The hottest Political theory Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Philosophy Topics

The Elite Overproduction Hypothesis

Noahpinion • 13882 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Employment Social Issues Political theory Economic Trends
  1. Many college students are now majoring in STEM fields instead of humanities because they want reliable jobs. However, even STEM graduates are facing high unemployment rates, leading to more frustration.
  2. The rise of highly educated individuals without corresponding job opportunities has caused social unrest. Many young people expected to achieve a certain lifestyle after college, but reality has been disappointing for a lot of them.
  3. To ease this tension, we may need to adjust our expectations about work and success. It's important to focus on realistic career paths and find ways to improve job opportunities for everyone.

Important Announcements

The Upheaval • 1952 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy International relations Political theory Public Administration
  1. A book titled 'Control: The Global Rise and Coming Fall of Managerial Tyranny' is coming soon. It will be an expanded version of previous work on managerialism.
  2. The Substack will be paused indefinitely while the author takes a senior policy role at the State Department. Subscription payments are frozen, but the content will remain accessible.
  3. The author feels it's important to take action in today's world rather than just discuss issues. They hope to return to writing in the future.

‘Listen to the Science’: A 75-Year-Old Warning About the Phrase

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 138 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Public Policy Environmental Policy Ethics Health Policy
  1. When people say 'listen to the science,' they often mean 'listen to our plans.' Science can inform us, but it doesn't dictate what we should do.
  2. The economist Ludwig von Mises pointed out that science can't tell us what actions to take; it can only explain what is happening.
  3. Many debates around issues like climate change and COVID-19 are less about science and more about ethical choices, showing that not every problem has a simple scientific solution.

What I'm Reading

In My Tribe • 531 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Conservatism Literature Trumpism
  1. The book 'Furious Minds' explores the MAGA New Right and profiles various scholars who support Donald Trump. It highlights how these figures have gained influence in conservative circles.
  2. The author categorizes these scholars into three groups: Postliberals, Claremonters, and National Conservatives, each with unique reasons for supporting Trump. They have different views on markets and governance.
  3. There's a noticeable lack of prominent conservative voices in academia outside of specific institutions, which may make the conservative community appear more like a tight-knit group. This raises challenges for conservative thinkers.

The Dilemma of the Pacifist Lion

Breaking Smart • 21 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership War Military Public Opinion Political theory
  1. Leaders often struggle to balance their desire for peace with the need to show strength. This can lead to awkward situations where they want to appear strong while promoting non-violence.
  2. Actions speak louder than words, especially in tough situations. Doing something significant, like military action, may seem necessary for leaders to prove their strength.
  3. The unpredictable outcomes of bold decisions create doubt, and even those in power may act against their perceived nature to manage expectations and counter narratives about their reliability.
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Shah Shah a Come Come

Wrong Side of History • 284 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political theory Cultural Commentary Historical Analysis Current Events
  1. Iran's current regime is using old plans from the Shah's time for their nuclear program, but it hasn't achieved much yet. Many Iranians still feel a sense of nationalism despite their discontent with the government.
  2. There's a notion that society's challenges should be addressed with stability in government rather than just pushing for democracy. A monarchist approach could offer long-term solutions instead.
  3. London has a mix of wealth and poverty, and many people are leaving for other areas in search of opportunities. This shift is changing the cultural landscape, making London feel less connected to the rest of the UK.

Politics as Making Hardwood Furniture with Dull Tools: Mamdani's NYC Primary Win Is Not a Win, But Only an Uncertain High-Stakes Bet

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 192 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Coalitions Political strategy Campaigns Political theory
  1. The Democratic primary doesn't really matter; it's just practice before the real election. Understanding this can help build better teams and avoid mistakes.
  2. Winning a primary is not the same as winning the general election. It's important to think about if the chosen candidate can actually win and do good things if elected.
  3. Politics is about creating connections and rallying support. Success comes from believing in new possibilities and building a team that represents diverse backgrounds and needs.

