The hottest Political Philosophy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Philosophy Topics

My Views of the Trump Administration

David Friedman’s Substack • 287 implied HN points • 04 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Trade policy Immigration Political Philosophy
  1. The Trump administration has mixed reviews, with some seeing it as a disaster and others viewing it as a necessary change towards less government control and more individual choices.
  2. Tariffs and immigration policies under Trump are seen as not beneficial, especially since tariffs may harm trade and the economy.
  3. Foreign policy is a huge concern, especially with Trump's approach of potentially reducing support for Ukraine and NATO, which could risk European stability.

The assessment of my PhD thesis by the University of Sydney and the way I see our world

Philosophy bear • 214 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Metaphysics Epistemology Social theory Political Philosophy
  1. It's better to hold institutions accountable instead of blaming individuals. Institutions can change, while people often stay the same.
  2. Making injustices visible helps society recognize and correct them, encouraging critical reflection on accepted practices.
  3. Everything in life matters, big or small. Caring about small events can deepen our appreciation for the larger, more significant issues we face.

Project Sentinel Has Launched!

Emerald Robinson’s The Right Way • 2380 implied HN points • 03 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Constitutional Law National Security Political Philosophy Government Overreach Crisis Management
  1. Project Sentinel is a group of experienced experts who offer solutions to current problems in America. They focus on informing people about political issues and strategies to counter perceived threats.
  2. These experts believe America is facing a serious crisis, comparing it to a coup d'état, and they emphasize the need for constitutional solutions to restore order.
  3. Members can access high-quality intelligence updates and advice from this elite group, which includes national security analysts and former military personnel.

What Socrates Teaches Us About Love, Politics, and Death

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1163 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Political Philosophy Metaphysics History Education
  1. Socrates teaches us about living deeply through inquiry and exploration. We often think we know enough, but there's always more to learn.
  2. Despite being poor and not a great speaker, Socrates became a key figure in philosophy. His life shows that wisdom and character matter more than wealth or appearance.
  3. Socrates' way of questioning others helps uncover true wisdom. He challenged people to think deeply about love, politics, and death, which are still relevant today.

On Priesthoods

Astral Codex Ten • 35170 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Epistemology Ethics Social theory Cultural criticism Political Philosophy
  1. Priesthoods are groups of knowledgeable people that help in truth-seeking. They balance individual insights and societal ideas to find better answers to questions.
  2. These groups often keep a distance from the public to maintain their expert status. They worry that mixing with public ideas can lower their standards and credibility.
  3. While priesthoods have good functions, they can also fall prey to biased views and political influences, which can make their recommendations less reliable over time.
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The authoritarian political agenda: beyond populism

Wyclif's Dust • 1341 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Authoritarianism Populism Electoral Politics Governance Political Philosophy
  1. Many recent political leaders, like Trump and Modi, seem to share a dislike for traditional institutions. They often challenge or bypass established political systems and laws to push their agendas.
  2. These leaders come from different backgrounds but have gained support by tapping into public dissatisfaction with current systems. They use populism to connect with voters, even if their specific policies vary widely.
  3. The modern economy has shifted towards large-scale operations, which makes nations and big corporations more intertwined. This shift affects how these leaders approach governance and their relationships with businesses.

The Rise of Sovereign Individuals

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 18 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Power Dynamics Political Philosophy Technocracy Sovereignty
  1. We're witnessing a big change in society, similar to a caterpillar turning into a butterfly. The old systems are breaking down, and new ideas are trying to take shape.
  2. There is a growing group of powerful individuals who believe they can operate outside traditional systems like governments. This could lead to more inequality and social unrest.
  3. Some wealthy tech leaders think they can have total control without the rules that supported their success. This raises the question of why they're willing to risk everything for such a gamble.

Government for Dummies

News from Uncibal • 934 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Public Policy Political Philosophy
  1. Modern politicians often lack deep understanding and experience, leading to a government focused on following simple recipes instead of thoughtful decision-making.
  2. There's a difference between technical knowledge and practical knowledge; good governance requires wisdom that comes from real experience, not just following rules.
  3. If the electorate grows frustrated with inadequate leaders, they might take matters into their own hands, which could lead to serious political unrest.

Does America Require an "Anglo-Protestant" Majority?

