The hottest Political culture Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

One Sneaky Reason Why Sports Media Shunned Kamala Harris

House of Strauss • 44 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Campaign Strategy Political culture Media influence Voter Demographics Elections
  1. Kamala Harris struggled to connect with the sports media, which is a vital cultural space in America. This made it hard for her campaign to reach younger audiences who are more engaged with sports than with traditional politics.
  2. Young men have shifted their political support away from the Democrats, making it tough for the party to connect with this demographic. This change has been influenced by cultural figures and platforms that resonate more with younger guys.
  3. Sports media is becoming more conservative, which complicates efforts from political figures like Harris to gain support. As sports and culture merge with conservative values, it becomes tricky for athletes and media personalities to engage in politics.

OSD 299: What a president can do

Open Source Defense • 56 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gun Rights Executive Power Political culture Legislation
  1. Historically, pro-gun presidents haven't made major changes once in office. This shows that having the right president isn't always enough for gun rights.
  2. The president can still take meaningful actions to support gun rights, but many of these require working with Congress. Some changes can be done alone, but they're often not pursued.
  3. Eventually, culture and technology around gun rights will matter more than politics. Even if presidents don't act, gun rights may keep growing thanks to shifts in public opinion and advances in tech.

A Postmortem On Postmortems

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 211 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Voter Behavior Government Political culture
  1. People often feel confused and frustrated about political events. It can be hard to understand how things happen and why they affect us deeply.
  2. There's a sense of humor that can help us cope with current political chaos. Laughing about tough situations can be a way to deal with stress.
  3. Despite political problems, life continues with many important aspects outside of politics. Family, friends, and personal experiences still matter a lot.

HHS and MAHA Appointments

Who is Robert Malone • 33 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Political culture Government Elections Health Policy
  1. Populist movements often promise big changes but usually fall short in meeting people's expectations. History shows these movements can struggle against powerful political systems.
  2. New appointments in the HHS are raising concerns among supporters who expected leaders focused on 'medical freedom.' Many feel let down as the new choices seem to favor established interests.
  3. The journey towards significant reform in politics takes time and requires patience. It’s essential to focus on long-term goals while staying true to personal values and principles.

Curator

Castalia • 359 implied HN points • 07 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Liberalism Progressivism Social Issues
  1. Ibram X. Kendi's antiracism center faced serious management issues and the fall of his reputation raises questions about the integrity of institutions that supported him. Some people feel a sense of schadenfreude, while others see it as a sign that these institutions failed to critically assess what they were promoting.
  2. Critics argue that a central problem is the way ideas about racism and anti-racism have been oversimplified and sensationalized, leading to a pessimistic view of progress in America. This shift has made discussing genuine progress much harder, as some now view racism as an inescapable reality.
  3. The conversation about marriage's role in happiness sparks tension, as some view the emphasis on marriage as a right-wing distraction. However, data suggests that married people report higher satisfaction, indicating that the benefits of marriage should not be easily dismissed in debates about family and societal values.
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America's Growth Addiction

From the New World • 26 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Bureaucracy Regulation Political culture Economics
  1. America is divided between two cultures: the Paper Belt, focused on bureaucracy and regulation, and the Silicon Road, driven by innovation and growth.
  2. Both these cultures have a strong desire for growth, but they express it differently. The Paper Belt seeks to expand influence through politics, while the Silicon Road strives for commercial expansion and innovation.
  3. Normal people's lives are caught in the middle of these two powerful systems, affecting their everyday experiences and opportunities.

Why Science Dominates China’s Political Culture

ChinaTalk • 429 implied HN points • 09 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics China Political culture Nationalism Ideology
  1. Science is a national quest in China, driven by nationalism, with a focus on achieving technological advancement and international prestige.
  2. China's modernization history saw the concept of science elevated from a mere tool to a grand narrative that influences the evaluation of national power.
  3. The CCP's focus on science and technology as a central value raises questions about the impact of scientism on China's future progress and international relations.