When No One Can Take an L, Or the Upside of Enclave Politics

Freddie deBoer • 3527 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Social movements Civil Rights Political strategy Political culture
  1. Enclave politics is when people with similar beliefs stick together to feel safe and accepted. This helps them find community but can prevent them from making real change in the wider world.
  2. Being in an enclave makes people more aware of their positions and challenges, which can sometimes lead to a sense of powerlessness. However, it also encourages honest discussions about politics and reality.
  3. While extreme views can come from staying in these enclaves, being too disconnected from public sentiment can lead to ineffective activism. It's important to balance holding strong values with understanding the current political climate.

On Tyranny free resources

Thinking about... • 854 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Social justice Civic engagement Education
  1. You can access free cards and posters that summarize lessons from 'On Tyranny'. You can print these resources and share them easily!
  2. The author encourages people to share the lessons freely, whether digitally or in person. It's important to spread knowledge about resistance and politics.
  3. There are also messages available for sharing on social media, promoting the lessons and their relevance for both individuals and educators.

Fascism lives in the house capitalism built

Quid Amo • 857 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Historical Analysis
  1. Fascism is not a fixed idea; it changes over time. Understanding it requires looking at its history and how it adapts to new contexts.
  2. Fascism thrives in moments of crisis and often uses nostalgia to rally support. This means it can appeal to people's feelings about the past to gain power.
  3. Fascism isn't just something separate from capitalism; it's closely linked to it. It can be seen as a reaction to the flaws within capitalist societies, showing that both ideas can coexist.

Is Curtis Yarvin 'influential'?

Read Max • 6033 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Right-wing Influence Political theory Media Ideology
  1. Curtis Yarvin, also known as Mencius Moldbug, shares controversial right-wing ideas about government and power. His thoughts are sometimes seen as extreme, but they're based on older conservative beliefs.
  2. While some powerful figures like Peter Thiel reference Yarvin, his actual influence on politics might be overstated. Many believe he provides justification for existing power rather than directly steering political actions.
  3. Yarvin himself downplays his importance, suggesting that any influence he has works through lower-level staff and thinkers rather than powerful leaders directly adopting his ideas.

Tolstoy On Disagreement

The Ruffian • 264 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Argumentation Political theory Literature Philosophy
  1. People often argue about politics without realizing they value different things. Understanding what others care about can help resolve disagreements.
  2. When discussing, it's helpful to express what you truly love or believe. This can lead to surprising agreement and reduce pointless arguments.
  3. Tolstoy highlights that many arguments are similar to digging up the same truth. Acknowledging shared values can make discussions more productive.

Niall Ferguson: America Is in a Late Republic Stage—Like Rome

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1623 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Foreign Policy Political theory Public Opinion
  1. America's foreign policy has changed a lot, especially under Biden, leading to new alliances between countries like Russia, China, and Iran that are concerning for the West.
  2. Many people think that if Trump gets reelected, it would be good for countries like Russia and China, but the opposite may be true; it could increase pressure on those nations.
  3. The idea of a 'liberal international order' that we used to have is misleading; it wasn't as fair or organized as people believe, and now America is leaning towards more self-focused governance.

What Socrates Can Teach Marxists about Justice

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 257 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Ethics Political theory Justice Critical Theory
  1. Justice can be seen as just the interest of those in power, but this idea is challenged by the belief in natural law, which says that rights come from a higher authority and are not just human-made rules.
  2. The belief that justice is defined by who has power, like that of Karl Marx, contrasts sharply with the view that justice is linked to truth and moral principles.
  3. Understanding what someone thinks about justice can reveal a lot about their political ideas, like whether they believe in equality under the law or that power should dictate what is just.

unitary presidentialism as a collective cognition design flaw

Brain Pizza • 595 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Systems Cognition Decision-making Political theory Information processing
  1. Unitary presidential systems focus power in one person, making them prone to too much pressure and stress. This can lead to poor decision-making and inefficiency.
  2. Having just one person making important choices can create problems because they can't handle all the information alone. It’s better to share decisions among many people.
  3. When a single leader has too much responsibility, it can cause delays and mistakes. Spreading the workload can help improve decision-making and outcomes.

Why Are Some Of Our Most Successful Leaders Mentally Ill?

