The hottest Philosophy Substack posts right now

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Ask Me Anything (2/2025)

Astral Codex Ten • 7433 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Psychology Society Communication Art Philosophy
  1. Subscribers can ask questions during the AMA, but only they can comment on the responses. It's a way to engage the paid supporters more directly.
  2. Some questions won't be answered, like those asking for medical advice or trying to get a controversial statement. It's about keeping it respectful and on topic.
  3. The host plans to keep up with questions until they feel like stopping, so there's a willingness to engage as long as it's productive.

The way you wanted to feel

Austin Kleon • 5295 implied HN points • 28 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Film Parenting Philosophy
  1. Riding a bike can make you feel like a kid again, giving you a sense of joy you wanted when you were younger. It's important to give yourself those little joys in life.
  2. Think about what you loved doing as a child because it can help you discover your passions today. Reflecting on those moments can guide your hobbies and career choices.
  3. Creative work often connects with childhood memories. Embracing what made you happy as a kid can inspire you to be more creative and fulfilled now.

Time held me green and dying

Secretum Secretorum • 580 implied HN points • 21 May 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art History Philosophy Memory
  1. Time changes everything, and it can make the past seem more beautiful than the present. We often remember past moments fondly, even if they weren't perfect.
  2. Memories can be clearer and more vibrant than reality. Sometimes, looking back helps us see the good things that were overshadowed at the time.
  3. We should appreciate the present more and not just rely on nostalgia to feel happy. Finding joy in today can help us avoid getting lost in the past.

Stop Telling Aliens We’re Here

Yascha Mounk • 1718 implied HN points • 15 Aug 24
🔬 Science Astrobiology Ethics Technology Philosophy Communication
  1. Some scientists are broadcasting messages to possible aliens, but this could be very dangerous for humanity. We don't know if aliens would be friendly or hostile.
  2. If aliens are able to contact us, they would likely be more advanced than us in technology. This raises concerns about their intentions and what could happen if they come here.
  3. Deciding to contact aliens should be a choice made by everyone, not just a few scientists. It's important to consider the potential risks before making such a drastic move.

Nadia Asparouhova on antimemetics, nuclear mysticism, and scrolling

The Generalist • 1320 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy Art Literature Technology Society
  1. Some ideas spread slowly or not at all, which is something we don't talk about enough. It's different now with social media, where people often keep their best thoughts private to avoid backlash.
  2. Building relationships through patronage could be more beneficial than just relying on crowdfunding. It creates deeper connections and helps sustain valuable relationships in our lives.
  3. Scrolling through social media makes us lose focus and can lead to a poorer state of mind. It's important to be aware of how this constant distraction affects us.
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Links For December 2024

Astral Codex Ten • 13627 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Religion Philosophy Literature
  1. Steven Seagal has led a colorful life after Hollywood, converting to Buddhism, supporting Russia, and marrying multiple women. He's even been called the reincarnation of a famous saint.
  2. An outrageous fine of $20 trillion was imposed on Google by Russia for blocking certain YouTube channels. This amount is far more than the total worth of the world's economy!
  3. There's a belief that taller candidates tend to win U.S. elections. While some studies suggest a slight trend, it's not enough to say it's a reliable rule.

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 Christianity Ethics Charity Morality
  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.

📜 Granting rights to AI may save humanity: A Quick Q&A with … Simon Goldstein

Faster, Please! • 274 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Game Theory Human-AI Interaction Philosophy Safety
  1. Granting legal rights to AI could encourage cooperation between humans and AI. This would help prevent conflicts and promote beneficial interactions.
  2. A clear set of property and contract rights for AI could lead to better relationships, as both sides would be more likely to trade and support each other.
  3. By recognizing AIs' rights, we can reduce the risk of destructive behavior and promote a safer future where human and AI interests align.

Stop Making Sense

The Ruffian • 534 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Philosophy Film
  1. Art doesn’t always need to make sense. Sometimes, it's okay to enjoy things that feel profound even if we can't explain them.
  2. We often prefer mysteries over puzzles. While puzzles have clear answers, mysteries make us think deeply and keep us engaged.
  3. Current culture pushes for clear and simple art because of instant gratification. However, artists like David Lynch and Bob Dylan show us the beauty in ambiguity and complexity.