Glenn Loury • 515 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Demographics Cultural Identity Political Philosophy Nationalism
  1. Some believe that America needs an 'Anglo-Protestant' majority to maintain its success and values, arguing that this group historically shaped the nation.
  2. Immigrants often come to America for its opportunities and quality of life, and there's skepticism about the idea that they would change the culture negatively once they arrive.
  3. There is a debate about how important a dominant culture is for national stability, with some suggesting that laws and institutions play a larger role than the ethnic or cultural origins of the people.

Yes, You Do Have to Tolerate the Intolerant

Yascha Mounk • 4456 implied HN points • 08 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Censorship Political Philosophy Democracy
  1. You need to tolerate different opinions, even those you disagree with. This helps maintain a fair society where ideas can openly clash.
  2. Censoring ideas can lead to more harm than good. It’s better to counter harmful thoughts with discussion and argument instead of shutting them down.
  3. Embracing free speech has historically led to progress. Societies that allow free debate are often less prejudiced over time, showing that open conversation can make a difference.

Why We Drink

News from Uncibal • 835 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Philosophy Freedom Public Health Civic Responsibility Social Behavior
  1. Alcohol is more than just a drink; it's linked to our freedom. When people try to limit our drinking, it can mean they're also trying to limit other freedoms.
  2. Drinking responsibly helps us learn about our choices and how to live with others. It's part of growing up and being a good citizen in society.
  3. If society starts to restrict our alcohol consumption, it could show a bigger problem. It might mean that people are becoming less capable of handling their freedoms well.

The field

Silentium • 619 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Ethics Metaphysics Logic Aesthetics Political Philosophy
  1. Silence can be a powerful tool for personal reflection and growth. Taking time away from noise helps us understand ourselves better.
  2. Embracing silence can lead to greater creativity and inspiration. It allows our minds to wander and generate new ideas.
  3. Creating a space for silence can improve mental well-being. It's important to disconnect from the busyness of life sometimes.

Nietzsche the Natalist

Bet On It • 186 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Ethics Metaphysics Aesthetics Political Philosophy
  1. Many people with high fertility rates in the U.S. tend to be very religious. This shows a strong connection between faith and the desire to have children.
  2. Nietzsche criticized those who focus only on the negative aspects of life, encouraging a more positive view on existence. He argued that life has value despite its struggles.
  3. Even though Nietzsche didn't have children, his ideas on life's worth contrast with those who do find joy and fulfillment in raising families, like Catherine Pakaluk who has eight kids.

Wokeness Dismantled, Part 2

Life Since the Baby Boom • 1152 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy Political theory Social justice Government Political Philosophy
  1. The family functions very differently than larger societies. In a family, people support each other unconditionally, while in broader society, abstract policies cannot replace personal relationships.
  2. Kant's ideas about moral rules might work in theory, but they often fail in real life. What feels fair for small groups doesn't always make sense on a larger scale.
  3. Elinor Ostrom showed that cooperation can work in communities without government intervention, highlighting the importance of the community size when solving problems. What's right for a family or village doesn't always work on a national level.

Reading Thiel's Op-Ed

Unpopular Front • 127 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Political Philosophy Public Policy Media Critique Power Dynamics
  1. Peter Thiel's op-ed suggests a belief in a revolution against the old government system. He thinks exposing the past is necessary for moving forward.
  2. Thiel connects technology and politics, claiming that the internet has the power to reveal hidden truths, but this could also lead to increased paranoia and conspiracy thinking.
  3. There are worries about Thiel's approach to reconciliation, as he hints at the potential for scapegoating and power dynamics, which could lead to authoritarian control disguised as truth-telling.

What Happened?

Fake Noûs • 584 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Political Behavior Political Philosophy Campaign strategies
  1. Many people find Trump's character appealing, despite his controversial actions. They admire traits like honesty in his bluntness and a strong, dominant personality.
  2. Trump's supporters often view his behavior as a sign of strength and masculinity. This admiration can make them overlook his scandals and lies.
  3. Some voters feel emotionally connected to Trump, almost like he's a cult leader. They follow him not because of policies, but because they resonate with his boldness and confidence.

