The hottest Philosophy Substack posts right now

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What We Learned This Year

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2805 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Tuning out distractions and staying focused on important work can lead to positive results, as shown by efforts to improve safety and create jobs.
  2. Apathy is a major threat to open societies, highlighting the need for active participation in institutions that shape our future.
  3. Vigilance and resilience are crucial. Protecting ourselves and recognizing threats is important for safety and freedom.

Dr. Morell and the Patient A

Global Inequality and More 3.0 • 739 implied HN points • 09 Aug 25
💾 History Philosophy
  1. Germany was a leader in the pharmaceutical industry before and after World War I, producing many important drugs that are still used today.
  2. Dr. Morell, Hitler's personal physician, used various drugs to manage Hitler's declining health, making him appear more capable than he actually was.
  3. While Dr. Morell's methods were questionable from a medical ethics standpoint, they were politically successful in maintaining Hitler's image and leadership during the war.

#150 Just enough design (and no more)

Design Lobster • 259 implied HN points • 10 Jun 24
🪑 Design Philosophy
  1. Hodo-hodo is a Japanese concept of moderation and balance applied to design, meaning 'just enough design.' It emphasizes the idea of deliberately holding back in design to achieve an ideal level of completion.
  2. Just enough design can create space for imagination and personal interpretation, as seen in the example of Kinoishi wooden stones that were designed as toys without instructions.
  3. Designing with 'hodo-hodo' philosophy can lead to subtle yet impactful details that might not be consciously noticed but can evoke emotional connections and enhance user experience.

Life Cannot Be Delegated

The Convivial Society • 2609 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Life is about personal involvement and cannot be handed off to technology. When we let technology take over important parts of our lives, we miss out on what makes life meaningful.
  2. We should think carefully about how much we delegate to technology. There are limits to how much we can rely on it before it stops helping us and starts taking away from our experience of life.
  3. Everyday tasks and responsibilities are not distractions; they are part of what shapes our lives. Embracing the mundane can help us find purpose and meaning in our actions.

Failing in both directions

Austin Kleon • 3077 implied HN points • 28 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Thinking about intelligence can be really interesting, especially when it's connected to our bodies. There are ways to have experiences that help us understand this better.
  2. Keeping a weekly review can help you track what you've done and what you want to do next. It’s like having a checklist to keep your thoughts organized.
  3. Sometimes when creating something new, you can only change one part at a time. It’s good to focus on either how it tastes or how it looks, but not both at once.
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On Reclaiming Leisure

The Analog Family • 699 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. We often feel the need to scroll on our phones for a break, but this can actually lower our happiness. Instead, we should look for more rewarding ways to spend our downtime.
  2. Finding high-quality leisure activities can help us feel more fulfilled. This means doing things like reading, being creative, or spending time outside, which can all boost our energy and happiness.
  3. It's important to remember how to have fun as adults. We should allow ourselves time to play and enjoy life, not just focus on responsibilities.

Stop Using Fiction to Push Politics

Mind & Mythos • 159 implied HN points • 05 Jul 24
📚 Literature Philosophy
  1. When writing stories, it's important to focus on storytelling first. Characters and plots should come alive naturally without feeling forced.
  2. Hemingway's approach shows that exploring deep themes works best when they arise from character experiences, rather than pushing a political agenda.
  3. Readers lose interest if the story feels too political or preachy. Good stories engage emotions and allow ideas to unfold organically.

Against Respectability

Becoming Noble • 1734 implied HN points • 19 May 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. In degraded times, the desire for respectability may lead to conformity and compromise with harmful ideologies, so it's crucial to be willing to stand alone for what is right.
  2. Walking alone can be lonely but necessary for those who prioritize their convictions over societal approval, even in the face of political correctness and ideological pressure.
  3. True morality comes from a higher source, not from seeking approval or conforming to societal norms; it requires the willingness to face persecution and suffering for staying true to one's beliefs.

School’s out for summer

Austin Kleon • 2657 implied HN points • 26 May 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. School is out for summer, which often brings excitement and new opportunities for students to explore their interests.
  2. Writing and creativity can be daily practices that are done without the pressure of immediate success or failure.
  3. Understanding the complexities and risks of AI is important, as it can affect how we think and make decisions.

Are we doomed or is deliverance possible??

Blackbird Spyplane • 1139 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. The TV series 'The Curse' has a brilliant and bizarre finale that attempts and achieves unique things in the TV world.
  2. The show explores themes of cursed culture and the struggle for deliverance from societal decay.
  3. The finale of 'The Curse' leaves viewers debating whether the characters are doomed or have a shot at redemption.