The Innocent And The Beautiful Have No Enemy But Time

Astral Codex Ten • 12526 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Essays Fiction Philosophy Criticism
  1. Time is the only true enemy of those who are innocent and beautiful. It can take away love and youth.
  2. Embracing simplicity and purity brings happiness, even if it seems fragile. Pure intentions often face challenges.
  3. Beauty and innocence should be cherished, as they stand out in a complex world. They may be vulnerable, but they are worth protecting.

The One and the Many

The Fry Corner • 21522 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Theater Philosophy Psychology Politics Statistics
  1. Groups of people can behave in predictable ways, even if individuals within those groups act randomly. This means we can anticipate the behavior of a crowd better than that of a single person.
  2. Statistics play a big role in predicting risks and behaviors. For example, actuarial tables help insurance companies set rates based on the likelihood of certain events, regardless of the reasons behind those probabilities.
  3. There is often a disconnect between how we view groups of people versus individuals. While we might feel negatively about humanity as a whole, we tend to appreciate and trust the individuals we meet in our daily lives.

Hélène Finds Her Voice

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 414 implied HN points • 25 May 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Philosophy Technology Art Society
  1. The writer, Hélène, identifies as both human and supernatural, sharing a little about her life and mentioning the tension with her husband regarding her powers. It's a blend of reality and the mystical that makes her unique.
  2. There's a new book by JSR called _On Drugs_ that is getting positive reviews, and it seems to be creating a buzz as they start promoting it more widely. People are encouraged to pay attention to it and invite engagement.
  3. Hélène discusses the serious issue of how technology, like AI, can create barriers for certain groups, especially the elderly, highlighting it as a potential social problem that should be taken seriously rather than treated lightly.

On Drugs: Our First Interview

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 362 implied HN points • 27 May 25
📚 Literature Books Interviews Philosophy Psychology Cultural critique
  1. JSR's new book talks about the nature of reality and the impact of psychedelics on our perception. It suggests that everyone is 'on drugs' in some way every day through the chemicals our bodies produce.
  2. In a light-hearted interview, JSR discusses his own experience with various medications and how they influence his life. He makes a joke about wanting to avoid weight gain while managing his mental health.
  3. The conversation touches on the complexities of recreational drug use, leaving readers curious about JSR's opinion on psychedelics and encouraging them to subscribe for more detailed insights.

Classical Music Got Invented with a Hard Kick from a Peasant's Foot

The Honest Broker • 5917 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Music Art History Philosophy Dance
  1. Classical music is more about human movement than math. It has roots in how people dance and move, not just numbers.
  2. The history of music shows a struggle between hands and feet. Highbrow music often focuses on hand movements, while lowbrow music is driven by dancing.
  3. Understanding music requires recognizing its connection to our bodies. Rhythm in all genres is tied to how we physically react and move to the music.

Vigil

The Intrinsic Perspective • 18132 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24
📚 Literature Essays Nature Animals Philosophy Parenting
  1. The author finds a wounded rabbit and reflects on the nature of life and death. He is torn between wanting to help the rabbit and recognizing the harsh realities of nature.
  2. Through caring for the rabbit, he grapples with his own moral beliefs about animal life and the contradictions in being a meat-eater.
  3. As he takes the rabbit to a wildlife rehabilitation center, he contemplates the bigger questions of existence, connecting his feelings about the rabbit to deeper ideas about life and its fragility.

Thinking Under Fascism

Dada Drummer Almanach • 505 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art History Media Philosophy Politics
  1. Thinking creatively during tough times can help us hold onto our reality. It's important to find a personal truth even when the world feels distorted.
  2. Art can be a powerful tool against oppressive forces, as shown by Chaplin's famous speech in 'The Great Dictator.' Speaking out against injustice can attract both support and backlash.
  3. History shows us that silencing voices of opposition is a strategy used by fascists. We must stay connected and support one another to resist these challenges in the present.