December 1, 2024

Letters from an American • 19 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political parties Legislation Political culture
  1. Trump's administration is focusing on appointing loyalists to key government positions, which could undermine the institutions that support democracy. This is seen as a move towards authoritarianism.
  2. The appointments Trump is making are raising concerns about qualifications, with individuals lacking experience being placed in powerful roles. This could lead to a decrease in the effectiveness of these agencies.
  3. There is a growing fear that under Trump, the government might be used to settle personal scores and attack those who oppose him, as seen with the treatment of whistleblowers and critics.

November 23, 2024

Letters from an American • 22 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political News Current Events American history Political culture Election Analysis
  1. Every season brings a unique vibe. Autumn, for example, mixes a sense of fun with simplicity and beauty.
  2. There’s an ongoing cycle of work and rest in life. After the busy months, it’s important to take quiet moments to recharge.
  3. Nature and daily life are closely connected. As the seasons change, so do the activities and experiences we encounter.

Re-post: Welcome to Disaffected

Disaffected Newsletter • 499 implied HN points • 30 Dec 22
🎭️ Culture Mental health Family Dynamics Political culture Psychology Social Commentary
  1. Understanding Cluster B personality disorders can help explain certain behaviors seen in both personal relationships and broader society. It's important to recognize these patterns to better navigate relationships.
  2. The author's experiences with their mother's behavior highlight the impact of narcissism and emotional instability, which can lead to trauma and dysfunction in families.
  3. Current cultural issues reflect similar behaviors seen in Cluster B personalities, suggesting that these traits are not just personal but also prevalent in politics and media today.

Reflections on Scotland's Political Culture (1/4)

The Joyous Struggle • 118 implied HN points • 06 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Political culture National Identity Global Politics
  1. Metapolitical thinking involves questioning and renewing our political premises and motivations as contexts change.
  2. In times of instability and transition, unity in politics can falter, leading to disagreements without common ground and a loss of shared reality.
  3. The concept of nationhood is both significant and arbitrary, urging us to understand our political and metapolitical perspectives to navigate global challenges.

The New Government Apprentice

Critical Mass • 10 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Trump Media Political culture
  1. The second Trump presidency is being approached like a reality show, focusing on the personalities involved rather than traditional politics. Trump understands how to engage people and keep interest high.
  2. There are key roles being filled by TV personalities and figures known for their controversial behavior, which adds drama to the political landscape. This includes familiar 'good guy' and 'bad boy' roles from reality shows.
  3. The upcoming president and cabinet seem to prioritize media appeal and entertainment value over conventional qualifications, promising an unpredictable and engaging political environment.

Is Civil War Near?

Diane Francis • 619 implied HN points • 06 Jan 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Political culture Historical context Social Issues Conflict
  1. The United States has not fully resolved issues from its first civil war. Many African Americans continued to face discrimination and disenfranchisement long after the war ended.
  2. On the anniversary of the Capitol riot, there's concern about escalating political tensions in America. However, the author suggests a new civil war is unlikely.
  3. The ongoing struggles for equality indicate that the country still has significant work to do. Addressing these issues is crucial to prevent future conflict.

In the Shallows Of The Deep State.

Trying to Understand the World • 5 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Government Structure Public Policy Political History Political culture
  1. The idea of a 'Deep State' has become popular as people try to explain political power hidden behind the scenes. It's used to describe unseen influences that control governments and decisions.
  2. Many people find comfort in believing that chaos has some hidden plan or control, rather than accepting that the world could be disorganized and unpredictable.
  3. In Western societies, trust in political leaders is low, leading people to think there might be secret groups managing things better than visible leaders, which can help make sense of troubling events.

The United States of Anarchy

Diane Francis • 559 implied HN points • 25 Mar 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gun Control Mass Shootings Political culture Public Policy
  1. Gun violence is a huge problem in the U.S., with mass shootings happening frequently and laws not changing much afterwards. Many find it easier to buy guns than to vote or drink beer.
  2. Many mass shooters are men who have a deep attachment to guns, often stemming from feelings of insecurity about their masculinity and societal role. This cultural issue is tied to their identity and coping mechanisms.
  3. Other countries have successfully reduced gun violence through stricter regulations, but in the U.S., debates over gun rights often lead to shouting matches without real solutions being implemented.