The Naked Potential of 2024: Democracy, Chaos and Creativity

rebelwisdom • 1002 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. 2024 is a year with significant democratic elections worldwide, highlighting a growing apathy and distrust in the democratic process.
  2. The tension between centralized control and decentralized, regenerative movements is intensifying, leading to a clash of ideologies and perspectives in society.
  3. There is a growing movement towards seeking new ways of being and thinking, challenging existing structures and norms in society.

The Radical Jewish Philosopher

Classical Wisdom • 1690 implied HN points • 14 Jun 23
💾 History Philosophy
  1. Philo of Alexandria was a Jewish philosopher who blended biblical teachings with Hellenistic philosophy.
  2. His works had a significant impact on later Christian thinkers.
  3. Philo was born in Alexandria, Egypt, came from an influential family, and studied the Bible and Jewish scholarly works.

a postrationalist syllabus

eigenrobot,s Blog • 1670 implied HN points • 12 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Postrationalism is a cultural influence that never actually existed, but influences can still be studied and emulated.
  2. The selection of cultural touchstones in the syllabus is subjective, reflecting one individual's perspective within the realm of postrationalism.
  3. The syllabus encompasses a wide range of topics, including anthropology, language, stories, synthetic history, metacognition, ways to live, and more.

The Abyss

Becoming Noble • 1514 implied HN points • 28 Oct 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. The idea of forming a warrior religion may be exciting, but it is essential to consider the flawed approach to truth, belief, action, and divinity.
  2. Religion should originate from a genuine encounter with the divine, rather than being artificially constructed for practical purposes.
  3. Seeking spiritual guidance solely from nature without a foundation in absolute Truth can lead to nihilism and a lack of transcendent orientation.

What's Wrong with Stereotypes?

Fake Noûs • 702 implied HN points • 02 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Stereotypes are often seen as bad, but they can actually be based on real observations about groups of people. This means that sometimes, they hold more truth than we think.
  2. Critics of stereotypes often argue they are oppressive, but studies suggest individual characteristics play a bigger role in how people are judged than stereotypes do.
  3. Stereotypes can help us make quick assumptions based on past experiences, and it's natural for humans to learn this way; denying this process is unrealistic.

There Is No Need To Wait For Revolution Or Paradise

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2202 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Philosophy
  1. You don't have to wait for a big change to start making a difference. You can begin now by sharing ideas and helping others see the truth about our world.
  2. You have the power to enjoy life and see beauty all around you, even when times are tough. Learning to appreciate the moment can make a big difference in how you feel.
  3. There's no need to wait for a perfect future or grand revolution. The time to act and appreciate life is right now, so don't hold back any longer.

True Detective and the Challenge of Nihilism

The Bigger Picture • 679 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. True Detective's first season remains relevant today, exploring the exhaustion of history and society's cyclical nature.
  2. The show delves into the themes of suicide and nihilism, reflecting on the prevalence of such ideas in contemporary culture.
  3. Christianity, nihilism, and the notion of a 'flat circle' universe are intertwined in the philosophical discourse of the series, challenging viewers to ponder human nature and spiritual ambiguity.

Essay Club: Wotan by Carl Jung

Mind & Mythos • 299 implied HN points • 17 May 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Carl Jung believed that the rise of the Nazis in Germany was tied to a spiritual crisis, which he symbolized with the ancient god Wotan. He saw this as a sign of a deeper psychological unrest rather than just economic problems.
  2. Jung introduced the idea of the 'collective unconscious', suggesting that everyone shares certain archetypes or collective thoughts that can influence entire cultures. Wotan, for Jung, represented a part of the German psyche that could manifest in times of crisis.
  3. Jung argued that rather than being purely responsible for their actions, people could be seen as victims of these powerful archetypes. He thought this could help explain the extreme behaviors of nations, especially in challenging times.

Humanity Must Awaken From The Dream Of Separation

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2239 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. Many people think they are separate from others and the world, which causes a lot of suffering. We feel this even though our true nature isn't separate; it's just a belief we hold.
  2. We create problems as a society because we compete instead of collaborate. This competition leads to issues like poverty and war.
  3. If humanity can realize that we are not separate, we can work together and solve many of our biggest challenges. This realization has the potential to change everything for the better.

God And Gödel

Daily Dreher • 904 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. The post discusses Kurt Gödel, a famous mathematician and logician, and his belief in life after death.
  2. The post raises interesting questions about logic and philosophy through Gödel's perspective.
  3. The author encourages readers to think outside the box and explore unconventional ideas.