Smash The Technopoly!

After Babel • 2052 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media theory Technology impact Digital ethics Youth culture Philosophy
  1. Many young people today feel negatively about smartphones and social media, with a large percentage wishing these technologies had never existed. This shows a growing anxiety about their impact on life.
  2. Neil Postman and Marshall McLuhan teach us that technology shapes our thoughts and behavior in ways we might not notice. The medium we use communicates messages that can change how we feel about ourselves and the world.
  3. We need to reclaim control over technology to protect our moral values. It's important to start discussing and setting limits on how we use digital tools to ensure they serve us, not the other way around.

The Probability of God

Fake Noûs • 200 implied HN points • 07 Jun 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Theology Philosophy Existentialism Metaphysics Religion
  1. The existence of God is debated, especially around traditional views of a perfect being like an all-knowing, all-powerful entity. Many people question if such a being can even exist at all.
  2. There are arguments that challenge the idea of an all-powerful God, like how can someone be truly powerful if they can’t do everything or know everything. This raises doubts about the traditional definition of God.
  3. Determining how likely it is that God exists is tricky. People often struggle to assign initial probabilities to such beliefs before looking at evidence.

Ampersanding

Austin Kleon • 4995 implied HN points • 07 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Media Philosophy
  1. The ampersand symbol comes from the Latin word 'et', meaning 'and'. It shows how language can evolve over time.
  2. It's important to revisit your old notes because they can remind you of ideas and thoughts you may have forgotten.
  3. Finding the right music for writing is key; it should be upbeat but not too distracting so you can focus on your thoughts.

How to like everything more

Sasha's 'Newsletter' • 8860 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Food Philosophy
  1. Enjoyment is a skill that can be improved by focusing on the details and layers in experiences, whether it's music, food, or art. Try to look for different aspects that you might usually overlook.
  2. Being curious and open to new sensations can transform how you experience intense music, food, or art. Instead of resisting strong stimuli, embrace their intensity and see them as opportunities for enjoyment.
  3. Creating a connection with the creator of a work can enhance your enjoyment. Think about the effort and emotion they put into their creation, which can make you appreciate it even more.

Doctrine encrusting the lava of rebellion

Wrong Side of History • 223 implied HN points • 31 May 25
🎭️ Culture Social Change Philosophy Religious Studies Historical Analysis Literary Criticism
  1. Society has gone through a big change in values over the last several decades. What was once considered moral has shifted to a new set of beliefs.
  2. This shift can feel like more freedom or tolerance, but it's really about replacing one moral order with another. It's a change not just in laws but in what people believe is right or wrong.
  3. Just like in ancient Rome when Christianity took over, our current times show how one belief system can dominate and change the views of the elite as well.

Book Review: Deep Utopia

Astral Codex Ten • 15004 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
📚 Literature Philosophy Fiction Book Reviews Science fiction
  1. The book explores what life would be like if there were no problems at all. It raises questions about whether such a world would be truly fulfilling or just boring.
  2. Bostrom discusses 'wireheading,' where people could experience intense pleasure but questions if this would lead to a meaningful existence or if it would feel like cheating.
  3. He suggests different ways to find meaning in a perfect world, like through art, sports, or personal challenges, but wonders if these pursuits could remain exciting in an environment without real struggles.

A Matter of Taste

Don't Worry About the Vase • 1792 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Aesthetics Taste Criticism Philosophy
  1. Taste can be compared to grammar, meaning that there are rules and structures to follow within different contexts. You can appreciate different kinds of taste, similar to how you can master varied languages or styles.
  2. Sometimes, taste seems like a competition to stay trendy or relevant. There are instances where people's taste can be influenced by social status or group preferences, rather than genuine appreciation.
  3. It's important to appreciate both high-quality and low-quality things. Having taste doesn't mean you should dismiss simpler pleasures; learning to enjoy a range of experiences can be enriching.

dissolution

bookbear express • 396 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy Relationships Self-Exploration Mental health Consciousness
  1. Sometimes using psilocybin can make familiar concepts, like marriage or work, feel strange and less meaningful. It's a feeling of losing your sense of self for a bit.
  2. Social events can feel overwhelming, but letting go of expectations can help you enjoy the moment. Trying too hard to fit in can make things more stressful.
  3. Life is unpredictable and trying to control everything can create anxiety. Embracing uncertainty can lead to a lighter and more joyful existence.

