The hottest Political Discourse Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics

We need to start recognizing stan psyops

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 4807 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Pop culture Media Literacy Social media Entertainment Political Discourse
  1. Stan accounts are really good at creating viral content to stir up strong emotions online. They use clever tactics to get people talking and sharing posts, often about celebrities.
  2. These stan tactics are not just in pop culture; they can affect politics too. Influencers and political accounts may use similar methods to manipulate public opinions and sway important discussions.
  3. It's important to recognize these strategies when we see them. Understanding how both entertainment and politics can be influenced by these tactics helps us navigate online content more wisely.

The Price Of Orthodoxies

The Weekly Dish • 186 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Social Issues Media Criticism Cultural critique Justice System
  1. Orthodoxies can make us ignore hard truths and the suffering of others. They create blind spots that can hide serious issues.
  2. When we stick too closely to a certain belief or idea, we might miss out on understanding the full picture of what's really happening.
  3. It's important to challenge our beliefs and stay open to new information, so we can see and address injustices.

Slavery was bad

Slow Boring • 7095 implied HN points • 25 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History Economics Slavery Political Discourse Capitalism
  1. Slaveowners among America's founding fathers knew slavery was bad, but still profited from it.
  2. In the early 19th century, the South shifted to viewing slavery as a 'positive good,' leading to political divides and eventually the Civil War.
  3. A new paper by economic historians argues that the costs of slavery far outweighed the benefits, likening enslavement to theft.

Is Elon Musk a raging free speech hypocrite?

Jeff Giesea • 539 implied HN points • 10 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Censorship Media Critique Public Figures Political Discourse
  1. Elon Musk often criticizes Western democracies like the UK for free speech restrictions but is quiet about countries with worse situations, such as Saudi Arabia and China.
  2. His approach to free speech seems inconsistent. While he claims to support it, some of his actions, like limiting competition on X, look hypocritical.
  3. Many feel Musk isn't doing a good job managing free expression on X. His spontaneous tweets and decisions can hurt the cause of free speech instead of helping it.

In latest effort to deny reality, leftist German word police announce that a standard colloquialism for 'ethnic German' is racist, exclusionary and antidemocratic

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 224 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural critique Racism Political Discourse Identity politics
  1. In Germany, there's a group that decides every year on a word they find unacceptable, calling it the 'Unword of the Year.' This word is often seen as politically incorrect.
  2. The latest 'Unword' chosen is 'biodeutsch,' which means ethnic German. This term is now said to be racist, even though it was originally used to highlight distinctions in identity.
  3. 'Unwords' aim to create awareness about harmful language, but critics argue it actually limits free speech and the ability to discuss cultural identities openly.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Elon Musk, undeterred by days of German political hyperventilation, continues to promote fascism and undermine democracy by tweeting things and scheduling interviews with people

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 295 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Democracy issues Media influence International relations Election interference
  1. Elon Musk is facing criticism in Germany for his tweets that some view as undermining democracy. Many people are particularly concerned about his support for a far-right political party called Alternative für Deutschland.
  2. German politicians and journalists are reacting strongly against Musk's comments. They are worried that his influence could disrupt democratic processes in the country.
  3. There are calls from German leaders for Musk to stop interfering in their political affairs. They emphasize the importance of protecting democracy and the need for responsible communication from influential figures.

The Forbidden Fruit of Politically Volatile Dick

Default Wisdom • 506 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Gender Studies Social media Political Discourse Feminism Masculinity
  1. The Gender War on social media shows how right-wing men and left-wing women attract each other based on their perceived strengths and weaknesses. This tension often leads to extreme views and oversimplified narratives about gender roles.
  2. Many discussions about the Manosphere and movements like the 4B are too simplistic. The realities of these movements are often misrepresented in popular media, failing to capture the cultural and contextual nuances behind them.
  3. Relationships between people from opposing sides (like leftists and rightists) often explore themes of power and vulnerability. These dynamics can highlight underlying attractions that aren't just about politics but also psychological complexities.

The chilling dawn of multiracial fascism

Wrong Side of History • 650 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Populism Party Dynamics Political Discourse
  1. Democrats are losing popularity because people care more about rising prices than political debates. Many voters prioritize their economic well-being over party loyalty.
  2. Trump has changed the game by uniting different racial groups in his support. His approach shows that diversity can work well in politics, differing from traditional views.
  3. Right-wing populism may be growing in non-traditional ways, with diverse communities supporting it. This reflects a shift in how voters align their beliefs with political parties.

