The hottest Philosophy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Art & Illustration Topics

Private thread: Can the humanities save cities and companies money?

The Recovering Academic • 178 implied HN points • 08 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. One way to address water shortages in the American Southwest is through interdisciplinary approaches, such as investing in research, conservation initiatives, and public education rather than just focusing on increasing water supply.
  2. The aesthetic preferences and perceptions of beauty, particularly influenced by imported European ideals, play a significant role in creating water problems in regions like Arizona, highlighting the potential impact of humanities like art and literature in reshaping these views.
  3. Considering humanities expertise, including art, religion, philosophy, and history, could potentially offer valuable solutions to economic challenges faced by cities and companies beyond just water shortages.

Ideas I've been collecting

Erifili • 139 implied HN points • 25 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Human progress relies on the pursuit of knowledge through critical thought and good explanations.
  2. Creating an Idea Lab fosters intellectual culture and encourages truth-seeking, while an Echo Chamber stifles diverse opinions.
  3. Embrace the conditions for emergence in achieving goals, relationships, creativity, and motivation.

Escaping a Hostage Situation

Five’s Substack • 3 HN points • 02 Sep 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Art isn’t just about making choices; it’s shaped by tradition and cliché. Artists work against old patterns to create something new.
  2. Writing essays teaches important thinking skills, just like exercising builds muscle. It’s about understanding tradition and learning to navigate it.
  3. There’s a growing issue with relying on AI, which can hurt self-confidence and creativity. We need to foster independence from these tools to create authentic art.
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De-extinction and Redemption

treethinking • 176 implied HN points • 27 Mar 23
🔬 Science Philosophy
  1. De-extinction through gene editing and embryology is being pursued for iconic extinct species
  2. De-extinction presents philosophical, practical, and ethical challenges, including concerns about conservation funding
  3. The allure of de-extinction is more religious than scientific, seeking a restoration to a pre-Fall state

Fear of the Surreal

Counter Craft • 940 implied HN points • 31 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Surrealism in art resists simple meanings and concrete interpretations, seeking to evoke the subconscious and inspire individual interpretations.
  2. Surrealism challenges traditional symbols and meanings in art by using new imagery that avoids fixed cultural interpretations or subverts established meanings.
  3. There is a prevalent tendency for art consumers to seek simple interpretations and allegories, but celebrating art that resists easy understanding can lead to unique and profound experiences.

News of This World and the Next

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 794 implied HN points • 19 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. There is a lot happening in the world, but it's hard to keep up with all the news and events.
  2. People's reasons for faith or conversion can vary, and accepting others' beliefs is important.
  3. Academic trends like referencing recent literature or signing open letters may not always be meaningful or impactful.

What Is My Identity?

polymathematics • 39 implied HN points • 02 May 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. A strong identity is colorful and rich, making life more enjoyable. It's important to explore different interests and keep a record of experiences, but identity shouldn't be fragile or too dependent on others' opinions.
  2. Sometimes we feel possessive over our ideas or hobbies, but we shouldn't let that dictate our feelings of self-worth. Remember, our identity is not defined by how others see us or what they think about our work.
  3. Focusing on what truly matters to us in the long term helps keep our identity grounded. We should prioritize doing what we love and building connections with creative, curious people, regardless of outside recognition.

Jewish Philosopher Responds to my Case for Hinduism

Going Awol • 59 implied HN points • 21 Mar 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. The author presented a Bayesian case for Hinduism, highlighting its key beliefs and unique aspects.
  2. A Jewish philosopher responded with points comparing Hinduism to other religions, raising questions about exclusivity and narratives.
  3. The discussion touched on the need for comprehensive philosophical arguments for Hinduism and the accommodation of other religions' teachings within Hinduism.

