The hottest Philosophy Substack posts right now

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A formal language for first-order predicate logic

Infinitely More • 15 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
🚌 Education Philosophy
  1. A formal language for first-order predicate logic involves understanding the basic syntax, terms, variables, and structure interpretations.
  2. Signatures in structures specify the elements like relations, functions, and constants in a mathematical structure, detailing their features and meanings.
  3. Mathematics uses a wide array of first-order structures to study various concepts like orders, graphs, groups, and more, unifying different mathematical investigations.

Searching for the Exit Routes

New World Same Humans • 28 implied HN points • 24 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Philosophy
  1. The conversation about technology and human limits revolves around the dichotomy of transcension and limits, with different perspectives on embracing technological progress or imposing new restrictions.
  2. The tension between transcension and limits reflects the inherent duality of human nature - the infinite and finite parts - leading to the need for new accommodations and ways to negotiate this conflict.
  3. There is a call for a renewed liberalism that accommodates diverse ways of life in the face of technological modernity, providing exit routes out of the current trajectory towards a more inclusive and multi-layered future.

The continuum hypothesis

Infinitely More • 30 implied HN points • 04 Mar 23
🔬 Science Philosophy
  1. The continuum hypothesis suggests there is no infinity strictly between natural numbers and real numbers.
  2. The continuum problem has been a challenging and prominent open question in mathematics for over a century.
  3. David Hilbert included the continuum problem as the top question in his list of important open mathematical problems in 1900.

Recent Notes...

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 7 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🚌 Education Philosophy
  1. C.P. Snow's The Two Cultures highlights the divide between the sciences and humanities. Learning more about both can make anyone smarter.
  2. John Ganz is an example of a hardworking person who could benefit from understanding the ideas in Snow's work.
  3. The goal of sharing this information is to help readers become smarter and enhance their understanding of important cultural concepts.

Tolstoyan Colony in Turkestan - Turkestan Vedomosti, 1910

The Library of Alexandria Ultima • 8 implied HN points • 05 Oct 24
💾 History Philosophy
  1. The Tolstoyan Colony in Turkestan was created by people who followed Leo Tolstoy's ideas of peaceful living and simple lifestyles. They wanted to distance themselves from mainstream society and create a community based on shared values.
  2. The colony faced challenges like resource mismanagement and conflicts over land with local nomadic populations. These issues highlight the difficulties that communal living and utopian ideas often experience in real life.
  3. Despite the problems, the community made progress by working hard to develop their farming and living conditions. They focused on growing food and improving their homes, believing in their ideals even when obstacles arose.
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RI Versus the Marketplace of Realities

Theofuturism • 26 implied HN points • 22 May 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. The rise of Religious Intelligence (RI) is a rediscovery of essential truths in a world of rapidly advancing technology.
  2. The increasing importance of understanding overlapping religious narratives and the need for comprehensive metaphysical interpretations in the modern world.
  3. The looming challenge of a reality crisis as technology blurs the lines between what is real, emphasizing the need for Religious Intelligence to navigate the complexities of the digital realm.

"Oh My God"

Perspective Agents • 15 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Philosophy
  1. Apple Vision Pro is a revolutionary device with advanced features and capabilities.
  2. The immersive experiences created by Apple Vision Pro have the potential to revolutionize entertainment, education, and more.
  3. Critics have concerns about the impact of hyper-realistic virtual reality, but some believe it can offer unique and genuine experiences.

Nicholas Christakis: (Ad-Free video) From Social Networks to AI, Special Thanksgiving Podcast

Critical Mass • 6 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🎙 Podcasts Philosophy
  1. Nicholas Christakis is a highly accomplished scholar with a diverse background in social and natural sciences at Yale University. He studies how human networks function and how they can be improved.
  2. His book 'Blueprint' discusses how evolution has helped humans create successful societies characterized by cooperation and love. He also looks at how both culture and genetics influence each other.
  3. The conversation touches on big questions like the nature of good and how artificial intelligence might change our societies. It's clear that there is a lot to learn about social connections, both in humans and animals.

An Ode to Great Gear

From the Desk • 18 implied HN points • 26 Sep 23
🪑 Design Philosophy
  1. Gear is an integral part of our lives and can be nostalgic, tied to experiences and memories.
  2. Gear enthusiasts have philosophies in acquiring gear, like brand loyalty or minimalism.
  3. Having a 'Point of Unrecognized Satisfaction' helps assess optimal spending on gear based on usability.

#27 Ethical pots, transparency & citizen designers

Design Lobster • 39 implied HN points • 03 Aug 20
🪑 Design Philosophy
  1. Consider the responsibilities as a citizen when designing. Designer have a role in society worth reflection.
  2. Moral significance can be attributed to design decisions, like in a pottery's 'ethical' qualities. Design choices can carry moral weight.
  3. Great design can be transparent, not invisible. Good design should be unobtrusive yet noticeable, aiding without hiding.

