The hottest Political culture Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

The Saturday Read: The velvet curtain

The Saturday Read • 119 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Political culture Populism Party Dynamics Geopolitics
  1. The rise of pop political movements, like MAGA and Thatcherism, show that they can reshape party identity and power dynamics in profound ways. This isn't just a short-term trend; it's likely to stick around.
  2. There's a real worry about the growing alignment of countries in the Brics group, which could change how global politics work. Many leaders aren't addressing this potential shift, leaving concerns about balance of power.
  3. North Korea sending troops to help Russia in Ukraine raises alarms, especially for neighboring countries like South Korea. It's a reminder of how tensions can escalate and lead to a larger conflict.

I Can Explain Why the Nazi Salute Is Back

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1618 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Social Issues Public Discourse Media influence
  1. Nazi salutes have become popular among some figures on the American right, often used as a form of trolling or provocation. It's a way for people to make a statement, but it doesn't always reflect their true beliefs.
  2. Many people see these gestures as lazy and offensive, as they provoke reactions without a deeper conversation about the issues at stake. It's a cheap way to get attention and stir controversy.
  3. The rise of such gestures is linked to a culture that thrives on opposition and rebellion, where people continue to act out as if they are still in a fight, even when they have gained some power or influence.

Salman Rushdie: ‘I Was Dying.’ Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1479 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Legislation Political culture
  1. Salman Rushdie faced the man who attacked him, describing the terrible moment he was stabbed and thought he was dying. It was a painful and dramatic court appearance for him after years of threats.
  2. The National Endowment for Democracy is struggling financially due to funding blocks, which could hurt important U.S. efforts abroad. This situation raises concerns about its impact on promoting democracy worldwide.
  3. Vice President J.D. Vance gave a strong speech on AI during a trip to Paris, highlighting America's lead in technology and the benefits it brings. He emphasized the importance of not overregulating AI, showcasing a new approach under the current administration.

DOGE and the Backlash to the Backlash

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1335 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Social media Public Figures Racism Government Ethics
  1. Elon Musk's DOGE initiative brought back a staffer who resigned after making racist posts online. This decision was based on a poll where most respondents agreed with his reinstatement.
  2. The backlash against 'woke culture' is linked to reactions against public figures losing their jobs over offensive past statements. Many incidents involved celebrities and public figures being fired for things they said or did online.
  3. As younger people in the DOGE initiative are heavily active online, more controversial past comments may emerge. This raises concerns about the kinds of people joining government positions and their influence.

Lessons From Michigan's DEI Failure

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1099 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Social Issues Political culture Public Policy Activism
  1. The University of Michigan spent a lot of money and time on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts, but many people felt frustrated and saw it as a failure.
  2. Students from different backgrounds thought that the DEI programs were well-intentioned but didn't achieve their goals.
  3. Research suggests that people who are religious report being happier compared to those heavily focused on DEI principles.
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A Unified Theory of Trump’s Hyperactive Start

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1428 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Federal Policy Political culture Executive orders Media influence
  1. Trump is making a lot of changes really quickly, which is surprising many people. It’s hard for the news to keep up with all his new policies and announcements.
  2. There’s a focus on cultural policy in Trump’s approach, suggesting he believes cultural issues are key to America's problems. Many people might agree there are concerns about the overall state of American culture.
  3. Trump's choice of countries to threaten tariffs, like Canada and Mexico, raises questions about his priorities and strategy. It’s interesting to think about how these decisions reflect his views on trade and relationships.

Trump Is Uncool. And That’s a Good Thing.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2504 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Elections Public Opinion Political Leadership Media
  1. The idea is that having a president who isn't seen as 'cool' could be a positive change. It suggests that style and image might matter less than the actions they take.
  2. The comparison with Obama shows how being cool can influence public perception of a leader. When Obama took office, his cool demeanor made many feel hopeful.
  3. The text hints that after years of trendy leaders, it might be time to appreciate a more straightforward, less flashy approach to leadership.