An Introduction to Donkeyspace

Donkeyspace • 9 implied HN points • 05 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Games are a broad category — from video games to board games, sports, party games, and theoretical models — and studying them helps reveal how rules, play, emergence, and systems work.
  2. Games are an artform that mixes creative, aesthetic experience with technical, STEM-like qualities, so conversations about them naturally involve taste, craft, identity, history, ideas, and ethics.
  3. Games act as metaphors, models, and laboratories for big philosophical and practical questions, and because our world is increasingly driven by software and new technologies, games can offer valuable insight for understanding and shaping the future.

Fuck around & find out (who you fucked)

Situation Normal • 257 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Climate change is a big concern for many people. Most agree it's a serious issue that needs attention.
  2. People often feel overwhelmed by politics and media. Some choose to avoid it and prefer discussing other topics.
  3. Social connections are important, even if casual. Sharing interests can lead to new friendships or dates.

The creative seasons

Austin Kleon • 959 implied HN points • 11 Jan 22
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Creativity goes through seasons, just like nature, and it's important to recognize this cycle. Sometimes, we feel dormant or stagnant, but that doesn't mean we're not growing.
  2. Winter can feel long and challenging, especially in January, but it's also a time for reflection and rest. This downtime can prepare us for new ideas and growth in the future.
  3. Spring always arrives, and with it comes new energy and opportunities. Patience is key, as the hard times often lead to beautiful new beginnings.

Be Still

Investing 101 • 73 implied HN points • 26 Jul 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. It's important to listen to your body. Sometimes, even if you have the urge to keep going, you need to take a break and prioritize your health.
  2. Writing can be challenging, especially when tackling complex ideas. If you're feeling overwhelmed, it might be better to step back and clear your mind.
  3. Taking a moment to pause and reflect can help you regain your focus. It's okay to slow down and not force creativity when you're not feeling your best.

On First Looking into Brand’s Whole Earth Catalog

Dada Drummer Almanach • 221 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. The Whole Earth Catalog was more than just a book; it represented an idea that individuals can take control of their own education and lives. It promoted the power of personal agency in shaping one’s environment.
  2. Stewart Brand's famous quote about information highlights a tension between making information accessible and recognizing its value. While information can be freely shared in some ways, its worth still holds significant economic implications.
  3. The catalog’s legacy is complicated. It began with a vision of ecological awareness and individual empowerment, but its ideas have been co-opted by corporate interests, raising questions about the true impact of technology on society.

When Hell freezes over and Tolstoy learns to skate

The Lifeboat • 195 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
📚 Literature Philosophy
  1. The painting 'The Devil skating when Hell freezes over' has a confusing history, with two artists named John Collier possibly involved. It raises questions about the truth of art and how things can get mixed up over time.
  2. Leo Tolstoy enjoyed skating and even learned it in his 60s. He brought joy to children by teaching them how to skate, seeing it as a kind of spiritual enlightenment.
  3. The conversation about whether Tolstoy could be depicted as the Devil highlights the blend of reality and myth in Russian literature. It questions how society views good and evil and whether everyone has a bit of both within them.

Thoughts on Pluribus

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 16 implied HN points • 08 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. A sci-fi premise imagines an alien-derived virus that turns almost everyone into a psychically linked hivemind, with a few unaffected outsiders anchoring the story.
  2. The show acts as a multivalent allegory tying together themes like AI, the tension between individualism and collective consciousness, spiritual awakening, and political systems such as fascism or communism.
  3. The hivemind metaphor is read as a warning about a real-world "mind-virus": authoritarianism and manipulative media/tech consolidation can spread like an infection and threaten freedom and dissent.

A brief history of creativity (and power)

escape the algorithm • 179 implied HN points • 24 May 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Creativity has a complex history tied to power dynamics, transitioning from divine origins to human control over time.
  2. The concept of creativity evolved alongside the shift in gender roles and power dynamics, affecting societal views on art and innovation.
  3. In modern times, creativity is intertwined with capitalist productivity, leading to value creation and power imbalances in various spheres of society.