Normal is what you can successfully ignore

Austin Kleon • 3137 implied HN points • 03 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Normal is not just a standard; it's about what we don't pay attention to. If something feels normal to you, it's likely something you easily overlook.
  2. Public speaking can improve with practice and self-assurance. It's important to focus on sharing ideas rather than trying to be perfect.
  3. Connecting with nature and animals can deepen our understanding of life. Reflecting on our relationships with them can lead to interesting insights.

Feeling Honored

In My Tribe • 759 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Having 10,000 subscribers feels like a big honor. This shows that my work is appreciated by many, which is really important to me.
  2. Through a discussion on what matters most in life, I found that honor is my top priority. It’s a reminder to balance this with my other responsibilities, especially to my family.
  3. Even if we disagree on some topics like AI safety, I appreciate the support from thoughtful people. Their feedback motivates me to keep sharing my ideas.

Things Worth Remembering: When the Earth Shakes

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1674 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
💾 History Philosophy
  1. The 1906 San Francisco earthquake led to a lot of chaos, but it also showed how people can come together and create order from disorder.
  2. Philosopher William James found inspiration in the earthquake's aftermath, believing in hope even during tough times.
  3. This history reminds us that even in crisis, there can be opportunities to rebuild and unite as a community.

Be Slightly Monstrous

Breaking Smart • 161 implied HN points • 29 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Embracing a slightly monstrous mindset can help people adapt to the strange nature of the world today. This means accepting new ideas and ways of thinking that might seem weird to others.
  2. Feeling time deeply is important, and being slightly monstrous can help achieve that. It allows people to see beyond the worries of the present and feel connected to the past and future.
  3. Understanding the difference between 'Type I' monsters, who represent positive change and adaptation, and 'Type II' monsters, who are tied to human darkness, helps in navigating societal and personal challenges.

Best of the Best: Year End Awards

Range Widely • 1002 implied HN points • 19 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. The awards featured various categories like Best Quote for One's Own Obituary and Best Nobel/Olympic Family.
  2. Interesting fact shared about the empty space in atoms: if atom nucleus was the size of a tennis ball, the electron would be orbiting in New Jersey.
  3. Fascinating insights on different topics, from Saxon riddles to Nobel Prize connections, were shared in the post.

Redneck Cosmopolitanism

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 898 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Class is complex and doesn't just depend on income; it's about background, education, and feelings of belonging too. People can feel insecure about their class, even if they seem to be doing well.
  2. A person's past and family history can deeply affect their current sense of security and identity. This can create a feeling of always being at risk of losing what they've gained.
  3. Striving for personal meaning and supporting others can help combat feelings of insecurity and give life a richer purpose. It's about finding fulfillment beyond just financial success.

the paris diaries

Mind Mine • 1434 implied HN points • 21 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. The author explores the concept of feeling like a foreigner in one's own home but finding a sense of belonging in other places.
  2. Observations on the enjoyment and slower pace of life in Paris compared to North America, appreciating the French culture of savoring moments.
  3. Reflections on the idea of choosing one's own path in life and the importance of embodiment and physical connection in personal growth.

Hidden Open Thread 393.5

Astral Codex Ten • 619 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. The post is part of a series for paid subscribers, indicating exclusive content.
  2. It emphasizes the importance of community engagement through discussions and sharing.
  3. The thread allows for open conversation, suggesting a space for diverse opinions and experiences.

✨🗽 My Q&A with Francis Fukuyama on AI and liberal democracy. Some sci-fi, too!

Faster, Please! • 182 implied HN points • 28 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Philosophy
  1. AI technology can greatly impact our lives and the way we think about democracy. We need to consider how it may change human behavior and society.
  2. Biotechnology has potential risks that could affect human nature itself. It's important to reflect on how these advancements might alter what it means to be human.
  3. Discussions about technology should include both excitement about progress and caution about the challenges. Balancing innovation with ethical considerations is key.

Love Grows

The Map is Mostly Water • 1643 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy
  1. Love isn't just something that happens to you; it's something you actively work on. Like tending a garden, you have to put in effort to help love grow.
  2. Many people have a casual attitude about love, thinking it will just appear by chance. This mindset can lead to a sense of helplessness in relationships.
  3. Introspection is important, but it needs to be paired with action. If you want love in your life, you have to take initiative and make choices to nurture it.

Teach us to Care and not to Care

The Joyous Struggle • 632 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy
  1. On Ash Wednesday, the reminder of mortality through rituals like smudging ash can help us embrace the impermanence of life
  2. It's important to reflect on what truly matters in life, learning to care deeply about important things while also letting go of what is not worth our attention
  3. Exploring different spiritual paths and beliefs can be a lifelong journey of self-discovery and understanding