The hottest Political theory Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Philosophy Topics

Epstein, Nothingburger

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 100 implied HN points • 17 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Trump is urging Republicans to support a bill that would release some documents related to Epstein. This bill could make around 100,000 pages of information available, but not everything can be fully disclosed.
  2. No matter what is released about Epstein's case, it won't satisfy everyone. There will always be conspiracy theories and doubts when it comes to something as serious as this.
  3. The released information is unlikely to harm Trump’s presidency significantly. The real issue may be that the focus on Epstein could lead to misunderstandings of his actions or intentions.

This Chinese philosopher reformed politics in one generation

The Novelleist • 923 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Political theory
  1. Mòzǐ believed that political corruption in ancient China came from leaders acting in their own self-interest. He thought that if everyone cared about the community instead of just themselves, society would improve.
  2. He started a movement called 'inclusive care' that focused on helping others and making decisions for the benefit of all. This idea gained support among the middle class, leading to initiatives that helped the poor and promoted social welfare.
  3. Mòzǐ's efforts led to changes in government where more community-minded leaders emerged. His teachings inspired reforms that improved society, but ultimately Confucianism became the dominant philosophy in China.

The Permanent Stain

The Weekly Dish • 263 implied HN points • 08 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The first year of Trump's presidency has been a win for autocratic governance in the U.S. It suggests a shift towards less democratic norms.
  2. The impact of these changes may last for a long time. Once certain political standards are broken, they can be hard to restore.
  3. People are concerned about the future of democracy in America. Many feel that the current political landscape is deteriorating.

The Weak Strongman

Thinking about... • 731 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Trump's style of leadership can seem strong, but it's actually making America weaker on the world stage. His actions are damaging key government institutions and alliances.
  2. While many Americans fear Trump's behavior, he doesn’t inspire the same fear abroad. Instead, other countries see his actions as a chance to gain more power without concern for his threats.
  3. Trump's government strategy relies on chaos and destruction rather than solid policies. This creates a situation where adversaries like Russia and China can take advantage of America's declining strength.

Proem to the Aenean Future

Contemplations on the Tree of Woe • 927 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The future holds challenges around resource scarcity, but there's hope in human creativity and technology. People believe we can find solutions to navigate tough times ahead.
  2. Emphasizing the need for green energy and a sustainable way of life is crucial. Society must transition to alternative energy sources, like solar and hydrogen, while addressing environmental concerns.
  3. Space exploration could become practical and profitable. Investing in space tech might help solve Earth's resource problems and allow humanity to expand beyond our planet.
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Elite Human Capital in Open and Closed Cultures

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 755 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. People with high human capital often prefer reading and writing over watching videos or listening to podcasts. This preference comes from a higher intelligence and a desire for deeper understanding.
  2. Not all groups with high human capital are liberal; some can be conservative. However, these conservative groups may create closed cultures that do not accept different views.
  3. Currently, in American politics, there is a divide between open-minded thinkers with high human capital and those who are less open and informed. This division shapes political discussions and community attitudes.

🗽 The legacy and future of liberalism: A Quick Q&A with … economist Deirdre McCloskey

Faster, Please! • 365 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Liberalism is about promoting individual freedom and innovation, not just a political label. It helps create a better future by focusing on people's rights and opportunities.
  2. The meaning of liberalism can change depending on where you are. In the U.S., it often leans toward social democracy, while in places like Latin America, it can mean supporting wealthy people's interests.
  3. Liberalism reflects a natural human desire for freedom and connection. Many believe it's key for a hopeful future, moving away from oppression or control.

Why the New York Jewish Left’s Little Magazine "Dissent" Still Has Much Unfinished Business

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 292 implied HN points • 10 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Dissent magazine is important for holding power accountable and promoting progressive change. It's not just about opposing ideas; it's about helping to create workable policies for society.
  2. The idea of 'passing the baton' means that those who are more experienced should support newer, more left-leaning voices in politics. It's about cooperation rather than just stepping back.
  3. In today's political climate, a strong magazine like Dissent is needed to fight against authoritarianism and ensure that diverse viewpoints are heard. It's crucial for meaningful change to keep discussions alive.

Mamdani vs. Skeffington: Maybe American Politics Is Getting Less Anti-Rational?

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 315 implied HN points • 28 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. American voters are starting to get tired of extreme outrage and are looking for calmer, more rational leaders like Zohran Mamdani.
  2. In today's political landscape, behaving with decorum and self-control can help a candidate stand out among the noise of emotional drama.
  3. While local elections may reward reason and policy, it's uncertain if this trend will be the same in broader elections, where spectacle may still hold sway.