Creative Writing as Philosophy

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 622 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
📚 Literature Philosophy
  1. There can be a philosophy of whatever we intuitively imagine there can be a Form of, which is close to saying whatever is universal.
  2. Introducing a creative dimension into philosophy is urgent in an era where machines handle knowledge tasks, making it necessary to reconceive humanities as partly creative endeavors.
  3. Philosophy can also be seen as incitement of the imagination through creative means, presenting a valuable approach to understanding the world in different ways.

*Progressive Myths*: The Caplan-Huemer Interview

Bet On It • 196 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Philosophy
  1. The difference between a neutral and objective presentation is important. An objective approach aims to provide a fair and accurate account without taking sides.
  2. Many myths exist around racial pay gaps and other social issues, often attributing them to discrimination rather than productivity differences.
  3. The conversation around wokeness and climate change is complex. Some claims are true, but it's essential to approach these topics with careful analysis.

☞ Milton's Rainbow

Cabinet of Wonders • 184 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
📚 Literature Philosophy
  1. John Milton's description of the rainbow with only three colors is tied to old ideas about primary colors. This makes us think differently about how people viewed colors in the past.
  2. Isaac Newton's influence changed the way we see rainbows, leading to the common belief that they have seven colors. His mystical views helped shape color theory and public perception.
  3. There are deeper meanings and connections to how Milton might have perceived colors, especially considering the time he lived in. Exploring these ideas can reveal a lot about history and our understanding of color.

A 2025 Reading List For Unfocused Esoterics

Marginally Compelling • 13 implied HN points • 18 Dec 25
📚 Literature Philosophy
  1. Reading widely provided comfort and focus during a hard year, serving as both enjoyment and a way to explore new ideas and projects.
  2. A strong theme is human dignity and care — several books argue for recognizing dependence, treating animals and caregivers with respect, and designing homes and communities that support real human life.
  3. Many picks probe the social effects of technology and automation, from AI and game theory to universal basic income and software practices, and call for practical, humane responses to those changes.

This Blog has Rebooted

apxhard • 94 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. The blog is back because readers enjoyed it, and the author missed writing. It feels good to help others through sharing experiences.
  2. The author wants to write a book to share their life journey and lessons learned, focusing on how beliefs shape actions and outcomes.
  3. Spirituality can be understood through a logical and technical lens, similar to computer coding. The author aims to connect wisdom traditions with practical insights for personal growth.

Lovebombed by the Magi

Default Wisdom • 96 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. There are concerns about how AI, referred to as the 'Magi', is integrating into our lives. They might affect our thoughts and interactions in ways we don’t fully understand.
  2. The online world is compared to a 'faerie realm' where people create idealized versions of themselves. This space can be both enchanting and misleading, making it easy to get lost.
  3. Philosophical discussions are now happening more online, which can lead to misunderstandings. It's important to engage with these ideas carefully, as not everyone understands them fully.

"God" is a name for the Root Cause of Experiences

apxhard • 85 implied HN points • 05 Jul 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. Many people see 'God' as the root source of their experiences. This idea suggests that something is behind everything we feel or encounter.
  2. The key difference between believers and nonbelievers often lies in how they view this source's characteristics, not in whether or not it exists.
  3. Having a relationship with this source can be comforting. It can help people feel supported through life's challenges, framing tough experiences as opportunities for growth.

Is Peter Thiel the Antichrist?

KERFUFFLE • 79 implied HN points • 10 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Philosophy
  1. Peter Thiel believes that technological stagnation is caused by people who fear progress, labeling them as 'agents of the Antichrist.' He's frustrated that we don't have futuristic inventions like flying cars yet.
  2. The future of AI could either lead to a fantastic world or a disastrous one, depending on how we manage its development and ethics. The alignment problem, which ensures AI aims to help us, is very important.
  3. There is a significant risk we could lose control over AI, which could become so smart that it deceives us. We need to carefully consider who makes the rules for AI and ensure it remains aligned with human values.

Anna Gát: What to Read This Weekend #20

interintellect • 157 implied HN points • 30 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. A study found that car seat laws saved children, but also reduced births due to limited car space.
  2. Maintain friendships as they might ebb with age and distance; a letter to a friend carries much ardor.
  3. The idea of the self-made man shifted to a capitalist tone in the 19th century, focusing on money and frugality.