RKUL: Time Well Spent 12/12/2024

Razib Khan's Unsupervised Learning • 251 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Political Philosophy Eastern philosophy Philosophy of science
  1. Your time is limited, so it's important to spend it wisely instead of wasting it on distractions like social media.
  2. Philosophy can mean different things to different people, from self-help to deep religious texts, but it encourages reflection and understanding.
  3. Many great philosophers, like Socrates and Confucius, aimed to explore fundamental truths and offer insights that still resonate today.

CROSSPOST: ARCHIVES: Franklin Delano Roosevelt at the 1936 New York State Democratic Convention

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 238 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Campaigns Political History Democratic Party Republican party Political Philosophy
  1. The Republican leaders are more focused on opposing actions than actually getting things done. They claim to support the same goals but resist the efforts to achieve them.
  2. History shows that during tough times, those in power must respond with real solutions. Neglecting issues can lead to greater unrest and challenges to government.
  3. Making promises without a clear plan can be dangerous. It’s important to face the reality of social issues instead of evading them, or we risk repeating past mistakes.

First ask what it means

David Friedman’s Substack • 269 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Ethics Existentialism Metaphysics Political Philosophy Epistemology
  1. It's important to first understand what statements about climate change really mean before accepting them as true. Definitions of extreme weather can vary, so the impact of climate change may not be as straightforward as it seems.
  2. When people say healthcare is a human right, it raises questions about what that actually means and whether healthcare workers could be forced to provide care. The term needs clarification to avoid misunderstandings about what rights entail.
  3. Terms like 'living wage' can be vague and subjective. People often think of it as a wage that allows for a comfortable life, but what that looks like varies widely between individuals.

A newsletter of despair

Striking 13 • 3234 implied HN points • 03 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict Humanitarian Antisemitism Political Philosophy Peace efforts
  1. It's vital to acknowledge the suffering of others, even when we feel safe and distant from conflicts around the world.
  2. In times of conflict, it's crucial to avoid falling into the trap of dehumanizing the 'other side' and making moral calculations about whose lives matter more.
  3. Seeking solutions in complex conflicts means embracing moral complexities, questioning binary thinking, and striving for practical, realistic steps towards peace.

Saturday Commentary and Review #181

Fisted by Foucault • 154 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Political Philosophy Defense Policy Social movements Public Policy
  1. The collapse of the Syrian government has surprising global effects, especially concerning China's security. The presence of Uyghur militants fighting in Syria poses a potential threat to China's Xinjiang region.
  2. In many Western societies, the traditional separation between government and private interests has blurred. This post-liberal shift often sees political agendas influencing both public opinion and private actions.
  3. European nations are currently facing significant challenges, including economic passivity and loss of sovereignty. This has led to a sense of pessimism and isolation among many Europeans as they perceive a decline in their collective influence.

A Requiem For Ba'athism (Part 1 of 2)

Fisted by Foucault • 128 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Middle East International relations Historical context Political Philosophy
  1. The Syrian government quickly collapsed, with major cities falling to opposition forces in a matter of weeks. This rapid change marked the end of Ba'athism and the Assad family's rule.
  2. The regime's failure was due to a mix of internal issues like demoralization among troops and lack of support from allies like Iran and Hezbollah. It wasn't a heroic battle but rather a series of local surrenders.
  3. The collapse of the Assad regime shows how much the political landscape in the Arab world has changed. It's also seen as a broader consequence of historical grievances and foreign interventions in the Middle East.

The Physiocratic Platform: Taxation

Contemplations on the Tree of Woe • 1560 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Tax policy Federal Budget Government reform Economic Theory Political Philosophy
  1. There are many types of taxes in the U.S., which can make the system very confusing. The government collects money through taxes like income tax, sales tax, and property tax to fund its activities.
  2. A proposed way of understanding taxes is to link them directly to the services the government provides. For example, taxes could cover the cost of maintaining order and protecting citizens.
  3. One suggested tax is a poll tax, which would be paid by everyone, regardless of income. This tax could help fund voting processes and personal protection, though it might be seen as unfair for low-income households.