Jo Freeman and Political Culture

Center for Veb Account Research Newsletter • 3 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Party Dynamics Political Analysis Social movements Electoral Politics
  1. The Democratic Party sees power moving upwards from its members to leaders, while the Republican Party has a downward flow of power from leaders to members. This shapes how each party operates.
  2. Democrats feel like outsiders even when in power, always pushing to be heard, while Republicans view themselves as insiders, focusing on achieving consensus.
  3. Organizational conflict is normal in the Democratic Party, serving as a way for groups to gain influence. In contrast, Republican conflicts are more private and emphasize public loyalty.

La politique de l’épuisement et l’épuisement de la politique.

Trying to Understand the World • 1 implied HN point • 25 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Political trends Political History Political culture Political Satire
  1. There are two main ways to interact with the past: one is to preserve and recreate it, while the other is to use it as inspiration to create something new. In modern society, the past is often exploited for political and financial gain.
  2. Today's politics often feels like a caricature, where real meaning and ideology are lost. Politicians focus more on getting attention rather than discussing significant issues, leading to extreme and superficial debates.
  3. Modern culture has become repetitive and disconnected from its roots, resulting in a shallow experience. This has affected how we create and appreciate art and culture, leading to a cycle of exhaustion and emptiness.

Book Review: Ours Was the Shining Future

Christopher Wan’s Newsletter • 4 implied HN points • 31 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture
  1. The decline of the American Dream is suggested as the root cause of many societal ills in modern America.
  2. Investment in technology and basic research by the government is crucial for future prosperity and societal advancement.
  3. Reviving the American Dream may require empowering the working class, changing cultural attitudes towards business, and restructuring government for better representation.

The Fundie Baby Voice

The View from Rural Missouri by Jess Piper • 1 HN point • 08 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Social Commentary Conservatism Women's issues Feminism
  1. The 'fundie baby voice' is a soft, high-pitched, breathy tone often used by some women in Fundamentalist communities to show submission and sweetness.
  2. This voice can be habitual for some women or used to hide secrets, but it doesn't always indicate malice; some just follow learned behavior.
  3. When powerful figures speak with the 'fundie baby voice', it can signal a mix of condescension and submission to maintain proximity and favor with those in power.

The Balloon Panic and the Wages of Threat Inflation

Eunomia • 2 HN points • 13 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy National Security Political culture
  1. The U.S. is saturated in constant fearmongering about foreign dangers, leading to exaggerated responses to real or imagined threats.
  2. Hawks often exaggerate threats to push for aggressive policies, fueling irrational fears within the public.
  3. Policymakers feel pressured to respond aggressively to minor incidents to prove toughness, contributing to a cycle of escalating tensions.

Hypocrisy and Libertarianism

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 22 Jun 11
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Libertarianism Authoritarianism Political culture
  1. Hypocrisy in politics often comes from people promoting strict rules they don't follow themselves. For example, a politician who wants to ban something but does it anyway shows personal or political hypocrisy.
  2. The idea of hypocrisy is mainly linked to authoritarian views. If someone supports a policy that restricts others' freedoms but doesn't follow it, that's when the accusations fly.
  3. Even if someone benefits from a policy they oppose, like a politician using Medicare, it doesn't always make them a hypocrite. People can still operate within the system while wanting to change it.

On Representation

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 09 Oct 11
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Representation Elections Communications Political culture
  1. Members of the House can now easily reach a national audience thanks to social media, allowing them to represent issues beyond their local districts. This change helps them gain more visibility and fundraising opportunities.
  2. The increase in online communication means Members can't ignore national issues, even if they want to focus solely on their local constituents. This shift can distort how they understand the needs of their district.
  3. Voters seem to be becoming more nationalized too, which may push Members to focus more on national trends rather than local concerns. This could lead to a loss of traditional local representation in House elections.

Twelve minutes of popular sovereignty

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 08 Nov 11
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Civic engagement Political culture
  1. Voting can feel special and meaningful, like being part of something bigger. It's a chance to connect with history and the future every time you cast your vote.
  2. Going to the polls is a mix of excitement and calm. It's quieter now than in the past, but that doesn't make it any less important.
  3. The process of voting has changed over time, with new technology making it easier. But the feeling of participating in democracy stays the same.