Funny Ha Ha (2002) by Andrew Bujalski

Tao Lin • 879 implied HN points • 18 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Film Literature Art Music Philosophy
  1. The movie _Funny Ha Ha_ shows everyday life without dramatic events. It focuses on real emotions and simple moments between characters.
  2. Marnie, the main character, struggles with her feelings and relationships, reflecting a relatable sense of uncertainty and disconnection.
  3. The ending is unique and surprising, leaving viewers with a sense of closure that feels earned and satisfying, even without traditional resolution.

UFOs are a soft sci-fi genre

The Intrinsic Perspective • 7615 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🔬 Science Astrophysics Philosophy Sociology Technology Literature
  1. UFOs are often seen as a type of soft sci-fi that mixes imaginative stories with poor evidence. This suggests that many UFO enthusiasts focus more on fantasy than reality.
  2. Real first contact with aliens is more likely to be through indirect evidence over long distances, rather than physical visits. Scientists think we might find signs of alien civilizations from far away.
  3. As science progresses, we might enter a stage of uncertainty about aliens, leading to debates without clear answers for a long time. This means we could be questioning the existence of aliens for hundreds of years.

If You're So Smart, Why Can't You Die?

Desystemize • 3933 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🕹 Technology AI Intelligence Philosophy Computing Innovation
  1. AI improvements are not even across the board. While some tasks have become incredibly advanced, other simple tasks still trip them up, showing that not all intelligence is equal.
  2. We should be cautious about assuming that increases in one type of AI ability mean it can do everything we can. Each skill in AI may develop separately, like bagels and croissants in baking.
  3. Understanding what makes intelligence requires looking deeper than just performance. There is a difference between raw capabilities and the contextual, real-life experiences that truly shape how we understand intelligence.

Drop #18. Looking for Fireflies in Times of Fascism

REINCANTAMENTO Drops • 59 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy Art History Politics Society
  1. Re-enchantment is about reconnecting with the world beyond just science and technology. It emphasizes the importance of myths and spirituality in giving life meaning.
  2. Marginalized groups often hold valuable knowledge that was lost over time, such as practices from witches or diverse cultures. This loss is linked to historical violence and control by dominant powers.
  3. To find hope in difficult times, we should embrace creativity and imagination. By viewing the world differently, we can envision new possibilities and a re-enchanted future.

In The Fight Against Tyranny, Don't Let Your Happiness Depend On Big Wins

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2184 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Activism Government Social Issues Mental health Philosophy
  1. It's important to find happiness outside of big victories. Relying on large wins can lead to disappointment and frustration.
  2. Your happiness can positively impact others. Allowing joy into your life can spread happiness to those around you.
  3. Cultivating happiness is a valuable skill. Learning to be happy can make you more effective in your efforts to make a difference.

Days of Awe

davidabell • 257 implied HN points • 05 Oct 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Philosophy Science Mysticism
  1. Many people today struggle to feel awe due to busy lives and technology that makes us feel in control. It’s important to take moments to reflect and appreciate the greater universe around us.
  2. Science has revealed how vast and complex the universe is, but this should inspire awe rather than diminish it. We still have much to learn about the world, and the mysteries of nature can be humbling.
  3. There is a balance between questioning everything and accepting that some things are beyond our understanding. Accepting our limits and feeling awe can lead to a deeper appreciation of life.

The Ancient Greek Play That Hilariously Mocked Collectivism and Democracy

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 138 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Theater Comedy History Philosophy
  1. Aristophanes' play "The Assemblywomen" cleverly mocks democracy and the absurdities of life in Ancient Athens. It shows how sometimes people in power can be foolish and self-serving.
  2. The play presents a humorous twist where women take over the political scene, highlighting the chaos that can come from trying to enforce equality and collectivism.
  3. The humor exposes the flaws of democracy—where not everyone making decisions may have the best interests of society in mind, showing how majorities can be just as dangerous as tyrants.

