The hottest Political theory Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Philosophy Topics

Why elections have surprised us in recent years

Optimally Irrational • 62 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Political coalitions are really fragile. Just like a team can break up if members aren't happy, political alliances often change quickly too.
  2. Changes in voter demographics are not as predictable as they seem. For example, more minority voters don't always mean more power for one party because voter preferences can shift.
  3. Instability in coalitions can be actually good for democracy. It means different groups can team up and have a chance at winning, keeping the system fair.

The Philosopher Made For TV

From the New World • 75 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Political theory
  1. John Rawls introduced the idea of the 'Veil of Ignorance', which suggests that true justice comes from understanding what it's like to be in someone else's shoes. This concept gained popularity with the rise of television, which allowed people to experience others' lives vicariously.
  2. Television's storytelling created a false sense of understanding between people, making them feel connected to different lives. However, these narratives were often crafted and not authentic representations of reality.
  3. The rise of social media changed the game by giving real, diverse opinions from actual people, breaking down the 'Veil of Ignorance'. Now, individuals can see the real differences among people's values and experiences, making it clear that everyone is unique.

Neoliberalism is Back!

KERFUFFLE • 57 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Neoliberalism is making a comeback, resembling previous political patterns where promises of change ultimately benefit the elite.
  2. Past leaders like Obama and Trump had populist messages, but their actions often favored corporate interests instead of truly supporting the public.
  3. Current political moves are seen as repeating historical mistakes, with influential figures like Elon Musk drawing attention away from genuine worker empowerment.

Testing the Fascism Thesis

Unpopular Front • 79 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The fascism thesis is viewed as a framework to analyze Trump's behavior. It can help predict actions but must remain flexible to be valid.
  2. Key predictions include the potential for state-backed violence against political opponents and the suspension of civil liberties. If these things happen, it would strengthen the fascism theory.
  3. The reaction of the Biden administration to Trump shows challenges in maintaining democratic norms without appearing hypocritical. It's a balancing act that can complicate democratic practices.

commentary on xunzi's "enriching the state"

alice maz • 58 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Political theory
  1. Xunzi believed in the importance of hierarchy and meritocracy. He thought that the best people should lead, regardless of their birth or wealth, and that learning and self-improvement are key to being a good person.
  2. He argued that society needs clear distinctions and roles to function well. When everyone is equal in authority, it can cause chaos, so having a system with recognized roles helps maintain order.
  3. Xunzi felt that the government should help enrich its people, not just take resources from them. A successful state should create conditions for abundance, making the population better off overall.
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What Elites Do To Others...

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 90 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Elites often make tough decisions that primarily hurt those who are less privileged. They don't usually consider sacrificing their own benefits to help others.
  2. The current climate crisis is getting worse, with potential environmental disasters looming. Action from wealthy individuals and leaders is essential, but they often prioritize their own interests.
  3. Many billionaires believe they cannot be taxed effectively. There are ways to change this, but it requires strong policies and willingness to take action against the wealthy.

Between Mandala and Machine

Breaking Smart • 76 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Mandalas and machines represent two different approaches to societal organization. Mandalas focus on human relationships and caring, while machines focus on knowledge and efficiency.
  2. There's an ongoing shift from traditional machine politics to mandala-like systems, which rely on personal connections and shared values rather than strict institutions.
  3. To build a better societal machine, we need a mix of creativity and structure, resulting in a system that's both effective and aware of human needs.

Trump's Neo-Fusionism

Unpopular Front • 70 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Trump's new approach, called Neo-Fusionism, mixes both national populism and libertarian ideas. This means he supports average people's values while also favoring some libertarian policies.
  2. There's a conflict between wanting a strong government to push Trump's agenda and the libertarian wish to reduce government power. This creates challenges in balancing these different beliefs.
  3. Understanding the different thinkers, like Rothbard and Francis, helps to explain the complexities and contradictions in Trump's coalition and overall politics.

AMA: Ask a Donald Trump and Elon Musk Biographer Anything About the Ongoing Trump-Musk Civil War

Proof • 28 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. There's an ongoing conflict known as the Trump-Musk Civil War, which is gaining a lot of attention.
  2. A biographer of both Donald Trump and Elon Musk is answering questions about this conflict in an Ask Me Anything (AMA) format.
  3. People interested can ask questions and get insights directly from someone who has written extensively about both figures.

The Widening Gyre

Gideon's Substack • 57 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. There's a big difference between law and sheer power. Law can be understood and followed, while totalitarian regimes can do whatever they want without following the law.
  2. Biden's declaration about the Equal Rights Amendment raises questions. If he can declare something to be law just because he believes it, then what prevents future presidents from doing the same with their own beliefs?
  3. The whole situation might just be for show and not really change anything. This can make people lose trust in what the law actually is and think it's just about who has the most power.