There Are No Alternative Facts: Some Rules For Discerning Reality In This Hallucinogenic Hellscape of Misinformation

Welcome to Garbagetown • 1111 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Misinformation Critical Thinking Media influence Political culture Public Discourse
  1. Misinformation can feel so real that it blurs the lines between fantasy and reality. It's important to recognize that not everything we hear is actually true.
  2. When evaluating bizarre claims, a good question to ask is if believing them would make life much easier or more exciting. If so, it's likely not true and just ridiculous.
  3. People may strongly believe in outrageous ideas and act seriously on them, but we should remain critical and cautious about what we accept as reality.

February 22, 2025

Letters from an American • 22 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Legislation Military Political culture
  1. Trump has removed several top military leaders and replaced them with people he views as loyal to him. This raises concerns about the independence and integrity of the military.
  2. The idea of having a military that answers only to one leader, rather than to the Constitution, can lead towards authoritarianism. It's worrying when military leaders are replaced simply for being critical or not compliant.
  3. There is a troubling shift toward portraying military actions and immigrant deportation as something entertaining or pleasurable. This reflects a broader disrespect for the values of humane treatment in warfare and governance.

The America of Yesterday

Yascha Mounk • 5095 implied HN points • 01 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Civic engagement Public Opinion Political History Social movements
  1. America used to be a place where people felt hopeful about their country and its future. Now, many people seem more cynical and distrustful of public figures.
  2. In the past, popular culture embraced humor and self-awareness, allowing for discussions about important issues without taking everything too seriously. Today, there's a sense of censorship and a judgmental attitude towards differing opinions.
  3. Despite the current negativity, there's still hope for America. The country has a history of bouncing back from difficult times, and there's a chance that a cultural renewal could happen in the future.

Note on Gloating

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 8973 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Media influence Public Opinion Bureaucracy Rhetoric
  1. It's okay to feel some relief after a big defeat, but it's important to stay cautious. Some problems still linger in institutions like schools and media.
  2. Even if things seem better now, there’s a chance that old habits and beliefs can resurface. Staying vigilant is key.
  3. Humor can help us process tough topics, but we shouldn't forget the challenges that may remain.

Clapping for Stalin

The Watch • 1298 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Dictatorship Totalitarianism Political History Political culture
  1. People often feel pressured to show support, even if they don't really believe in it. This can lead to a situation where everyone claps just to fit in.
  2. Some individuals may hesitate to stop applauding because of fear of consequences, showing how group dynamics can create a sense of obligation.
  3. In extreme situations, a single person's choice can change the entire group’s behavior, like stopping applause, which can reveal who is truly independent and who is not.

Have Man-Hating Feminists Gone Too Far?

The Discourse Lounge • 5052 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Feminism Gender Issues Political culture Social movements Voting behavior
  1. Some people believe modern feminism blames men for societal problems, which may affect how certain men vote. There seems to be a divide where many men support anti-feminist views, while women tend to support feminist-leaning candidates.
  2. A personal experience in a feminist class revealed that the course didn't promote hate towards men but rather focused on broader social issues like economics and inclusivity. The class provided a more nuanced understanding of feminism that counters online stereotypes.
  3. The negative perceptions of feminism among some young men often come from online content rather than actual feminist theory. Engaging directly with feminist education can help dispel myths and offer a better understanding of gender issues.

An Excellent Means of Electioneering

Looking Through the Past • 178 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Campaigns Voting History Advertising Political culture
  1. Political posters have played a crucial role in campaigning since the 19th century. They were used to quickly catch voters' attention and communicate key messages.
  2. The artwork on these posters often included historical references, emotional imagery, and symbols to appeal to voters. This made them both informative and visually striking.
  3. As technology improved, the design of campaign posters evolved, leading to more colorful and complex images. This innovation mirrored the way political messages became more sophisticated over time.