Nixon, Gore, the paths not taken

America in Crisis • 99 implied HN points • 24 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The end of the postwar economy was marked by stagflation due to the end of the gold standard in 1971 and fiscal deficits, impacting inflation and unemployment.
  2. The 1960 election acknowledged the risk of deficits on gold reserves, foreseen by Nixon, while Gore in 2000 aimed to maintain fiscal responsibility and pay down debt from surpluses.
  3. Political decisions from the 1960s to the 2000s reveal a shift in economic policies, with the consequences of deficit spending, tax cuts, and financial instability influencing different presidencies and shaping economic outcomes.

The Post-Cold War Apotheosis of Liberal Managerialism

The Upheaval • 1065 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. There's been a big shift where the lines between government power and everyday life have blurred. This change makes it easier for the state to control personal freedoms and decisions.
  2. The rise of global governance has been fueled by a blend of neoliberal and neoconservative ideologies. This partnership pushes for more control over international finance and politics to achieve a unified agenda.
  3. Managerialism has taken over many aspects of society, promoting the idea that experts can and should manage every part of life. This creates a system where individual freedoms may be sacrificed for the sake of efficiency and control.

Producers and Parasites

In My Tribe • 759 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Political elites can be divided into two groups: producers who create goods and services and parasites who rely on those producers for income. This distinction helps understand their political leanings.
  2. Some professions, like lawyers and government workers, can straddle the line between being productive and parasitic. Not all roles in these fields are equally beneficial to society.
  3. There is debate about the Woke movement. Some see them as part of the parasitic group, while others argue that many symbolic professionals also contribute positively to society.

The Death of USAID

Can We Still Govern? • 275 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. USAID was a key organization for helping people worldwide, especially regarding food aid and fighting diseases. Its sudden end could lead to a lot of unnecessary suffering.
  2. The actions taken against USAID relied on controversial ideas about presidential power, which some believe could harm the balance of government authority in the U.S.
  3. Misinformation and conspiracy theories played a big role in dismantling USAID, showing how unchecked beliefs from powerful individuals can lead to real-life consequences for many around the world.

Realism without the Tragedy?

Taipology • 55 implied HN points • 29 Nov 25
🌍 World Politics Political theory
  1. War often comes from the rise of new powers, and resisting this change can lead to conflict. It's important for existing powers to find a way to incorporate rising powers into the order to avoid war.
  2. Honor, fear, and interest are the main reasons for war, not just economics. Clear communication about boundaries is crucial to prevent misunderstandings that can lead to major conflicts.
  3. Current leaders may lack the imagination to see the dangers of nuclear war. We must remember the lessons of the past and not underestimate the consequences of modern warfare.

Be TERRIFIED RIGHT NOW DAMN YOU

Disaffected Newsletter • 1358 implied HN points • 12 Jan 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Some people want you to feel scared like they do, or else they might react negatively towards you. It's more about their emotions than actual danger.
  2. Genuinely scared people usually seek relief from their fears, while 'scared' people may be using their fear to manipulate others.
  3. Recent fears, like about gas stoves, often come from media hype rather than real, observed problems, suggesting we're becoming overly reliant on studies to form our opinions.

On the "elite overproduction" problem

In My Tribe • 774 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The idea of 'elite overproduction' suggests that there are too many people aiming for top positions, which leads to instability. However, many college graduates still find good jobs, showing this idea might not hold true.
  2. Mounk argues that while many pursue fame in arts and media, this ambition has always existed. It can't explain the current issues in society.
  3. There are concerns that some sectors, like nonprofit and education, prioritize their own status too much, leading to a misunderstanding of what 'elite' really means.

Shah Shah a Come Come

Wrong Side of History • 284 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  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.

Inaugurious

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 673 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The author plays with the idea of words and their meanings, suggesting the creation of a new word 'inaugurious', meaning something that doesn't bode well. It highlights how language can evolve and hold double meanings.
  2. A personal memory is shared about spending time in a condo with a runaway and watching soap operas. It paints a picture of a carefree yet troubled youth, emphasizing the mix of nostalgia and chaos in that phase of life.
  3. The story includes a unique dog that had a gentle nature but was known to growl at ghosts. This adds an eerie and humorous twist, making readers consider what the dog saw in the author.

Rethinking Collapse

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 236 implied HN points • 23 Jul 25
📖 Philosophy Political theory
  1. Collapse doesn't always mean disaster; it can open up new possibilities for more humane living. Instead of seeing it as a loss, we might see it as a chance to rebuild society better.
  2. There are different ways to bring about change: peaceful methods through elections, forceful overthrow, or natural system collapse. Each method carries its own risks and potential benefits.
  3. The idea of civilization has often been romanticized, but collapsing big structures can allow communities to thrive independently, leading to a simpler, yet more supportive way of life.

🌎 My Q&A with Francis Fukuyama on technological change and liberal democracy. Some sci-fi, too!

Faster, Please! • 822 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The impact of technology on society has both positive and negative effects. While the internet has helped people access information and organize for their rights, it has also created a lot of misinformation and chaos.
  2. Government regulation of AI and new technologies is complex and challenging. It's important to have experts in the field, but the existing systems might make it hard to adapt quickly enough.
  3. Science fiction can help us think about the future and its potential dangers. While many stories focus on dystopia, they also provide us with important lessons about the risks and benefits of new technologies.

