The hottest Political Discourse Substack posts right now

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

Don't Let Anyone Tell You Americans Are Too Polarized to Disagree Passionately but Productively

Journal of Free Black Thought • 37 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Race relations Public Engagement Community Building
  1. People can have deep and respectful discussions about tough topics, even when they disagree. It's possible to talk about sensitive issues without ending friendships.
  2. The recent meetup showed that when diverse individuals share their views and listen to each other, meaningful conversations can happen. Differences can lead to understanding instead of conflict.
  3. Hope exists for better communication in society. If a small group of strangers can connect positively, it's a sign that larger conversations can also be productive.

Will the Joker Emerge?

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 54 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Healthcare Violence Public Opinion Political Discourse
  1. There is a growing anger in America towards the healthcare system that many feel fails them, and this anger can sometimes lead to dark admiration for violent actions against those seen as part of the problem.
  2. People across the political spectrum are finding common ground in their discontent, highlighting a significant rift between ordinary citizens and established institutions, including politicians and the media.
  3. As society changes, traditional forms of celebrity and loyalty are diminishing. New figures may emerge who attract attention, but they could challenge the status quo in unexpected ways.

Bicker, Battle, Broil, and Brawl

Bastiat's Window • 373 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Polarization Election Social media Political Discourse Bipartisanship
  1. 2024 political discourse appears to be heading towards more conflict and controversy.
  2. The polarization in American politics has deepened over the years, impacting relationships and societal cohesion.
  3. Factors contributing to political polarization include historic events like Roe v. Wade, the contentious 2000 election, precision redistricting, and the rise of social media.
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I don't want to play capture the flag

Disaffected Newsletter • 1179 implied HN points • 02 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Polarization Civics Social Issues Public Policy
  1. Many conversations today focus too much on political labels like liberal or conservative. This can make it hard to discuss real issues honestly.
  2. People often try to confirm what side someone is on rather than talking about specific topics. This can create a divide instead of a productive conversation.
  3. It would be better to discuss policies and situations directly without jumping to conclusions based on labels. This could help us understand each other better.

Casting A Wide Net

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 186 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Pop culture Political Discourse Media Critique Social Issues Masculinity
  1. People are increasingly influenced by big personalities and pop culture figures, which can shape their beliefs and feelings. It's important to recognize how this happens, especially in a world flooded with media.
  2. There seems to be a masculinity crisis in society, affecting young men who are feeling lost. Solutions may not be simple, but addressing deeper issues of responsibility and real-life values could help.
  3. Technology and social media are driving a lot of negativity, often promoting conflict and anger. It’s essential to be aware of how algorithms shape what we see and how we react.

Of Course Fetishes Are Political

Many Such Cases • 1179 implied HN points • 10 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Feminism Political Discourse Social Issues Media Critique
  1. Sex positivity is often seen as the idea that all kinks are personal and shouldn't be criticized. But it's important to understand that sex is also influenced by culture and politics.
  2. Some people see traditional lifestyles, like being a 'tradwife', as just a personal choice, but they can also be tied to specific sexual or cultural fetishes, showing how complicated these desires can be.
  3. We need to be open to discussing and critiquing various fetishes instead of just accepting them as normal. Not all desires are healthy, and we should explore where they come from.

Things that won't work on me

Disaffected Newsletter • 1119 implied HN points • 04 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism Gender Issues Social Commentary Political Discourse Identity politics
  1. False claims made by some feminists about harassment are seen as untrustworthy and deceitful.
  2. There is frustration with demands for detailed explanations about how to address cultural issues, feeling that it's a waste of time.
  3. Suggestions to tone down anger or criticism are rejected, as the focus is on holding others accountable rather than trying to convince them.