The Ruffian • 510 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Psychology Economics Political theory Mental health
  1. Some successful leaders, like Javier Milei and Elon Musk, show traits that could be seen as mentally ill or eccentric. This often helps them think outside the box and act decisively, even in the face of criticism.
  2. Having a lack of empathy can sometimes be a strength in leadership. When leaders don't try to please everyone, they can take bold actions that others may avoid.
  3. While unconventional behavior can lead to positive change, not all 'crazy' actions are beneficial. Sometimes it's just madness without any deeper logic.

Difficulties with Fanon

Global Inequality and More 3.0 • 1298 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25
📖 Philosophy Political theory Critical Theory Identity politics
  1. Fanon's ideas challenge us to think about violence differently. While some celebrate violence for self-realization, it's important to question the implications this has on society.
  2. Fanon expands Marxism beyond Europe, highlighting social issues in post-colonial contexts. His approach forced people to rethink modernization and the cultural complexities within different societies.
  3. Independence changed the narrative for many African countries, allowing them to create their own history. This agency is crucial, even if challenges like inequality and poor governance remain.

Objectivism

David Friedman’s Substack • 206 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Political theory Debate Anarchism
  1. Ayn Rand's idea of acting in your rational self-interest doesn't mean you should always respect others' rights. Sometimes, acting in your interest might involve violating those rights, but it's best to do so wisely.
  2. An Objectivist government, which would need to fund services like defense, struggles with the idea of collecting taxes without violating its own principles since taxation is seen as initiation of force.
  3. The conversation suggests that accepting some rights violations might be reasonable for the sake of a limited government, but there's a debate on whether a stateless society is actually a better solution.

The Crisis of Modernity and Liberalism, with the Fourth Political Theory and Eurasianism as the Solution

Glenn’s Substack • 619 implied HN points • 26 Sep 24
📖 Philosophy Political theory Modernity Liberalism Critical Theory
  1. Modernity and liberalism are criticized for focusing too much on individualism and reason, which Dugin believes disconnects people from their cultural and spiritual roots. He wants to emphasize collective identities, traditions, and faith.
  2. Dugin proposes a 'fourth political theory' as a new way of thinking about politics that values family, religion, and humanity's deeper nature. He argues it's a response to the limitations of existing ideologies like liberalism, fascism, and communism.
  3. Eurasianism is seen as a way for different civilizations to work together while appreciating their unique identities. Dugin believes this approach can create better international relations and is a chance for a new global understanding as Western dominance fades.

Bat Shit Insane Religious Fanaticism Is A Requirement For US Empire Managers

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 3036 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political Commentary Political theory Social Issues Religious Influence
  1. Religious fanaticism often seems required for people in power, especially in U.S. foreign policy. It's strange how those with extreme beliefs can run a country, while ordinary people might be seen as unfit.
  2. Many organizations claim to fight against antisemitism but sometimes focus more on protecting specific political interests. This raises questions about their true motives and effectiveness.
  3. International laws appear to be ignored by powerful countries when it comes to holding them accountable. This leads to a world where the strong set the rules and justice for everyone else is hard to find.

Reflections of an Apostate

Fake Noûs • 542 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Academia Libertarianism Ideology Diversity
  1. Libertarianism is built on skepticism about authority. People believe there shouldn't be government control over things that would be wrong for anyone else to do.
  2. Being a non-leftist in academia can be tough because there is often bias against conservative views. This bias can affect job opportunities and student experiences.
  3. Diverse viewpoints are important in academics. Having different ideas helps everyone to think better and avoid extreme groupthink.

Right-Wing Intellectuals under Trump, Andrew Jackson and MAGA, "Ethnic Niches" and More

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 1462 implied HN points • 21 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Intellectuals Trump Era Populism Activism
  1. Different intellectuals have different roles in the political landscape. Some focus on specific issues and work within the current system to make a difference.
  2. It's okay for intellectuals to express discontent at times. Everyone has their own style when it comes to speaking out against things they believe are wrong.
  3. Having a strong sense of integrity can lead people to voice their opinions more openly. Some find it hard to stay quiet about issues that frustrate them.

The Rule of Idiots

The Chris Hedges Report • 1051 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Governance Corruption Political theory Civil Rights
  1. In times of trouble for societies, foolish leaders often rise up. They reflect the society's own troubles and disconnect from reality.
  2. A failing government tends to serve the rich and powerful instead of its citizens. It loses its ability to protect the rights and needs of the people.
  3. When a society stops valuing honesty, the common good, and moral behavior, it begins to fall apart. Chaos and unethical actions replace order and integrity.