Where Have the Good Oligarchs Gone?

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 55 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The real Left opposes the idea of the rich ruling over everyone else. If they don't get rid of the oligarchs, true self-rule won't happen.
  2. Oligarchs are gaining more power, especially with political figures like Donald Trump. This shift is concerning for democracy.
  3. Some political groups appear to embrace certain wealthy individuals, calling them 'good billionaires.' The actual Left wants to challenge and limit the power of all oligarchs, not just pick favorites.

Like Reagan With a Shotgun

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 50 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Trump's recent comments may seem like he wants to be a dictator, but many believe he’s just following a long history of neoliberalism in the U.S. since Reagan.
  2. Rather than creating something new, Trump is seen as continuing the trend of dismantling government powers, benefiting only the wealthy.
  3. Historically, those in power use chaos and confusion to implement conservative policies, and this is viewed as part of the same playbook used by past administrations.

Scrip, Apokálypsis, Ho'oponopono & High Strangeness

Dr. Pippa's Pen & Podcast • 53 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The shift in power from Biden to Trump has significant implications, including a new way of fundraising through cryptocurrencies that could change political contributions.
  2. Trump's new currency strategy could allow him more control over funding without relying solely on Congress, as he builds his own financial resources.
  3. There is growing unrest among military operatives regarding secrecy around Unidentified Aerial Phenomena, indicating a possible shift in how classified information is managed and revealed.

Curator

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 17 Dec 22
📖 Philosophy Political theory
  1. Mimesis is a powerful force in our lives, meaning we often look to others to decide what to want or do. While it's strong, we still have the freedom to make choices within that influence.
  2. Fukuyama's ideas about the 'end of history' suggest that liberal democracy has won but might overlook the ongoing ideological conflicts that still exist. His views can be criticized for being overly optimistic about the state of the world.
  3. Peer review in science has been criticized for not working well, as it often misses errors and limits innovative ideas. Instead of helping, it may create a closed-off system that stifles true progress.

Back to the Future

The Permanent Problem • 5 implied HN points • 01 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The future of work could involve less paid employment, allowing people to focus on personal passions and creativity. Instead of working just for wages, people might spend time on things that truly enrich their lives.
  2. Historically, working for wages was seen as a lack of freedom, but it has evolved to give individuals opportunities for independence. Moving towards a 'free labor' vision means enabling people to use their jobs as stepping stones to greater personal autonomy.
  3. Reducing reliance on traditional employment could foster stronger community and family ties. By bringing work back into the home and encouraging local productivity, people could find fulfillment not just in their jobs but in their personal lives and relationships.

The Dam Has Burst, The Floodgates Of Liberty Just Opened

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 69 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. A recent election result has given a strong mandate to a political party, signaling a shift toward liberty and smaller government. This change is seen as a positive move for many people who value personal freedom.
  2. The outcome of the election has put pressure on the mainstream media and the opposing political party to rethink their strategies. Many believe that the media's bias has hurt their credibility and trust with the public.
  3. There's a sense of hope that this election could lead to a lasting change in political ideologies, favoring less government and more freedom. People feel that this could be the start of a new era for the country's governance.

More Adorno; Trump's Paleocon Foreign Policy; Christopher Hitchens on Ross Perot

Unpopular Front • 47 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Adorno's ideas from his essay still resonate today. He suggests that leaders often present themselves as both powerful figures and relatable people.
  2. Fascist propaganda targets emotions rather than reason. It thrives by exploiting people's frustrations and existing beliefs without trying to change them.
  3. The concept of the 'great little man' is vital in fascist imagery, representing a leader who appears both ordinary and extraordinary, fulfilling followers' desires for authority.

The Dilemma of the Pacifist Lion

Breaking Smart • 21 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics 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.

Academics Are Terrible at Politics

Unsafe Science • 42 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Academics often struggle with political issues due to a lack of practical experience. They can be great at research but may not know how to deal with the complexities of politics.
  2. Improving the relationship between academia and politics could benefit both sides. It's important for academics to engage more in public discussions and understand political contexts.
  3. A thriving academic environment could help tackle the failings seen today. Finding better ways for academics to connect with society can lead to improvements.