Rallies at Madison Square Garden

Thinking about... • 226 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Campaigning Nationalism Populism Political Discourse
  1. Rallies at Madison Square Garden connect different historical moments and speeches, showing how certain themes persist over time. It's interesting to see how language and sentiments can echo across different eras.
  2. Some rhetoric from rallies today closely resembles that used in the past, especially concerning race and identity. This highlights ongoing divisions and fears within society.
  3. The content shared reflects deep-seated beliefs and attitudes that can be divisive and harmful. It's crucial to be aware of such narratives as they can influence public opinion and politics.

We are all meaner and more conservative than we were 10 years ago

White Hot Harlots • 139 implied HN points • 18 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Education Social justice Progressivism
  1. People are becoming more mean-spirited and conservative compared to a decade ago.
  2. In the realm of education, conflicts are arising due to the prioritization of emotional impact over intent and context.
  3. The push towards hyper-awareness and sensitivity can potentially restrict meaningful discussions and lead to increased divisiveness in society.

The Efficacy and Constitutionality of the Debt Ceiling

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 22 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Constitutional Law Government spending Fiscal policy Political Discourse
  1. The debt ceiling doesn't really help control government spending. Instead of a strict limit, we should look at reviewing and approving spending more carefully.
  2. There's a belief that the Constitution may not allow for default on public debt. So, some argue that the president could ignore the debt ceiling if Congress keeps spending money.
  3. Many experts think that the repeated struggle over the debt ceiling does more harm than good for the economy and suggest it's time to get rid of it altogether.

Cluck cluck peck peck

Disaffected Newsletter • 1039 implied HN points • 18 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Public Opinion Free speech Activism
  1. People react differently to styles of communication; some prefer straightforward and blunt expressions. It's important to recognize that personal preferences shouldn't dictate how others express their ideas.
  2. If someone is resistant to a message, emotional appeals won't necessarily change their mind. It's often more about the content of the idea than the way it's delivered.
  3. Not everyone seeks to please or follow conventional advice on communication. Some individuals prioritize expressing their truth over trying to fit a more palatable mold.

Recognize who the opposition is

Disaffected Newsletter • 899 implied HN points • 20 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Social Issues Public Policy Activism
  1. Know who your true opposition is. It's important to recognize who is not on your side in any battle you're fighting.
  2. Don't feel obligated to pretend to like people who don't share your values. It's okay to stand firm in your beliefs.
  3. Be aware that some people may betray you or your cause. Trust your instincts about who to rely on in difficult times.

Lines in the sand

The Watch • 550 implied HN points • 14 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Authoritarianism Democracy Civil Rights Political Discourse
  1. The Republican Party and Donald Trump are showing signs of embracing authoritarianism at an alarming rate.
  2. Concerns about Trump's disregard for democratic norms have shifted from being dismissed as exaggeration to becoming a mainstream issue.
  3. It's important to challenge individuals in power, regardless of their political affiliation, about their stances on authoritarianism and threats to democracy.

Friday Funnies: The Winning Hand

Who is Robert Malone • 43 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Health Policy Media influence Public Perception Government regulations
  1. Social media can influence what people think, feel, and do without their knowledge. It's important to be aware of how powerful this influence can be.
  2. There are systematic efforts to discredit those who challenge mainstream medical and scientific views, often using misinformation and manipulation tactics.
  3. Understanding the concept of DARVO (Deny, Attack, and Reverse Victim and Offender) can help recognize manipulative behaviors in discussions about accountability and blame.

Cage Match

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 146 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Discourse Voter Behavior Political Commentary
  1. There is a lot of focus on trivial topics in politics that distract from serious issues, like candidate qualifications and campaigns. These discussions can feel absurd and make it seem like we're living in a silly reality show.
  2. Debates about Trump often end with accusations of 'Trump Derangement Syndrome' to dismiss opposing views. This tactic is common and can hinder constructive conversation.
  3. People sometimes lose touch with objective reality in their political beliefs. Strong loyalty to a leader can make facts feel irrelevant, which complicates discussions and disagreements.