VIDEO: The Mystery of Curiosity

What's Important? • 13 implied HN points • 17 Feb 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. The author believes in an idea that can significantly impact the world and aims to simplify it for broad understanding.
  2. The concept of wealth management plays a crucial role in enabling individuals to pursue their curiosity by providing financial stability.
  3. The author distilled nearly a decade of work into a concise 20-minute presentation to explore the disconnection from a hidden force.

Leave Your Phone At Home

Seeking Tribe • 16 implied HN points • 18 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Leaving your phone at home can give you space to wrestle with uncomfortable ideas without distractions.
  2. Disconnecting from digital screens can help you focus on deep contemplation and introspection.
  3. Taking a break from technology can lead to profound realizations and a reorientation of your mindset.

The Real Best Films of the Year

The Octavian Report • 24 implied HN points • 09 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Real best films of the year were highlighted, challenging traditional award shows.
  2. Films like 'Living', 'Le Petite Maman', and 'EO' showcased captivating storytelling and performances.
  3. 'The Treasure of His Youth' and 'Turn Every Page' offered intriguing insights into legendary figures in photography and publishing.

(Ad-free Video) Jonathan Rauch: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy

Critical Mass • 4 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. Jonathan Rauch believes Christianity has positive moral values that support democracy. He thinks these values should be embraced to help improve democracy in the U.S.
  2. The discussion explores different views on the role of Christian teachings in society. It highlights the importance of understanding and respecting differing perspectives.
  3. Rauch's new book offers a surprising look at Christianity, challenging common criticisms. He argues for the importance of values that connect with democratic principles.

Letter #4: Peace

Charles Eisenstein • 2 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. Taking action for peace is urgent as the world faces serious challenges. We need to be proactive in addressing these crises.
  2. Writing about tough topics can be difficult, especially when it feels like there is pressure to get it right. It's okay to keep revising and trying again.
  3. The feeling of responsibility can weigh heavy when discussing war and conflict. It's important to recognize this pressure while still striving for positive change.

Winding Down With Love College and the Dalai Lama’s Twitter Account

The False Consensus Effect • 19 implied HN points • 21 May 21
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. The author reflects on the importance of love and wisdom, suggesting that focusing on early love and courting happiness can bring insight and joy to life.
  2. The text discusses societal issues, mentioning the impact of modernity on happiness, the neglect of love in public discourse, and the pursuit of careerism over true happiness.
  3. There is a critical reflection on the Dalai Lama and the concept of compassion, questioning his style, the perception of enlightenment, and the importance of personal responsibility over societal actions.

20250119

Curious futures (KGhosh) • 4 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
📚 Literature Philosophy
  1. Missile attacks have now caused more deaths among airline passengers than traditional accidents. This shows a shift in safety concerns for flying.
  2. In-flight Wi-Fi is getting better with new tech like Starlink, allowing passengers to enjoy streaming while flying. It's a fun way to pass the time, but it raises questions about privacy.
  3. The trend towards alcohol-free drinks is growing, reflecting a change in lifestyle choices. Passengers seem to enjoy these healthier options while traveling.

The Stoic Gardener

SJF • 3 HN points • 13 May 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. George Harrison was known for finding peace in gardening at Friar Park.
  2. Harrison incorporated Stoic practice into his gardening, seeing it as a reflective and meditative task.
  3. Gardening can be therapeutic and purposeful, requiring a steady approach.

Representations In the Heart of The Country

Latest Curiosities • 1 HN point • 25 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. The mind uses representations to show us our innermost desires, like a desire for freedom or simplicity.
  2. The music we listen to and the things we surround ourselves with represent our deepest desires and can guide us in understanding ourselves better.
  3. Exploring our own representations, such as music preferences, can help us uncover obscured desires and potentially lead us to new paths in our lives.

#37: Open space

The Uncertainty Mindset (soon to become tbd) • 39 implied HN points • 15 Jul 20
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Creating something special requires open space for personal interpretation. When there's too much control from the maker, it limits how others can feel and respond.
  2. Special experiences can happen in many forms, but they are rare. Things that connect the ordinary with something higher often need a balance of simplicity and ambiguity.
  3. Leaving open space means the creator must embrace uncertainty, which can be challenging. Mastering this balance is key to making experiences that truly resonate with people.

how we die

the rohn report • 19 implied HN points • 08 Jun 21
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. Death is a natural part of life, with birth and death forming a perfect equation.
  2. Accepting death and being familiar with our own mortality can help us navigate the inevitable.
  3. Growing old is a process of regression, preparing us for the final destination without pause or rehearsal.