North vs. South (side of the Capitol, that is)

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 21 Dec 11
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Partisanship Elections Governance Political culture
  1. Representatives serve shorter terms and pay closer attention to the immediate needs of their constituents. Senators have longer terms, so they can focus on long-term issues without the pressure of frequent elections.
  2. The rules and structures of the House and Senate are different, leading to different power dynamics. The House allows majority rule, while the Senate requires more consensus for decisions, creating potential conflicts.
  3. Voters may have different expectations for their Representatives and Senators. This can affect how each chamber approaches policy decisions and negotiations with each other.

Turnover

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 07 Feb 12
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Congress Political culture Staffing Employment Trends
  1. High staff turnover can affect the efficiency of congressional offices, but it's not always as serious as it seems. Many staffers move between offices, which can mean they still have valuable experience.
  2. The study on turnover is affected by unique situations, like the 2010 election when many staffers changed jobs because of a big shakeup. This makes the data a bit tricky to interpret.
  3. Spending more on staff salaries doesn't automatically make offices better at representing their constituents. Each office has a budget that also covers things like supplies and communications.

Not my favorite holiday

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 17 Feb 12
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Historical Figures Democracy Civic engagement
  1. Some holidays, like Columbus Day, may not hold much cultural significance and often aren't celebrated outside of being a day off work.
  2. The author feels uncomfortable with the way we honor political figures, particularly George Washington, believing that democracy is more about the collective efforts of many people rather than individual heroism.
  3. Instead of celebrating specific leaders, the author suggests we should focus on holidays that recognize broader accomplishments, like Constitution Day or a day celebrating civil rights victories.

Tonight: A Morman, a statesman, and a libertarian all slam Santorum!

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 22 Feb 12
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Debates Political culture Government
  1. A debate is happening tonight and it will showcase opinions from different political views. It should be interesting to see what everyone has to say about Santorum.
  2. The author plans to enjoy the debate with some drinks, likely making margaritas with tequila. It's a casual and fun way to watch the event.
  3. The author also plans to live-tweet their thoughts during the debate. It will be a way to engage with others and share reactions in real time.

Elecshun Dae

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 03 Nov 14
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Political Analysis Campaigning Political culture
  1. Avoid watching TV on election day until the evening. The coverage is usually filled with meaningless chatter and not useful information.
  2. Focus on key Senate races and House bellwethers. Knowing a few important races helps you understand overall election results better.
  3. Engage in conversations about the election. Talking to different people can provide insight and make the day more enjoyable.

Authenticity in politics

Theory Matters • 0 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political culture Political Trust Political Ethics Political Communication
  1. Authenticity means accepting ourselves, flaws and all. It's not about being perfect, but being real and honest.
  2. We often want authenticity in politics, but many politicians hide their true selves. This creates a gap between them and the public, making it hard to trust them.
  3. Some famous figures, like Trump, are seen as authentic because they openly show who they are, even if it's not always good. This honesty can help voters make better choices.

FIVE POINTS: Frosted Flakes of Scorn

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 27 Oct 17
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Congress Political culture Electoral Politics Political theory
  1. 1. Passing a congressional budget resolution isn't that big of a deal. It sets some spending limits, but it doesn't actually cut spending or guarantee any laws will pass.
  2. 2. The work environment in Congress can be tough for young women, highlighting the need to address sexual harassment issues in that unique culture.
  3. 3. Senator Jeff Flake is well-liked for his kindness and politeness. Even though he's stepping down, many will miss his respectful approach to politics.

The Freak Show

The Oasis • 0 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Media Social Issues Public Opinion Political parties
  1. TikTok has become a major platform that showcases a variety of eccentric behavior, giving a voice to those who may feel marginalized. It allows users to express themselves in ways that challenge traditional norms.
  2. The content on TikTok often reflects deeper cultural issues, revealing societal anxieties and the struggles of many individuals. People use the platform to share their experiences and frustrations with the world.
  3. The rise of TikTok highlights a shift in how we engage with media and culture, potentially affecting political landscapes. It allows for a normalization of what some consider odd or unconventional, which can confuse or alarm others.