The New York Times is lowkey anti-gender

Sex and the State • 32 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Media Criticism Cultural Commentary Political Discourse
  1. The New York Times published an essay arguing against traditional masculinity, suggesting positive masculinity doesn't fix deeper issues faced by boys. It points out that boys feel immense pressure to act a certain way.
  2. The essay claims we need to rethink and possibly eliminate the concept of masculinity altogether to address the real problems men and boys face.
  3. Some conservative media criticized the essay as part of a supposed 'war on masculinity,' but the author found value in it despite suggesting a slight change.

It's okay to be white, it's not great to troll about it

normality’s Substack • 179 implied HN points • 17 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Trolling Racism Political Discourse Cultural Conflict
  1. It's okay to express that being white is fine, but trolling about it can create misunderstandings and conflict. Simple statements can get complicated when mixed with hidden meanings.
  2. Trolling often plays with people's feelings and can make them react strongly. It can divide people into groups that misunderstand each other.
  3. To improve communication and reduce tension, it's better to be straightforward and sincere rather than using tricky or ambiguous statements. Let's aim for a more normal and calm interaction moving forward.

Reading, Watching 10.27.24

Unpopular Front • 31 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Public Figures Historical Analysis Media Coverage
  1. The debate about fascism has moved from academics to politics, with notable figures openly calling Trump a fascist. This shows that such discussions are becoming more mainstream.
  2. Several high-ranking officials, including generals and former Trump staff, are expressing serious concerns about Trump's actions and their implications for democracy.
  3. Historian Robert Paxton is being highlighted for his views on Trump and fascism, indicating that experts are increasingly weighing in on these topics.

Two reasons to care about boys and men

Sex and the State • 18 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Social Policy Political Discourse Identity politics
  1. It's important to care about boys and men because they face challenges that need attention. Recognizing these challenges can help improve their well-being.
  2. Supporting boys and men can lead to better outcomes for society as a whole. When they thrive, everyone benefits.
  3. Having open discussions about the needs and struggles of boys and men encourages understanding and can lead to positive changes. Communication is key.

If you believe in nothing, you will achieve nothing

White Hot Harlots • 59 implied HN points • 15 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Israel-Palestine conflict Censorship Political Discourse
  1. Believing in nothing leads to achieving nothing; having beliefs can drive success.
  2. The control over discourse and the stifling of free speech can have negative consequences.
  3. Supporting free speech can allow dissenting opinions to be voiced; opposition to free speech can lead to braindead analysis.

Goodbye to All That?

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 22 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Voting Rights Political Discourse Democracy
  1. Many people are feeling anxious and hopeful about the upcoming elections. Large numbers of women are voting, which could lead to unexpected results that may help protect democracy.
  2. The U.S. faces serious issues related to wealth inequality and a lack of collective meaning, leading many to feel betrayed by the system. This unrest can drive voters to extreme choices, affecting the future.
  3. There is a growing concern over political violence and the erosion of civil discourse in America. The dangerous rhetoric around elections raises fears about the stability of the political landscape and the potential for unrest.

Canceling the American Mind

Holodoxa • 179 implied HN points • 20 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Cancel Culture Academic Freedom Political Discourse
  1. Issues related to freedom of expression are prominent in American public discourse, especially in the current era.
  2. Cancel Culture has spread widely, impacting discourse and leading to consequences for freedom of expression.
  3. Strategies like defining Cancel Culture, examining rhetorical fortresses, and proposing changes in education can help mitigate the impacts of censorious attitudes.

Who are the Elites?

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 14 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political elites Political Discourse Public Health Election Dynamics
  1. Elites are individuals who have power and wealth, like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Donald Trump. Even if they claim to be against elites, they still fit into the elite category because of their status.
  2. Kennedy's views, especially about vaccines and public health, make some elites very uncomfortable. He challenges mainstream beliefs that many elites support, which shows a division in elite perspectives.
  3. Many professionals need to think about why someone like Kennedy has followers and the decline of trust in traditional institutions. The situation is complex and not just about misinformation.