In Praise of Sheep

The Corbett Report • 23 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
📖 Philosophy Political theory
  1. It's often easy to dismiss the masses as 'sheeple', but there might be more to them than just blind obedience. Seeing them as capable of change could inspire hope.
  2. If everyone 'woke up' and became aggressive, it could lead to a new group of tyrants. Instead, we should think of peaceful and creative ways to encourage change.
  3. Being peaceful and cooperative, like sheep, isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It could be a strength that fosters community and understanding rather than conflict.

Bad Moon Rising

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 17 implied HN points • 14 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. There are serious concerns that the U.S. could move toward a situation similar to past genocides, targeting groups like ethnic minorities and political opponents. It's important to pay attention to warning signs that are happening now.
  2. Rhetoric that dehumanizes certain groups, like calling immigrants 'poison,' mirrors language used in historical genocides. This shows how dangerous ideas can spread and lead to violence if left unchecked.
  3. The potential for future violence hinges on current politics and attitudes, especially among those in power. People need to be aware of these changes to help prevent them from escalating.

Stuck in the Middle With You

Some Unpleasant Arithmetic • 18 implied HN points • 29 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Moderate candidates often perform better in elections because they appeal to a wider range of voters. This suggests that being somewhat centrist can help win more votes.
  2. Voter preferences are shaped by deeper values and social factors, like trust and cultural norms. These influences can affect how people vote, even if those preferences seem irrational.
  3. While some argue that voters are not smart enough for democracy, it's essential to allow people to express their choices. This can lead to a better understanding of what the public really wants and needs.

Michael Lind Stands Up For The Oppressed

From the New World • 188 implied HN points • 12 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Michael Lind opposes the idea of a biological elite to prevent support for certain political factions.
  2. There is a division in the right between those who focus on policy and those who prioritize the interests they are fighting for.
  3. Lind's arguments are driven by his class interests and fear of a cross-elite coalition, rather than objective facts or truth.

'Who Is a Democrat?' Revisited

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 45 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Many people believe they are part of the Democratic Party, but actual membership is very limited. Only a small group has real power, while most voters have little influence.
  2. The Democratic Party has a complex structure, with layers of power that include voters, consultants, and those in authority. This affects how decisions are made.
  3. Even those on the left feel included in the Democratic Party's support structure, but they can't guide or influence its direction effectively. This creates a disconnect between grassroots supporters and party leaders.

The Election Won't Save Us. What Will?

JoeWrote • 55 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Elections alone won't bring real change; they often just keep things the same. People feel stuck and frustrated when their choices don't align with their values.
  2. To create change, it's important to organize and work together. Alone, individuals feel powerless, but together, they can make a difference.
  3. Taking even small steps, like joining a union or a community group, can help build power and connections among people. Every little action counts towards making a better world.

Giving Trump Just What He Wants

Gideon's Substack • 45 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Both violent actions and political pardons can push society closer to authoritarianism. It's important to recognize that these reactions stem from a belief that democracy is breaking down.
  2. Preemptively pardoning people can look like an abuse of power and may harm public trust. This kind of action might seem reasonable in response to threats, but can actually fuel more distrust and paranoia.
  3. Engaging in normal politics and upholding the rule of law is crucial. Abandoning these principles only strengthens authoritarian figures by giving them more reasons to justify their actions.

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

normality’s Substack • 19 implied HN points • 18 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Slogans can be easily misunderstood, so they need to have clear explanations and context when introduced. It's important to communicate what a slogan really means to avoid confusion.
  2. Both sides can use catchy slogans, but some may not align with classic liberal values of judging individuals fairly. It's essential to think about how to respond thoughtfully instead of just matching slogans.
  3. Classical liberalism is all about truth and positive communication. Instead of resorting to trolling, we should focus on being persuasive and maintaining faith in our principles.

A possible political resolution for our secular cycle crisis

America in Crisis • 39 implied HN points • 28 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The current political situation in the US could lead to a resolution of the secular cycle crisis involving a shift in political dynamics.
  2. Past political frameworks and party dynamics, such as Reagan's three-legged stool, influence the current landscape and potential future political paths.
  3. The potential for a Democratic dispensation in response to the MAGA movement could bring about political realignment and potentially resolve the excess elite problem inherent in the system.

Dawn in Syria; "On Violence;" Hegel on Revolution; "Say Nothing" on FX

Unpopular Front • 41 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Political theory
  1. The fall of Assad in Syria brings hope after years of a brutal civil war. People are celebrating and reuniting, showing how powerful and inspiring change can be.
  2. Even the strongest dictatorships can crumble quickly when the people rise up. This shows that real power comes from the consent of the people, not just force.
  3. The situation in Syria reminds us that democracy is about the people's will. When people collectively say 'no' to oppression, they can create significant change.

