consciousness and internal thoughts are essential to our human experience, leading to the question of where they originate in the brain.
  2. Neuroscience faces challenges in understanding consciousness, with the field needing a new paradigm to address the relationship between brain function and conscious experience.
  3. Different perspectives, such as intrinsic introspection and extrinsic scientific observation, have evolved through history, shaping how we view the world and ourselves.

The Pointlessness of Punk

Litverse • 259 implied HN points • 03 May 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Punk rock emerged as a rebellion against mainstream culture and conventional ideas, born in a decaying New York City in the late seventies.
  2. The authenticity of punk as a movement is questioned as its rebellious acts become mainstream and profitable, raising the issue of whether its purpose is lost amidst commercial success.
  3. The essence of punk lies in the performance, where the actions and symbolic gestures carry more weight than the individuals themselves, creating a form of rebellion that transcends traditional definitions.

Would John Locke Have Been Upset About the Israeli Couscous?

Philosophy for the People w/Ben Burgis • 179 implied HN points • 17 Dec 23
📖 Philosophy Philosophy
  1. John Locke's 'Letter Concerning Toleration' defends the rights of religious minorities, which is relevant in today's political climate.
  2. Locke's writing style in his letter includes an initial vague insinuation followed by a more developed argument, resembling a Twitter rant followed by deeper analysis.
  3. The post discusses how John Locke's work can be interpreted in modern contexts, providing a fresh perspective on historical texts.

Plagiarism: The philosophy, psychology and biology of why we don’t see eye to eye.

On Looking • 259 implied HN points • 14 Sep 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Philosophy
  1. Plagiarism is a significant issue in the creative industry, often going unnoticed or unpunished due to various factors like power imbalances and technological complexities.
  2. Our perception of images is influenced by a dynamic interplay of similarity and difference, with both forces being essential for creativity and artistic identity.
  3. Understanding plagiarism requires a multidisciplinary approach, considering philosophical, psychological, and biological perspectives on how people perceive and categorize similarities in creative works.

Bangers and Mash

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 414 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. The authors of The Hinternet are using pseudonyms for professional reasons and to create a unique writing style. Despite this, they promise clearer writing in the future.
  2. The publication plans to produce more popular essays, referred to as 'bangers', to meet economic needs and subscriber interests, even if the topics seem controversial.
  3. Readers are encouraged to engage more deeply by submitting essays on featured works, highlighting the community involvement in shaping the publication.

O-Day - Circle of life

Remote View • 255 implied HN points • 18 Feb 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. The concept of the Circle of Life encompasses the beginning and end connecting in a continuous cycle of life and death.
  2. Seeking truth and sharing knowledge is emphasized in ancient African Bauherren Masonic principles.
  3. The symbolism of the tilted 'O' on 10 Downing Street represents concepts like cosmic organization, divine word, force, capacity, and power.

The Everlasting Man

The Abbey of Misrule • 460 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. Humans are more than just another animal species. We have a unique role on Earth that sets us apart.
  2. Christianity is different from other religions because its founding story is about God becoming human and actively engaging in our world.
  3. The Church is important because it represents a revolution against worldly values, and history shows that Christianity has survived and reborn many times.

Why I'm voting for the voice

De Pony Sum • 255 implied HN points • 17 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Philosophy
  1. Making an honest effort to persuade is important in advancing ideas.
  2. Indigenous people in Australia face significant challenges like lower income, shorter life expectancy, and overrepresentation in the prison population.
  3. Supporting The Voice referendum in Australia can help draw attention to indigenous issues and bring about progress.

Freud and the Beatles

In My Tribe • 440 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Sigmund Freud had a huge impact on how we view ourselves, and even those who reject his ideas still carry some of his influence. It's hard to imagine our culture without him.
  2. The Beatles changed their music style after 1965 and became more complex, which helped them stay relevant. If they hadn't evolved, they might not have had the same lasting impact on music.
  3. The Beatles influenced popular culture in various ways, from hairstyles to attitudes towards drugs and spirituality. Their actions and style helped spread the hippie culture much wider than it would have gone on its own.

Announcements – November 2024

The Upheaval • 455 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. A dialogue with Freya India is now available for free, so you can share it with others who might enjoy it.
  2. Recently, a great gathering in the Catskills brought together interesting people for discussions and good times, and there are opportunities to join similar events in the future.
  3. A book proposal expanding 'The China Convergence' is underway, and the author is looking for potential publishers to bring it to life.

10 books of women's awakenings: nonfiction

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 758 implied HN points • 24 May 22
📚 Literature Philosophy
  1. Reading books that showcase women breaking boundaries and embracing change can inspire personal growth and empowerment.
  2. Exploring nonfiction literature can provide insights into hidden societal norms that suppress women, prompting reflection and action for change.
  3. Books that focus on feminist ecology and the connection between women and nature can foster a deeper understanding of strength and interconnectedness.