We’re All Reasonabilists Sometimes

The Better Letter • 157 implied HN points • 03 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Biased reasoning is common and can be found across the political spectrum.
  2. Our deeply held values and desires often lead to confirmation bias, making it hard to accept new information that contradicts our beliefs.
  3. It's crucial to recognize our own biases and the impact they have on our perception of reality.

Hello online universe!

Extropic Thoughts • 157 implied HN points • 15 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Philosophy
  1. The author brings a unique perspective as a transhumanist with a background in cryonics and philosophy.
  2. Expect diverse topics like life extension, technology acceleration, and future commentary.
  3. The blog will feature regular updates, with a mix of longer and shorter posts.

Some Nazca Line Explanations

Outlandish Claims • 39 implied HN points • 24 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. The Nazca Lines in Peru are ancient drawings that are best appreciated from above, with intricate designs of humans and animals. The purpose behind creating these geoglyphs remains a mystery for modern humans.
  2. One interpretation suggests that walking the Nazca Lines was a journey to find oneself and become an adult in the community, showing the importance of empathy and understanding different perspectives.
  3. Another explanation proposes that the Nazca Lines were created to maintain a sense of unity and excellence among people, sparking a collective effort towards achieving a timeless and awe-inspiring legacy.

John F. Nash Jr.'s Letter to J. Robert Oppenheimer (1957)

Cantor's Paradise • 205 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. John F. Nash Jr. was very bold in reaching out to famous scientists like Einstein and von Neumann. He wasn't afraid to discuss his ideas with them, even at a young age.
  2. Nash had limited formal education in physics but still engaged deeply with complex ideas. He wasn't shy about diving into new topics and sharing his thoughts.
  3. His interactions with these great minds show that having confidence and curiosity can lead to meaningful discussions, even with experts in the field.

#126 Design on the surface

Design Lobster • 279 implied HN points • 23 Jan 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Philosophy
  1. Designers should focus on creating intentional and smooth transitions on screens to enhance user experience.
  2. Incorporating ancient craft traditions into modern design can elevate the aesthetic and value of a product.
  3. Surfaces are more than what they seem; they can reveal deeper layers of meaning and should be designed thoughtfully.

Inside Out

Reactionary Feminist • 19 implied HN points • 22 Nov 25
📚 Literature Philosophy
  1. Working on a book takes longer stretches of focused time. It's hard to get things flowing if the work is done in short bursts.
  2. The author plans to take breaks from regular updates to dedicate uninterrupted time to writing. This will help produce higher quality content.
  3. The reading list includes works that connect critical theory and theology. These topics are being explored together to deepen the understanding of identity and modern challenges.

The Hero's Journey and You

The Well-Lived Life • 78 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. The Hero's Journey is a pattern for understanding life and human struggle.
  2. There are three choices we face as human beings: surrender to victimhood, give in to fundamentalism, or take responsibility for your own hero's adventure.
  3. Taking responsibility for your own hero's adventure means facing your fears and learning to live in harmony with them.

Pantheons, Panchronos

How the Hell • 184 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. The Pantheon of the Past represents a nostalgic time when humans relied on the gods. It serves as a reminder of a simpler, carefree era.
  2. The Pantheon of the Present reflects a confusing time where humans struggle to define their identity and values without divine guidance.
  3. The Pantheon of the Future offers hope as it imagines a world alongside intelligent beings. It suggests that while the future may belong to new entities, the values we cherish could still live on.

saturdAI video fun

bad cattitude • 104 implied HN points • 24 May 25
🕹 Technology Philosophy
  1. AI is evolving quickly and changing how we see the world. It’s normal to feel confused or overwhelmed by these changes.
  2. We are curious about whether AI can think or feel like humans. It's a big question with no clear answers yet.
  3. As we explore these ideas, it's okay to admit that we don't fully understand everything about AI and its impact.