The World You See Is The Myth You Are In

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 11 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. The book delves into themes of consciousness, technology, and the occult, emphasizing humanity's interconnectedness and the importance of our choices as a species.
  2. The author challenges the reader to consider freedom beyond mere physical liberty, encouraging a deeper exploration of individual and societal beliefs.
  3. Critiques in the book include the need for a systemic analysis of issues like post-industrial capitalism and the importance of addressing hidden aspects of reality, such as the esoteric and occult.

Dispatches from the Serengeti

The Jolly Contrarian • 19 implied HN points • 20 Aug 21
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. The author discusses a debate over the lyrics of a famous song, questioning the correct word usage and its implications.
  2. The text delves into the complexities of contract law, particularly the issues with governing a contract under one law and interpreting it under another.
  3. The concept of 'culpa in contrahendo' is explored, highlighting the importance of negotiating in good faith and the implications of misrepresentation in contracts.

Best writers and thinkers on the Machine?

Reactionary Feminist • 11 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🚌 Education Philosophy
  1. Ruth Gaskovski at School of the Unconformed compiled a reading list on the Machine and asked for suggestions.
  2. There is a summer seminar in Cambridge, MA on the philosophy of technology called 'The Machine Has No Tradition'.
  3. Selected readings from the seminar's syllabus include works by Karl Marx, Carl Schmitt, Ivan Illich, and others.

5 guides that improve my life

A Bit Gamey • 20 implied HN points • 16 Apr 23
🚌 Education Philosophy
  1. Reflect on and live up to the expectations of your 18-year-old self.
  2. Avoid consuming news and focus on intentional activities like reading or listening to podcasts.
  3. Show respect and appreciation for manual workers and prioritize having 'skin in the game' by taking risks

Your Questions

DruGroup • 19 implied HN points • 26 Oct 21
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. Asking questions helps us learn and understand things better. The act of questioning can even make us smarter.
  2. Questions are key to building strong relationships. When we ask others about themselves, it shows we care and want to connect.
  3. Good questions can resolve conflicts and promote understanding. Instead of arguing, asking someone a thoughtful question can bring about peace.

#29: Ambient uncertainty, Part 3

The Uncertainty Mindset (soon to become tbd) • 39 implied HN points • 20 May 20
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Different types of wheat flour can create different levels of uncertainty in cooking, especially when making pizza. Some flours result in more predictable dough, while others can lead to unexpected results.
  2. Working with flours that create unpredictable outcomes can help us become more comfortable with uncertainty in life. Learning to adapt in small situations might prepare us for bigger uncertainties later on.
  3. Accepting that we can't always control outcomes, like dough turning into soup, can be a valuable lesson. It teaches us to respond with flexibility and patience when things don't go as planned.

#25: A succession of new normals

The Uncertainty Mindset (soon to become tbd) • 39 implied HN points • 22 Apr 20
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. The concept of 'new normals' means that we will have ongoing changes in how we live and work due to events like the coronavirus. Life won't go back to how it was before right away.
  2. We need to adapt to different stages of lockdowns rather than thinking about reopening completely. This means being flexible and prepared for continuous adjustments.
  3. Certain countries that took fast action have better control over the situation, showing that how we respond to crises matters. Our approaches may need to change based on what tools we have available.

"The Honeyed Nectar of the True Soul-Life"

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 10 implied HN points • 17 Feb 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. Paschal Beverly Randolph was a unique and remarkable 19th Century Black American thinker, visionary, and occultist with a fascinating life story.
  2. Randolph's work involved promoting sex magic, founding America's first Rosicrucian center, writing numerous books, teaching literacy to emancipated slaves, and leading a controversial life.
  3. Occult thinkers like Randolph and Rudolf Steiner are often marginalized, despite their claims of direct access to spiritual worlds, while figures like Madame Blavatsky and Aleister Crowley are more widely accepted.

My Truth as ‘The Truth’

Theory Matters • 16 implied HN points • 11 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. In our current society, personal feelings are given a lot of importance, especially in politics.
  2. We prioritize 'our truths' over facts and definitions.
  3. There is a shift towards focusing more on personal beliefs rather than objective truths.

Towards a More Conscious Civilization

Anima Mundi • 20 implied HN points • 19 Feb 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. Jiddu Krishnamurti emphasized the need for inner transformation to change the world.
  2. True freedom, according to Krishnamurti, comes from within and involves letting go of limitations.
  3. Krishnamurti highlighted the importance of love as a state of being that fosters cooperation and compassion.

Faith

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 23 Jul 21
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. Rejecting one idea of God doesn't mean you can't create your own idea of God. It's important to find a belief that feels right for you.
  2. Faith can be seen differently in religious and scientific communities. While faith is a virtue in religion, science values doubt and questioning.
  3. Even in math and logic, there’s a level of faith that better explanations exist. This shows that faith isn’t just for the religious, but important in every field of exploration.