Homosexuals: this is a turning point

Disaffected Newsletter • 4516 implied HN points • 16 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural critique Social Commentary Political Discourse Public Perception
  1. The recent incident in the Senate highlights a cultural decline that needs addressing. It's important to recognize that many people are rightly disgusted by it.
  2. Homosexuals should not react defensively but align with the broader public. Acknowledging shared values like decency and respect can help build connections.
  3. Our society is facing serious issues, and finding common ground with straights and conservatives can lead to a collective effort to restore order and sanity.

POSIWID and the Moderate Liberal Meltdown

Letters from Fiddler's Greene • 3478 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Policy Civil Rights Political Discourse
  1. POSIWID principle emphasizes that the purpose of a system is what it does, leading to accountability and prevention of excuses.
  2. Political discourse on the right is increasingly incorporating the POSIWID principle to analyze and address complex system-level issues.
  3. There is a disconnect in moderate liberal views, as they advocate for meritocracy while ignoring the actual results of policies and systems, highlighting the importance of honesty in addressing societal issues.

We're all borderline now

Disaffected Newsletter • 2198 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Mental health Media influence Political Discourse Social Dynamics Crisis Management
  1. Many people are feeling confused and overwhelmed because of constant lies and craziness around them. This affects everyone, no matter their political beliefs.
  2. We're all starting to show signs of being more emotionally unstable, like having a mix of strong negative feelings and losing touch with reality.
  3. Despite the anger towards those we disagree with, there's a growing sense of empathy and sadness for everyone's struggles. It reminds us that we all want a better world based on understanding and kindness.

The MAGA Civil War Over H-1B Visas

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 180 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Political Discourse Identity politics Policy Analysis
  1. The H-1B visa program allows U.S. companies to hire skilled workers from abroad, mainly benefiting tech companies that want to pay lower wages. It has become a point of conflict within the MAGA movement.
  2. Supporters of the program argue that it helps bring in talented workers that American companies need. However, critics say it creates a system that exploits workers and harms American wages.
  3. The debate over H-1B visas has highlighted deeper divisions in the right, between those who support immigration as part of America's identity and those who view it through a lens of racism and protectionism.

Sloth was not the right answer

DYNOMIGHT INTERNET NEWSLETTER • 625 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Behavior Political Discourse Public Opinion Immigration
  1. People often let politics affect their emotions too much, which can lead to unhappiness and frustration. It's better to focus on deeper and more meaningful conversations.
  2. Many view slanted information in politics as normal, but this approach can prevent good ideas from spreading effectively. It's important to look for objective facts instead of just picking sides.
  3. The upcoming US presidential election will be influenced by factors such as immigration, inflation, and candidate popularity. Understanding these can help make sense of the election dynamics.

Misinformation isn't actually the problem

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 499 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Misinformation Political Discourse Media Critique Election Issues
  1. We often mix up different types of information, treating small issues as serious threats. This can confuse people about what really matters.
  2. Instead of just blaming misinformation, we should look at how we compare different topics. Some things shouldn't get the same level of attention.
  3. The real problem isn't just fake news; it's the way we discuss all these issues and the weight we give them in public conversations.

UNCOUTH.

The Future, Now and Then • 301 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Government Accountability Election Integrity Public Perception
  1. Hunter Biden's situation shows how the media and political elites often care more about appearances than actual justice. His prison time and pardon seem to reflect more on his family name than the crimes he committed.
  2. The response to Joe Biden pardoning his son highlights how elites prioritize maintaining social order and propriety over accountability. There's a certain way presidents are expected to behave, which can shield them from criticism.
  3. Democracy works best when there's a balance between the elites and the public. However, current actions by political and media figures often miss the opportunity to question or resist power, favoring stability instead.

You will never be good enough to belong

Men Yell at Me • 823 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Women's Rights Military Policy Political Discourse Gender Issues Party Politics
  1. Some people, like Pete Hegseth, don't believe women should serve in combat roles in the military, even if they meet the same standards as men. This shows a big gap in acceptance and equality.
  2. There is a growing narrative that men feel entitled to roles traditionally held by them and see the rise of women and minorities in the military as a threat. This reflects a larger struggle over who truly belongs in these spaces.
  3. Women and minorities often have to prove themselves more than men to earn their place, regardless of qualifications. This highlights an ongoing challenge for equality in many areas, not just the military.

How Do We Understand Culture?