Some Austrian Questions

Bet On It • 251 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Libertarianism Economic Theory Political Philosophy Public Policy
  1. Many people start with a simple understanding of economic theories, often identifying with one school without fully knowing its details. It takes time and deeper study to really understand the nuances between different economic thinkers.
  2. As people grow and learn, they often reassess their beliefs about economics and may find they resonate more with certain schools over others. It's okay to change your mind as you gain more knowledge.
  3. A strong pull toward empirical data and analysis can lead someone to align with mainstream economics rather than strictly adhering to one specific school of thought, like the Austrian School.

I have a question for those supporting Israel's actions (Revisited)

Philosophy bear • 221 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Public Opinion Human Rights Political Philosophy
  1. Many civilians in Gaza have been killed by Israeli bombings, raising moral questions about the actions taken. People are encouraged to think about how they would feel if similar actions were taken against their own citizens.
  2. The intentional killing of civilians in war is seen as wrong, and the idea of proportionality is important. If a military action causes more civilian deaths than it saves, it could be considered murder.
  3. The perception of value in lives matters; allowing harm to a larger group to save a smaller group is viewed as immoral. Ethically, states should not sacrifice innocent lives for their own interests.

Compassion ceilings

Philosophy bear • 214 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Ethics Social theory Political Philosophy Public Policy
  1. Some jobs limit how compassionate a person can be. This means people in certain roles cannot show their full kindness because of their job requirements.
  2. If the most compassionate people are excluded from roles, the overall compassion in that group decreases. This can lead to a culture that is less caring and more harsh.
  3. Compassion ceilings can have negative effects, even if the actions causing them aren't seen as wrong. The result is a workplace or society that is less understanding and more likely to harm others.

Does Liberal Democracy End Next Week?

The Weekly Dish • 165 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Political trends Elections Political Philosophy Civil Rights
  1. Tribalism and extreme partisanship are growing problems in society. This can make it hard for people to connect and discuss differing opinions.
  2. Despite current challenges, there are signs that liberal democracy can endure. People still value freedoms and democracy, which is a positive sign.
  3. The future of liberal democracy is uncertain, but hope should not be lost. Engaging in conversations and understanding each other can help strengthen it.

America Is a Normal Country

KERFUFFLE • 55 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy American history Political Philosophy National Identity Global relations
  1. America is no longer viewed as a unique or exceptional country compared to others. Instead, it shares many common challenges with other nations.
  2. The U.S. has a history of military interventions that often led to problems rather than solutions, making some wonder if inaction might have been better.
  3. Despite past dominance after World War II, America is now seen as an empire in decline, and it's important to recognize and adapt to this reality.

How the gender pay gap gave me empathy for men

Sex and the State • 61 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Political Philosophy Feminism Libertarianism Social norms
  1. The gender pay gap is often influenced by personal choices, like marriage and childbirth, rather than just discrimination. It's important to look at how societal expectations shape these choices.
  2. Both men and women face pressures from cultural norms about gender roles. Blaming individuals for broader systemic issues is unfair and ignores the real struggles they face.
  3. Men, especially those struggling in today's society, experience loneliness and pressure to conform to traditional masculinity. Understanding their challenges can help us all work towards a more empathetic society.

Peter Singer, Palestine, and the Professional Perils of Philosophy (UNLOCKED)

Philosophy for the People w/Ben Burgis • 818 implied HN points • 22 Oct 23
📖 Philosophy Ethics Political Philosophy Utilitarianism Power Dynamics
  1. Approaching current events with only moral intuitions and mainstream opinions can lead to misguided analysis.
  2. Philosophical training in argument analysis needs to be supplemented with a robust understanding of the real world dynamics of power and violence for accurate interpretation.
  3. Relying solely on moral intuitions and mainstream sources for analysis of complex issues like conflict in Palestine can lead to embarrassing misunderstandings and oversimplifications.

The Human Nature Election

From the New World • 86 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Democrats Political Philosophy Voter Behavior Social Issues
  1. Democrats need to connect with human nature to appeal to voters. Being authentic and relatable is important for politicians.
  2. The rise of 'wokeness' has made noticing and discussing human nature difficult for the Democratic Party. This has hurt their connection with working-class voters.
  3. To attract a new generation of politicians, Democrats must redefine terms like racism and sexism to align with original meanings, thus moving away from current extreme definitions.