Adam Carolla is Wrong

Points And Figures • 1678 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Governance Elections Public Policy Political culture
  1. Better forest management could help prevent severe wildfires. It involves clearing brush and controlled burns instead of just letting nature take its course.
  2. People who lost their homes in California fires are unlikely to change their political beliefs. Their deep-rooted views will not easily shift, regardless of the changes happening around them.
  3. Democrats typically expand government to solve problems, while Republicans lean toward private sector solutions. This difference affects how cities like San Francisco and New York handle their issues.

The Raunchy Right Has Triumphed

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 431 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Pop culture Political culture Media Society Trends
  1. A new MAGA-themed pinup calendar has been released, showing a shift in American culture influenced by conservative ideas.
  2. The calendar is promoted as a symbol of a 'golden age' by the company behind it, reflecting their political stance.
  3. This is part of a larger trend where conservative themes are becoming more prominent in pop culture and marketing.

Beautiful Wives

Magic + Loss • 377 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policies Gender Issues Public Opinion Political culture
  1. Melania Trump supports a woman's right to choose regarding abortion in her memoir. She believes women should have control over their own bodies.
  2. Donald Trump, however, plans to support a universal abortion ban if he is elected. He presents himself as a protector of women but implies that this will eliminate the need for abortion.
  3. The differing views between Melania and Donald Trump highlight a conflict in their beliefs about women's rights and autonomy.

A MAGA civil war is breaking out

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 10450 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Political culture Right-wing Social media
  1. There is a growing divide among pro-Trump supporters over immigration issues, especially related to H-1B visas that allow foreign workers into the tech industry.
  2. Elon Musk's influence in the MAGA movement has led to tensions, as some loyal supporters feel betrayed by his stance on bringing in foreign tech workers.
  3. This conflict represents a larger cultural divide within the Trump coalition, as traditional MAGA views on American jobs clash with the goals of tech billionaires.

Keep Calm, Carry On ... And Wait

The Weekly Dish • 180 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Public Opinion Political culture Media influence
  1. It's important to stay calm when dealing with political uncertainty. Panicking doesn't help, so taking a deep breath can be a good start.
  2. Waiting can sometimes be a strategic choice in politics. Instead of rushing to make decisions, giving things time might lead to better outcomes.
  3. Understanding the past can help us navigate current events. Reflecting on previous election cycles can give us insights into what might happen next.

Notes On the Great Vibe Shift

The Ruffian • 510 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political culture Social Change Corporate Policy Identity politics
  1. There has been a noticeable shift in company policies, with many businesses moving away from diversity and inclusion initiatives since Trump's second win. This suggests that leaders now feel free to express their true beliefs.
  2. Unlike in previous elections, Trump's return has not sparked widespread outrage or resistance, showing a possible acceptance from even his opponents. People are more willing to see him as a leader they can work with.
  3. This change in culture not only affects American workplaces but also extends internationally, with global leaders now more eager to engage with Trump than oppose him. It marks a return to more traditional values in politics and business.

Zuck orchestrates hiring blitz to take Meta back from the woke mob

The Dossier • 346 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Social media Censorship Ideology Political strategy
  1. Mark Zuckerberg is making changes at Meta to distance the company from political censorship and bring in people with different views. He recently hired individuals who support free speech.
  2. Zuckerberg seems determined to regain control of Meta, much like Elon Musk did with Twitter. He wants to ensure he doesn't lose influence over his own company.
  3. Despite facing strong opposition from within and outside Meta, Zuckerberg's strategy signals a shift towards more open discussions and less censorship on the platform.

Donald Trump and the Decivilizing of the Right

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 1975 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conservatism Political culture Election Analysis Trumpism
  1. American conservatism is changing in a way that some people compare to third world movements. This shift involves less focus on traditional values.
  2. The concept of 'Elite Human Capital' is about understanding who is crucial for maintaining strong institutions, not just about being smart. It suggests that even those who aren’t traditionally regarded as intelligent can still be valuable in certain roles.
  3. The flaws in the Trump movement highlight the importance of character and truth in political movements. When a political group idolizes someone who goes against these values, it signals a deeper issue within the movement.