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 65 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Cultural criticism Political Discourse Social movements Cultural History Contemporary Issues
  1. There is a shift in how political resistance works, moving from large protests to quieter, more organized actions. Many feel that the energy and fervor of past movements are not as strong anymore.
  2. Critics argue that cultural writing needs solid evidence to make its points, but understanding culture can be subjective and may not always rely on hard data. Feelings and personal experiences can be valid, even if they aren't quantifiable.
  3. The political landscape is always changing, and understanding today's culture requires looking at the current situation rather than relying on the past. It's important to ask questions about what is happening now instead of just referring to old patterns.

leaving in a huff

bad cattitude • 327 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Social media Media Criticism Identity politics Public Opinion
  1. Some people are leaving social media platforms because they can't handle disagreements about their ideas. Instead of debating, they prefer to retreat to spaces where only their views are accepted.
  2. When someone sees their beliefs challenged, it can feel like a personal attack. This can lead to a strong reaction, making them defensive and unwilling to explore other viewpoints.
  3. The focus on consensus can lead to a false sense of security. People may feel more comfortable in like-minded groups, but this limits healthy discussions and the chance to grow through different opinions.

Curator

Castalia • 519 implied HN points • 23 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Institutions Ideology Political Discourse Censorship
  1. Many traditional institutions, like PEN America and NPR, are struggling because they tried to overly cater to progressive demands but ended up alienating audiences. It's important for these organizations to return to their core missions and values.
  2. The New York Times seems to be adjusting its approach to reporting and emphasizing independence after a difficult period, while other outlets continue to face public trust issues due to perceived ideological bias.
  3. The so-called 'Intellectual Dark Web' has gained attention for their critiques of mainstream discourse, but many still view them with suspicion. This shows a need for open conversations and diverse perspectives, especially in today's polarized political climate.

Today's the day

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1169 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Election Impact Mental health Political Discourse
  1. Election day is important for public health in the U.S. It can greatly affect how health policies are shaped and implemented.
  2. Open conversations between different political groups are crucial for building trust in public health. Everyone needs to work together to improve health outcomes.
  3. No matter the election result, those in public health will keep fighting for better health for everyone. The commitment to serve the public remains strong.

True Bipartisanship! America's Ruling Class Joins Hands to Say Violence Against the Ruling Class is Never the Answer.

JoeWrote • 192 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Bipartisanship Working Class Healthcare Corporate Power Political Discourse
  1. There's a big divide in America between the working class who face tough healthcare choices and the wealthy elite who don't understand these struggles. Many people feel sympathy for those who resort to extreme actions out of frustration with the healthcare system.
  2. Regulations and profit-driven decisions in the healthcare industry often lead to people being denied medical care, resulting in serious consequences for families. The focus on profits can make it seem like lives are less important.
  3. While some defend the actions of healthcare executives as just following rules, many believe that this mindset excuses harmful policies. The working class wants accountability from those who benefit from a system that puts profit over people's health.

Parler is Back!

Who is Robert Malone • 12 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Health Freedom Social media Censorship Political Discourse
  1. Parler is back online, aiming to be a safe space for free speech and open discussions about health and politics. It's a platform where people can express their views without the fear of censorship.
  2. Over the years, Parler faced challenges and was even deplatformed by major tech companies, highlighting the struggle for free expression in today's digital age. This situation raises questions about how much control big tech should have over public conversations.
  3. Now, with a renewed focus on health freedom and individual rights, Parler wants to encourage open dialogue and protect the right to speak up. It stands as a reminder of the importance of free speech in society.

Feral Joe: A Series: II

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 299 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Political parties Public Opinion Political Discourse
  1. The election is portrayed as a clear choice between decency and a lack of it. It's important to consider character when voting.
  2. Joe Biden emphasizes that Donald Trump has made false claims and spread misinformation, which is harmful to those in need.
  3. Biden also stresses the importance of holding leaders accountable for their actions and statements, especially in times of crisis.

“Senator, Saying It Doesn't Make It True”

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 599 implied HN points • 19 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Insurance Issues Political Discourse Government Accountability
  1. The health insurance industry often uses certain lawmakers to protect their profits when faced with regulatory changes. This means politicians sometimes reinforce misleading talking points to serve big insurance companies.
  2. Senator Kennedy challenged Health and Human Services Secretary Becerra with claims about Medicare Advantage savings that are based on questionable research. These figures have been promoted by the insurance industry to create a positive image of their plans.
  3. Becerra pushed back against Kennedy's claims, stating that funding for Medicare Advantage has increased, countering the argument that the administration is cutting funds. This highlights the ongoing debate over the true costs and benefits of these healthcare plans.

joy will be mandatory

bad cattitude • 284 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Ideology Society Culture Wars Political Discourse Public Opinion
  1. People are increasingly divided, creating separate realities that don’t share common facts or agreements. This lack of mutual understanding makes it hard for society to come together.
  2. There seems to be a strong trend of intolerance among those who claim to be progressive. They often reject differing opinions and quickly excommunicate those who think differently.
  3. A big issue is the isolation and echo chambers people find themselves in. It's important for individuals to engage with diverse perspectives to avoid losing touch with reality.