The Internet Has Turned Us Into the ChatGPT of "Takes"

The 21st Century Proletarian • 219 implied HN points • 05 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Social media Activism Influence
  1. Political discussion on the internet has become shallow, filled with predictable buzz-phrases, and lacks a solid theoretical basis.
  2. Social media, especially Twitter, has transformed users into machine-like beings, adapting opinions based on algorithm feedback rather than critical thought.
  3. Engaging in algorithmic discourse for clout and engaging in divisive topics hinders progress towards meaningful political change and unity within movements.

Friendship and politics | article

Tumbleweed Words • 17 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Discourse Public Opinion Identity politics Social Issues
  1. Political discussions between friends can change dramatically over time. What once felt open and easy can become tense or emotional.
  2. Common issues like the cost of living can become more important than identity politics for many people. Understanding this shift can help bridge political divides.
  3. Maintaining friendships during political disagreements requires good faith and understanding. It's important to listen and engage in respectful conversations.

Episode 104: This is Absurd!

Disaffected Newsletter • 339 implied HN points • 30 Jan 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Mental health Corporate ethics Censorship Feminism
  1. A Pfizer consultant was caught saying the company is changing the Covid virus for profit, which raises serious ethical questions.
  2. There's a noticeable link between being a white liberal woman and experiencing mental health issues, which has sparked important discussions.
  3. People in America are censoring themselves more than ever in conversations, and this new norm needs to be recognized as a problem.

Community Discussion

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 1 implied HN point • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Technological Impact Community Engagement Political Movements Futurism
  1. There's a community call happening to discuss the changes in American politics. It's open to anyone who wants to join.
  2. The meeting will focus on concerns about issues like Technofeudalism and Tech fascism. These are important problems related to technology and power in society.
  3. If you're interested, you can register for the call happening today at noon EST. It's a good chance to share your thoughts and learn from others.

30,000 registration mailers and the problem with the phrase "technically true"

The End(s) of Argument • 19 implied HN points • 30 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Misinformation Evidence Political Discourse
  1. The importance of providing context when presenting facts. In the example of 30,000 registration mailers, key details like the mailers not conferring voting rights were crucial.
  2. The issue with the phrase "technically true" and how it can be misleading. Just because something is 'technically true' doesn't mean it's not deceptive when used selectively to support an argument.
  3. Highlighting the necessity of clear, undistorted evidence in making claims. It's crucial to ensure that the evidence presented truly supports the argument being made.

Slime Pays

Diane Francis • 719 implied HN points • 01 Apr 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Political Discourse Media Ethics Election Integrity
  1. Britain has used a caste system to control its people, based on social status and behavior. This creates a shame culture that still affects society today.
  2. Rupert Murdoch built a media empire that has influenced both British and American media with sensationalist and often unethical journalism. His outlets have been linked to serious scandals and controversies.
  3. Fox News brought a toxic style of media to America that focuses on divisive and dishonest narratives. This has harmed political discussion and credibility in journalism.

We Must Stop Saying “The Left”

Anxiety Addiction & Ascension • 79 implied HN points • 20 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ideologies Social Issues Government Institutions Political Discourse Political Systems
  1. The term 'The Left' is not accurately representing those behind cultural forces like wokeness.
  2. The true orchestrators of societal malaise are not typical left-wing activists, but rather powerful individuals within the establishment.
  3. Wokeness and related ideologies are creations of the system aiming to divide people and divert attention from the true sources of societal issues.

Don’t Lower the Ceiling, Raise the Floor

American Dreaming • 154 implied HN points • 04 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Equality Equity Political Discourse Society Culture Wars
  1. Talk of equity is becoming more popular than the traditional American ideal of equality.
  2. Young people today are disillusioned with capitalism and liberalism, favoring socialism and heavy government spending.
  3. Instead of focusing on lowering the ceiling, we should aim to raise the floor to achieve true equality of opportunity.