On the Tory Cult of Personality and its Consequences

Wrong Side of History • 322 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Policy Political culture Nationalism Election Analysis
  1. The UK implemented open borders, which some believe was planned rather than accidental. Brexit provided a reason to change immigration policies.
  2. The previous government's approach to immigration seemed to be based on short-term goals and a belief that immigration was positive.
  3. Boris Johnson's leadership style appeared to be influenced by a desire for approval from elite groups, rather than focusing on nationalist policies.

How an IG famous squirrel became a MAGA martyr

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 1970 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Social media Government Overreach Election Dynamics
  1. Peanut the Squirrel was a popular social media pet whose death sparked political outrage on the right. People are using his story to criticize government actions and rally support for Trump.
  2. The incident highlights the way online communities can create narratives that may not resonate outside their circles. Many people don't seem to care about this story in the wider world.
  3. As the election approaches, some see the focus on Peanut as a sign of desperation from Trump supporters. They may be missing more serious issues by fixating on a squirrel's fate.

Reading/TV, Podcasts, and Elite Human Capital

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 633 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Media Studies Human Capital Socioeconomics
  1. Conservatives tend to prefer watching TV and listening to podcasts, while liberals often gravitate towards reading. This difference can impact how each group understands and interacts with politics.
  2. The cultural divide between people with varying levels of education and knowledge can shape political affiliations. Higher educated individuals are often more liberal, which has changed over the years.
  3. Political movements can share traits with both liberal and conservative ideologies. For example, right-leaning groups can sometimes exhibit characteristics similar to those found in some leftist groups.

the cult of the echos

bad cattitude • 220 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Social movements Censorship Echo Chambers Ideology
  1. People can mistake harmful groups for support, thinking they are safe when they are actually being isolated and manipulated.
  2. When a group only allows one opinion, it creates an echo chamber that cuts out other viewpoints, which is unhealthy.
  3. Those who tightly hold on to their beliefs may become more extreme and disconnected from reality, making it hard to communicate with those outside their group.

On Enjoying Election Year Halloween

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 755 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Political History Political culture Public Opinion
  1. Halloween is often overlooked during election years, and it's important to still enjoy it. Taking a break from serious politics can help people relax and have fun.
  2. Political discussions can sometimes be intense and stressful, but it's good to remember that elections are just one part of the bigger picture. People should engage in debates but not take everything so seriously.
  3. There's a noticeable audience demographic that engages with politicians differently, often balancing mainstream views with personal desires. This group can significantly influence future political trends.

Notes From the Periphery on the Recent Election in the Empire

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 186 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Political culture Media influence Public Discourse
  1. The writer is overwhelmed by the amount of political news and feels the need to express their thoughts to feel better. It's like trying to clear a cluttered mind.
  2. They think the long U.S. election cycle is unhealthy and wish it were shorter, similar to elections in other countries. This way, people could avoid the stress that comes with such extended campaigning.
  3. Despite their reluctance to write about politics, they feel it’s necessary for their mental well-being, which shows how important it is for people to talk about things that bother them.

Why I Hope Trump Will Win

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 215 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political culture Governance Bureaucracy Political Ideology
  1. The main issue in politics today is a big bureaucracy that keeps growing and makes things harder for everyone. This bureaucracy acts without clear control, making decisions that affect people negatively.
  2. Donald Trump is seen as a unique figure in politics because he openly challenges this bureaucratic system. He represents hope for those who want to push back against it.
  3. The problems caused by bureaucratic governance have been felt in many areas, like health and education. There is a desire for politicians to stand against this system and create a better future.

The decline continues

Disaffected Newsletter • 1998 implied HN points • 23 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Public Policy Community Engagement Political culture
  1. People are feeling more demoralized and hopeless in their daily lives. This feeling is like a constant annoying noise that they can't ignore, affecting their mood.
  2. Everyday behavior and rules of civility are declining. There seems to be a lack of respect and common courtesy in public spaces, making it a more dangerous and frustrating environment.
  3. Many people don't seem to agree on following basic rules anymore. This breakdown of etiquette is leading to confusion and chaos in social interactions, like drivers not knowing how to handle intersections.