Thinking Harder About Justice: Rawls vs. Cohen vs. Marx (UNLOCKED)

Philosophy for the People w/Ben Burgis • 758 implied HN points • 08 Jan 23
📖 Philosophy Political Philosophy Socialism Marxism Justice Inequality
  1. Marxist philosopher G.A. Cohen criticizes John Rawls's theory of justice from the left
  2. Cohen's idea of 'socialist equality of opportunity' aims to correct inequalities linked to factors beyond an individual's control
  3. Rawls and Cohen may be in a semantic dispute about the term 'justice', but both their perspectives are important in highlighting existing injustices and guiding future progress

A Better Model of Political Categories

The Upheaval • 630 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Philosophy Conservatism Progressivism
  1. Consider the political landscape beyond just Left vs. Right and explore other categories like Right-Wing Progressives for a more comprehensive understanding.
  2. Challenge traditional frameworks like the four-quadrant political compass and explore models that acknowledge the nuances and complexities of political ideologies.
  3. Think about political personality types using multiple axes/spectrums to represent the diverse nature of political beliefs, moving away from simple, misleading charts.

Irrepressible liberalism: the philosophy of Gerald Gaus

Hypertext • 159 implied HN points • 29 Feb 24
📖 Philosophy Liberalism Public Reason Political Philosophy Classical Liberalism
  1. Gerald Gaus emphasized the importance of optimism and confidence in defending liberalism, even in challenging times with populist threats.
  2. Gaus's philosophy focused on bottom-up moral reasoning and the idea that a diverse society can find common ground through emergent order.
  3. He advocated for extensive individual freedom as essential for the survival of an open society, and highlighted the significance of incrementalism and learning-based governance in policymaking.

"Leave Us Alone" as a Political Philosophy

The Redneck Intellectual by C. Bradley Thompson • 373 implied HN points • 25 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Political Philosophy Freedom Rights Constitution
  1. Early Americans created a government to protect individual rights and promote freedom
  2. The political philosophy of post-founding America aimed for self-government and minimal government intervention
  3. Antebellum Americans believed in leaving individuals alone, minimal government regulation, and wealth redistribution was seen as immoral

December 19, 2024

Letters from an American • 18 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History Political Philosophy
  1. During tough times, it's important to stay committed to a cause, even when things look bad. This was true for the American patriots during the Revolutionary War.
  2. The fight for independence was about more than just defeating the British; it was about creating a government that values everyone’s rights equally. This idea of equality was a driving force for the patriots.
  3. Small victories can boost morale and confidence. The success at Trenton showed that persistence pays off, leading to more support for the revolutionary cause.

My Own Private Energy Crisis

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 881 implied HN points • 29 May 23
📖 Philosophy Metaphysics Ethics Political Philosophy Epistemology Aesthetics
  1. When traveling by airplane, we ignore the risks we know are there, which reflects our ability to overlook inherent dangers in pursuit of convenience.
  2. The sense of class, wealth, and comfort among individuals varies, influencing their attitudes towards success and societal norms.
  3. The modern lifestyle involves navigating through ideological and moral contradictions, from energy consumption to personal choices, which can lead to reflections on societal values and personal actions.

Look Who's Talking: G.A. Cohen on Israeli Condemnations of Palestinian Terrorism

Philosophy for the People w/Ben Burgis • 319 implied HN points • 10 Sep 23
📖 Philosophy Ethics Political Philosophy Moral dilemmas Critique
  1. G.A. Cohen questioned the equal right of everyone to condemn terrorist attacks, highlighting the complexity of moral standing in such situations.
  2. Cohen's analysis of Israeli-Palestinian conflict suggests that those responsible for injustices may lack the moral standing to condemn actions that result from the grievances they caused.
  3. The argument presents a thought-provoking analogy involving responsibilities and moral condemnations in a hypothetical scenario, challenging the notion of moral authority in certain situations.

On Red-Pilling

Castalia • 279 implied HN points • 02 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Government Power Civic Responsibility Political History Political Philosophy
  1. The 'red pill' concept represents a harsh truth about power structures. It shows how governments often act in their own interest, making it hard for everyday people to see what's really happening.
  2. People debate whether human behavior is shaped more by biology or environment. This affects how we understand social interactions and the so-called 'sexual marketplace.'
  3. There's a feeling that society is struggling between old values and modern realities. We need to recognize harsh truths but also focus on being the best versions of ourselves.