Anti-white bigotry is real and a clear and present danger

Disaffected Newsletter • 1838 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Race Issues Social justice Identity politics Political Discourse Civil Rights
  1. Anti-white bigotry exists and needs to be recognized. It's important to acknowledge that not everyone experiences the same treatment based on their race.
  2. Many white people feel a sense of fear or shame about discussing their experiences. This reluctance could lead to negative consequences if not addressed.
  3. There's a call to action for white individuals to express their concerns and experiences more openly. It’s vital for everyone to feel safe and heard, regardless of their background.

Why I’m staying on Twitter/X

The Path Not Taken • 198 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Social media Election Impact Public Opinion
  1. Some people are leaving Twitter/X because they are unhappy with Elon Musk's influence, especially regarding politics. Many worry about the site's changes and direction.
  2. Staying on the platform allows users to engage with its diverse community, which has existed even before Musk. There's a belief that leaving could give up the chance to shape conversations that happen there.
  3. Critics of Musk should be careful not to isolate themselves. A lot of people still use Twitter/X for non-political content, and staying might help keep progressive voices active on the platform.

Free Speech Is Actually Really Simple

Castalia • 1278 implied HN points • 05 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech First Amendment Civil Rights Political Discourse Media Regulation
  1. Free speech is important because it allows everyone to express their ideas, even the ones that are controversial. When we let others speak freely, we protect our own right to speak up too.
  2. There are some concerns that free speech can support harmful ideas or groups. However, allowing open discussion can help check power and make society stronger over time.
  3. Private companies can set their own speech rules, but this can create problems and complicate open discussions. It's often better to stick with the basic idea of free speech to keep conversations simple and honest.

I got hold of a copy of the "Woke Agenda"... and it's SUPERBAD

So Here’s a Thing • 1435 implied HN points • 12 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Political Ideologies Political Discourse Policy Making Voting behavior
  1. The concept of extending care and compassion to all individuals, regardless of differences, is crucial in today's world.
  2. The 'Woke Agenda' is often misrepresented by some as promoting communism when in reality, it advocates for simple kindness and understanding.
  3. The divide between right-wing and left-wing ideologies lies in the willingness to bridge gaps or widen them, with the importance of empathy and unity being central to societal progress.

We Argue in Metaphors

In My Tribe • 622 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Media influence Public Opinion
  1. We often use metaphors in our discussions, which can make our points unclear. It's important to recognize that metaphors can be helpful but aren't always perfectly accurate.
  2. When we disagree, it can help to focus on the implications of the metaphors we're using. If we can agree on what those implications are, we might find common ground.
  3. Differences in opinion often come from how we interpret metaphors. It's okay to have different views, but we should try to understand why the other person believes what they do.

Network News And The Wannabe Dictators

Richard Lewis • 1297 implied HN points • 17 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Presidents Election Political Discourse
  1. FOX News used a provocative chyron about Biden and Trump, stirring controversy.
  2. Media outlets across the political spectrum have engaged in hyperbolic language towards political figures, including calling Trump a dictator.
  3. Biden's actions and statements have also been scrutinized for behavior that could align with the characteristics of a dictator, challenging the perception of who fits that label.

No News is Good News

Soaring Twenties • 123 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Public Opinion Political Discourse Journalism Ethics Information Consumption
  1. Consuming news can drain your energy and happiness. It's often filled with negativity and sensationalism that can leave you feeling stressed and confused.
  2. People often think they need news to be informed or good citizens, but this belief doesn’t really hold up. Most news doesn't significantly impact your life or help you make better decisions.
  3. Instead of following the news, focus on your local community and the things you can actually influence. True understanding comes from deeper reading and personal experiences, not from constant news updates.

a Based and Brave reply to Chris Rufo

Karlstack • 390 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Identity politics Foreign Relations Political Discourse Censorship
  1. Some people believe there's a serious issue in American politics, especially regarding foreign influence and how it conflicts with the country's interests.
  2. There's a conversation about how identity politics can shape responses to conflicts, but this can ignore the real suffering of people on the ground.
  3. Criticism of certain narratives can lead to consequences for individuals, showing a tension between free speech and the protection of specific communities.

The banality of paranoia

White Hot Harlots • 219 implied HN points • 16 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conservatism Liberalism Conspiracy Theories Elections Political Discourse
  1. The article discusses how incoherent paranoia is not exclusive to conservatives, and how left-wing ideologies have also been associated with similar beliefs in the past.
  2. The text explores the evolving perceptions of masculinity and how cultural shifts have impacted ideologies over time.
  3. It highlights the universal trend of increasing distrust in established systems of power among conservatives and liberals, leading to a loss of faith in electoral politics and expert narratives.