The Politicization of Intelligence

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 1118 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Intelligence Decision-making Policy Analysis Political theory Ethics
  1. Intelligence can be influenced by politics, which means the information gathered isn't always objective. This can lead to bad decisions based on flawed data.
  2. It's important for decision-makers to be open to different views and facts, even if they don't fit their hopes. Ignoring contrary evidence can lead to problems, like the difficulties faced in Iraq.
  3. Leaders in politics and intelligence need to focus on reality and not let political agendas shape the truth. Good outcomes come from honest assessments, not just from trying to win political arguments.

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.

A German Political Primer Ahead of Tomorrow's Elections

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 237 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Political Systems Governance Political theory
  1. Germany has a complex party system with traditional parties like CDU/CSU and SPD facing challenges as new parties like AfD and Die Linke gain prominence. Understanding these dynamics helps explain current political tensions.
  2. The CDU/CSU and SPD have historically dominated German politics, but both are in decline now, with the AfD making significant gains by attracting discontented voters from these parties.
  3. The political landscape in Germany is shifting, with a growing divide between traditional parties and newcomers, which could lead to significant changes in governance if the current system can't adapt.

The Good News is Fascists Always Fail

JoeWrote • 118 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Political Movements Election Analysis Public Opinion Policy Impact
  1. Fascism is a reactionary ideology that often seeks to return to a past that never really existed. This means it usually fails because it can't truly solve today's problems.
  2. Politicians like Trump might get attention by blaming others for issues, but they struggle to deliver real solutions once in power. Their promises often lead to disappointment among supporters.
  3. Despite the fear around fascist movements, they can ultimately collapse because they don't offer genuine plans for the future. People are beginning to recognize when their needs aren't being met.

ACX Endorses Harris, Oliver, Or Stein

Astral Codex Ten • 37235 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Political theory Government Accountability Political Campaigns
  1. It's suggested to vote for Kamala Harris in swing states and consider third-party candidates in safe states. This is a way to support candidates seen as better alternatives to Donald Trump.
  2. There are concerns about Donald Trump's authoritarian tendencies, including potential manipulation of election processes and threats to opponents. This could gradually undermine democracy.
  3. Some argue that while both major parties have authoritarian traits, the urgency to prevent Trump's rise is heightened since he might more openly challenge democratic norms compared to the Democrats.

Germany’s Neglect of National Interests

Glenn’s Substack • 939 implied HN points • 10 Sep 24
🌍 World Politics Nationalism International relations European Politics Security Studies Political theory
  1. Germany's current approach to foreign policy often neglects its own national interests, which could lead to negative consequences for the country.
  2. There is a historical pattern of Germany sacrificing its interests for external powers, similar to its past under France and now the US.
  3. A rise in nationalism may occur as a reaction to this neglect, with people seeking to reclaim control over their national identity and sovereignty.

Pessimistic thoughts about the left

Philosophy bear • 328 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Political theory Critique Economic Models Social Change
  1. The left often avoids discussing difficult trade-offs because they don't want to upset their supporters. This can lead to a lack of solid plans when they gain power.
  2. There's a problem with administrative spending in universities that the left doesn't address openly. Many unnecessary positions could be cut, but it’s a touchy subject.
  3. Pessimism about the left’s ability to create real change stems from a reluctance to make tough decisions. They need to start thinking about practical economic planning to be effective.

Against The Generalized Anti-Caution Argument

Astral Codex Ten • 26154 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Public Policy International relations Crisis Management
  1. Being cautious and warning about potential risks is important, even if past warnings seem wrong. These warnings can still highlight dangers that may eventually happen.
  2. Just because someone has made incorrect predictions in the past does not mean we should ignore future concerns. Some risks gradually increase over time, like health issues or the dangers of powerful technologies.
  3. It's crucial to maintain a balanced approach to assessing risks. We should not let past inaccuracies cause us to dismiss all warnings, as they can help us stay alert to genuine threats.