We Are All Precariat Now

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 31 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The current system creates a lot of fear and instability, making many people feel like they are struggling without options. The wealthy elite prioritize their profits, often at the expense of everyday people.
  2. It's important for people, especially those suffering in the U.S., to realize that their true enemy is not immigrants or foreign powers, but the billionaires and corporations taking advantage of them. Building a united front among workers can help fight back.
  3. Small groups are already taking action, like striking and forming mutual aid networks. These efforts can grow into a larger movement that challenges the current power structures and seeks a fairer distribution of wealth.

Commentator

Castalia • 39 implied HN points • 26 May 23
🌍 World Politics Political theory
  1. Putin's decision to invade Ukraine is linked to a shift in his beliefs and Ukraine's move towards the West. This brought the two into conflict.
  2. Many think Putin saw a chance to act when he believed the West, especially the U.S., was weak after events like the Afghanistan withdrawal.
  3. Despite the current challenges, Putin had a long period where he appeared strong on the world stage, influencing his risky decisions.

Liberalism Versus Democracy 2

From the New World • 32 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Political theory
  1. Liberalism hides the political aspect of society instead of getting rid of it. It uses a way of talking about politics that keeps its true nature hidden.
  2. Polarization, or disagreement, helps people understand their true values. It's not about making people hate each other; it's about revealing differing opinions.
  3. Social harmony can sometimes be enforced in a way that isn't natural. When that enforced order weakens, people's honest disagreements come to light.

The New American Revolution

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 31 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The U.S. is experiencing a significant political shift, referred to as a new revolution, which is unlike previous events in history. It’s driven largely by wealthy tech leaders and is reshaping power dynamics in the country.
  2. This revolution is being executed quietly through technology rather than through violent means like armies or revolts. Important systems, such as the U.S. Treasury payment system, are major targets for those seeking to take control.
  3. The goal of this movement goes beyond just changing leadership; it aims to fundamentally reshape people's beliefs and identities. This manipulation of 'subjectivity' could lead to a very different form of governance and society in America.

The American Secular Cycles

America in Crisis • 39 implied HN points • 04 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. America's history follows cyclical patterns of expansion, stagnation, crisis, and resolution, influenced by population growth, economic inequality, and elite competition.
  2. Secular cycles have been identified in American history from 1780 to 1930 and a current ongoing cycle since 1930, driven by demographic mechanisms and economic inequality.
  3. The resolution of past cycles involved significant events like the Civil War and the Great Depression, with policy responses playing a crucial role in resolving economic and political crises.

The Political Miscalculation of the "Squid Game" Rebellion And How To Avoid It In Real Life

JoeWrote • 29 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. _Squid Game_ reflects the harsh realities of capitalism and how it affects people's lives. The show serves as a warning about chasing wealth and the struggle between different classes.
  2. Despite its anti-capitalist message, many viewers misunderstand the show and view it as a celebration of capitalism. This shows how deeply some individuals can miss the real critique being presented.
  3. In the upcoming season, the characters will focus on fighting against the oppressive system. Their mistakes in planning a rebellion mirror real-life struggles faced by working-class movements.

Neutrality

Rough Diamonds • 40 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Political theory
  1. Neutrality is about treating all opinions equally, which helps people work together despite their differences. It’s important for creating spaces where cooperation can happen without conflict.
  2. Our current systems often lack trust and a shared understanding, making it hard for people to agree on basics. Building new systems of trust is crucial for moving forward.
  3. Institutions need to be more than just neutral; they should create a framework that supports healthy discussions and diverse viewpoints. This way, people can feel both included and understood.

A Solon, a King, or a Tyrant?

Gideon's Substack • 28 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. There are different views among Trump's supporters about what kind of leader they want him to be. Some see him as a potential king or tyrant, while others hope he can restore the republic.
  2. Many believe that Trump’s use of executive power might lead to a significant change in the American political system. This has sparked concerns about whether it could evolve into a form of dictatorship.
  3. It’s important to recognize the differences among supporters' visions for America’s future. Understanding these differences can help shape the opposition's strategy moving forward.

Peter Thiel is a Vampire

The Corbett Report • 37 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Peter Thiel is heavily involved in the tech and military sectors, linking his companies like PayPal and Palantir with governments and intelligence agencies. This raises questions about his true motivations and influence.
  2. He is a regular participant in exclusive meetings like the Bilderberg Group. Being part of the steering committee shows he has a significant role in shaping global discussions among powerful figures.
  3. Thiel claims to be a libertarian, but his actions suggest otherwise. His support for authoritarian practices and interest in life-extending technologies indicates a different set of priorities.