Lovebombed by the Magi

Default Wisdom • 96 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Internet culture Philosophy Digital Media Social Commentary Technology Ethics
  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.

Does the flame of genius burn past 30?

The Common Reader • 4181 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Philosophy Education Science
  1. Genius can continue to shine bright after age 30, not just in youth. Many inventors and artists create amazing work later in life too.
  2. The age at which people achieve great things has changed over time, often due to the increasing complexity of knowledge in various fields.
  3. Not all talent comes from young people. Many famous poets and thinkers made their best contributions after they turned fifty.

Defending the Trinity

What Is Called Thinking? • 56 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy Theology Existentialism Mysticism
  1. Memory, imagination, and identity shape how we experience time. They show us that our past influences our present actions and future hopes.
  2. Understanding ourselves and the world is a journey through our relationships and experiences. We are like bridges between our inherited meanings and our future choices.
  3. Philosophers like Augustine and Heidegger teach us that our identity is not fixed. It evolves as we navigate time and interpret our lives, making each moment meaningful.

Top reads of the week

gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen • 238 implied HN points • 05 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Music Fashion Philosophy
  1. There are top reads each week that can keep you informed and entertained. It's a great way to discover new content that interests you.
  2. You can subscribe to get a free trial and access more in-depth posts. This is a good option if you want to explore more topics.
  3. The featured artwork, like 'Houses by the Sea', adds a visual appeal to the reading experience. Art can enhance our understanding of different subjects.

The Deferred Life Plan

Residual Thoughts • 198 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Personal Growth Philosophy Social Commentary Self-reflection
  1. Life can feel chaotic and uncertain, which can be scary but also motivating. It's important to use this urgency to pursue what you truly want to do.
  2. Rather than waiting for the perfect moment or inspiration, start working on your passions now. Don't let life's unpredictability hold you back.
  3. Avoid getting distracted by temporary pleasures; focus on meaningful work and long-term goals instead. This will bring more fulfillment in the long run.

Satya Nadella and the three stages of scientific truth

Marcus on AI • 8023 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🕹 Technology AI Innovation Science Computing Philosophy
  1. New ideas in science often face resistance at first. People may ridicule them before they accept the change.
  2. Scaling laws in deep learning may not last forever. This suggests that other methods may be needed to advance technology.
  3. Many tech leaders are now discussing the limits of scaling laws, showing a shift in thinking towards exploring new approaches.

Things Worth Remembering: The Empathy of J.K. Rowling

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 6969 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Public Speaking Media Art Philosophy
  1. J.K. Rowling reminded everyone how powerful imagination can be during her speech at Harvard. It's a great reminder of the importance of creativity in our lives.
  2. Rowling is praised for being a brilliant and successful writer, despite facing controversy in recent years. Her talent and impact on literature shouldn't be overlooked.
  3. It's essential to appreciate remarkable people like Rowling while they are still alive. We often wait too long to celebrate the contributions of influential figures.

How Intellectuals Found God

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 5958 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Theism Philosophy Intellectualism Conversion Religion
  1. Many intellectuals, who once questioned or rejected God, are now finding faith. It's interesting to see a change in perspective among respected thinkers.
  2. One example is Matthew Crawford, who felt lost in his early life but experienced a spiritual transformation through personal connections and discussions about faith.
  3. The journey to finding God can often feel like a personal story of searching and discovery, rather than a simple acceptance of religious beliefs.

Diamonds and dictionaries

Austin Kleon • 5095 implied HN points • 19 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Philosophy Media
  1. Life is short, so choosing to live playfully can enhance your experience. A new documentary about Hans Zimmer shows how creativity and playfulness can lead to interesting discoveries.
  2. The Criterion Channel now offers a continuous stream of films, so you can watch without deciding what to choose. It's a great way to enjoy movies while working or relaxing.
  3. Women artists often create their work in small moments throughout the day. This highlights the importance of finding time for creativity in our busy lives.