Why does every Jacobin comment section look like this?

Philosophy bear • 343 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Political theory Social Critique Ideological analysis Cultural Studies Commentary
  1. People in Jacobin's comment section often seem unhappy. It's interesting to wonder why so many voices lean toward negativity.
  2. There seems to be a unique attitude among commenters across different ideologies, especially on the left. This may hold clues about the wider leftist community.
  3. Understanding the reasons behind this grumpy attitude could be key to helping socialism move forward without obstacles.

I Love This Guy

Points And Figures • 1279 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Public Policy Political Movements Political Commentary
  1. We are at an important moment in history that can shape the future of Western values and freedom. It's essential to stay alert and participate in this significant change.
  2. When making policies, ensure they promote freedom for everyone and avoid leaning towards control and restrictions. Past attempts at reform have shown pitfalls when they disguise control as freedom.
  3. It's crucial to expose dishonest actions in politics and prioritize transparent communication. Learning from past mistakes can help build a stronger future without wasting time on revenge.

Would America's Wealthy Elite Kill A Couple Of Democrats To Rehab The Democrats? Yes They Would!

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 30 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Legislation Political theory Political Economy
  1. Wealthy elites may manipulate politics to maintain power, even if it means harming political figures. They want to avoid changing tax policies that could hurt their income.
  2. Both Democrats and Republicans are failing to meet the needs of everyday Americans, leading to distrust in elections and the political system. Many people feel left behind and want real change.
  3. To achieve true political reform, it's essential to challenge the current political system. Americans need to push for verified voting methods to ensure their voices are heard.

Thankfully, Some Things Never Change

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 18283 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Public Opinion Cultural History Media influence Social Change
  1. The world has faced a lot of crazy changes recently, but some things remain the same, like the joy of kids during the holidays and the laughs we share. These simple joys can help ground us during difficult times.
  2. There has been a shift in how quickly ideas and beliefs spread, often due to influential figures. This rapid change has sometimes made it hard to hold on to what we once believed.
  3. Despite the challenges of recent years, there's a sense of relief that things are starting to feel normal again, allowing us to enjoy life without the confusion of contradicting truths.

The American Caudillo

The Weekly Dish • 108 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Policy Foreign Relations Political theory
  1. Trump is using military power in the U.S., which raises concerns about his leadership style. Many people feel this approach is not aligned with American values.
  2. There is a fear that Trump's actions could harm the concept of democracy in America. People worry about how this could change the country for the future.
  3. The situation highlights a divide in opinions about national security and governance. Some believe strong military presence is needed at home, while others find it troubling.

Adam Carolla is Wrong

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

READING: Harriett Martineau Observes the Court of President Andrew Jackson in Washington DC in the Early 1830s

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 238 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History Government Society Culture Political theory
  1. Harriet Martineau's observations give a unique view of early 19th-century America, focusing on the gap between ideals and reality in politics.
  2. She highlights the diversity and complexity of Washington, D.C. society while also noting the tensions surrounding power and privilege.
  3. Martineau's critical perspective reveals both admiration for American democracy and concerns about exclusions and contradictions within it.

Things are going even worse than I expected

The Future, Now and Then • 345 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Regulation Political theory Civil Rights
  1. Elon Musk has taken significant control over the U.S. government, causing concern among observers. His style of leadership resembles how he managed Twitter, which raises questions about legality and governance.
  2. The ability to rebuild and enforce government regulations takes time, and the current situation is making it harder for progressives to succeed. There’s a sense of lost potential for positive change.
  3. Many people feel a sense of mourning for the futures that now seem impossible. Plans and hopes for progress that once existed are now gone, and it leaves a feeling of disappointment.

The Right Side of History

Breaking Smart • 150 implied HN points • 07 Jun 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Political theory History Social Behavior Existentialism
  1. Understanding history is complex and doesn't always have clear 'right' or 'wrong' sides. Sometimes we need to accept uncertainty and be okay with being wrong.
  2. Having opinions or beliefs is fine, but trying to find a single 'right side' can lead to confusion and extremism. It's important to be open to different perspectives.
  3. Engaging seriously with serious issues is necessary, but it's also important to embrace humor and unseriousness to keep a balanced view of life.