The E_ection Special

Soaring Twenties • 170 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Political culture Partisanship Political Commentary
  1. Election season brings a lot of noise and chaos online. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by political talk and negative content.
  2. This writing aims to provide a break from the stressful election narratives. It encourages creativity and humor to lighten the mood.
  3. There are diverse essays and fictional pieces that tackle election themes in fun and unique ways. This makes political discussions more enjoyable and less serious.

Making America, Part 2

KERFUFFLE • 23 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
💾 History Cultural Studies Immigration Identity American history Political culture
  1. The term 'Scotch-Irish' was created in the mid-1800s to distinguish earlier Irish immigrants from a later wave that faced backlash. Many who identified as Scotch-Irish didn't even see themselves as Scottish, having roots in Ireland for generations.
  2. Scotch-Irish people were often Presbyterians and not as poor as the later Irish immigrants. They had jobs in industries like wool and linen in their home area of Ulster before coming to America.
  3. Over time, the Scotch-Irish began to identify more with their new American states rather than Ireland or Scotland. Their experiences reflect the idea of America as a place where people seek a better life, shedding old identities.

Disconnection, Sectarianism, and Democracy

Theory Matters • 3 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Polarization Political culture Social relations
  1. People today feel disconnected and angry, which is affecting relationships and politics. This lack of connection makes it harder to resolve issues in our democratic systems.
  2. Sectarianism, or deep divisions based on political identity rather than just ideas, is becoming a serious problem. When we dislike those on the other side more than we support democracy, it threatens our political stability.
  3. To improve democracy, we need to focus on our interactions and connections with each other. If we can't accept losing gracefully or see others as allies, democracy will struggle to survive.

The Curse Of Zhou Bai Den.

Trying to Understand the World • 9 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Media influence International relations Cultural Identity Historical context
  1. Many European countries seem overly focused on US politics, often ignoring important issues happening in their own nations. This shows a lack of balance in how they engage with global affairs.
  2. There's a trend where European elites adopt American cultural and social norms without questioning them, which often doesn't fit well with their own histories and values. This can lead to confusion and loss of cultural identity.
  3. The historical experiences of Europe differ greatly from those of the US, leading to a disconnect in understanding and addressing global issues. Many Europeans are grappling with their past while trying to navigate a future influenced by American ideals.

America's State Capture

Diane Francis • 939 implied HN points • 21 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political corruption Gun Violence Elections Security Political culture
  1. Political violence is rising in America, making public life more dangerous for officials. Many politicians, like Mitt Romney, now need personal security due to threats.
  2. The influence of private interests on government, called 'state capture,' is leading to corruption and intimidation in American politics. Politicians feel pressured to behave in ways that benefit these interests.
  3. Warnings from other countries about America's gun culture are increasing. Travelers are advised to be careful due to the high rate of gun violence.

Reminder: Zoom Call Tonight

Nonzero Newsletter • 112 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political culture Public Policy Civic engagement
  1. There's a Zoom call happening tonight at 8 PM US Eastern Time. It's for NZN members to talk about the election and what's next.
  2. The call will last for 90 minutes or until all questions are answered. It's a good chance to discuss important topics.
  3. You can join using the provided link to ask questions and share thoughts with others.

The Outer Borough Mind

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 89 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Behavior Political culture Political History Public Opinion
  1. Donald Trump embodies the outer borough mindset, which contrasts with the Manhattan elite. Many people from Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx feel a sense of envy and resentment toward Manhattan.
  2. Trump's desire to break into Manhattan comes from his upbringing in a wealthy, but somewhat isolated, neighborhood. He sees Manhattan as a place of power that he can never fully belong to.
  3. The outer borough communities are changing politically, with many people feeling abandoned by traditional parties. Trump's message resonates with them, as they see him as a reflection of their struggles and ambitions.