How Fascism Came

The Chris Hedges Report • 676 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. America's democracy is facing big problems because both major political parties have sided with big companies and the rich. This has created a lot of social inequality and hurt ordinary people.
  2. The idea of fascism can grow when people feel left out and hopeless about their futures. If the needs of the struggling middle class and poor aren't addressed, it can lead to dangerous movements.
  3. The media and politics today often feel like a show, with truth taking a backseat to entertainment. This makes it hard for people to see what's really happening in society.

Will you explain anarchism to me?

The Novelleist • 781 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Political theory
  1. Anarchism is about creating a society without centralized power or authority. It acknowledges that people might still try to gain power, but the goal is to build a culture that resists such authority.
  2. There are questions about how to protect communities striving for anarchy while facing external threats. People are thinking about ways to create temporary spaces of freedom and coordinate efforts across different regions.
  3. For anarchism to flourish, there needs to be a shared global sentiment among people. It’s essential to imagine what an anarchist society could look like, as this vision can help guide the movement.

Team Technocrat vs. Team Woke

In My Tribe • 774 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The Democratic Party has two main groups: Team Technocrat and Team Woke. Both seem to be trying to gain influence after the recent election.
  2. The outcome of the election is being interpreted differently, and it's not a clear win or loss for either faction. Events leading up to the 2028 election could change everything.
  3. Swing voters might not see certain candidates, like Kamala Harris, as legitimate. They tend to prefer candidates who seem more credible and have campaigned actively.

Disaction Bias: When Doing Nothing Causes Disaster

Viruses Must Die • 35 implied HN points • 24 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. People and institutions often default to doing nothing even when action would prevent predictable harm; the coined term "disaction" captures this refusal to act that leads to avoidable disasters.
  2. A mix of psychological and institutional forces — omission bias, exaggerating the risks of acting while downplaying the risks of doing nothing, futility bias, vetos and status pressures, decorum, and failure of imagination — push decision‑makers toward inaction.
  3. Giving this bias a name makes it easier to spot across medicine, science, environment, housing, and government, and reminds us to try sensible actions, admit failures, and reform systems that reward safe-looking inaction.

Tax Breaks for the Rich

Fake Noûs • 572 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The current tax system in the U.S. is very progressive, meaning the rich pay a larger percentage of their income in taxes, but some believe it's still not fair for the wealthy.
  2. There are different arguments about how taxes should be distributed, like paying based on ability, benefits received, or costs incurred, but many don't support the idea of higher tax rates for the rich.
  3. Some argue that high taxes on the rich hurt economic growth by discouraging investment and productivity, suggesting that everyone, including the middle class, should contribute to taxes more fairly.

Why Are Some Of Our Most Successful Leaders Mentally Ill?

The Ruffian • 510 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  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.

The Meaning of America

Fake Noûs • 224 implied HN points • 12 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. July 4th used to symbolize freedom and independence, but now it often feels like just a chance to party with fireworks and food. Many people seem to forget what the holiday is really about.
  2. The Declaration of Independence expresses strong beliefs about everyone having unalienable rights and the government's role to protect them. The founders had real courage and took huge risks to declare their independence.
  3. America was built on the idea that people should stand up against unfair government actions, and these values seem less emphasized today compared to the past. There's a sense that many people today may not understand or appreciate that history.

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 • 246 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics 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.

Good politics means that people go to brunch

Demodexio • 264 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Good politics should allow people to enjoy their lives, like going out to brunch with friends. It's important for people to have meaningful connections and share good moments.
  2. Some people criticize others for enjoying life, thinking protests are better. However, wanting to improve society should include making life enjoyable for everyone.
  3. If you want to change things effectively, it's important to be knowledgeable and serious about policies and history. This understanding helps create real change instead of just complaining.

The MAGA meltdown; Mamdani's Rainbow Coalition; Remembering Tatsuya Nakadai

Unpopular Front • 53 implied HN points • 16 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The MAGA coalition seems to be falling apart, with some internal conflicts highlighted recently. There are discussions about how this division might affect their political ideas and alliances.
  2. There is ongoing debate about antisemitism within the right-wing communities. Some individuals claim that skepticism towards Israel doesn't equate to hatred of Jews.
  3. A controversial figure recently made public remarks suggesting that certain Jewish intellectuals deserve negative treatment from extremist groups. This highlights the tension and dangerous rhetoric surrounding antisemitism in current political conversations.

SBSQ #15: Democrats have a "fool me twice" problem

Silver Bulletin • 642 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Voters often feel betrayed when political parties don't keep their promises, which can lead them to punish those parties, even if they prefer their policies in the long run.
  2. Democrats have faced a challenge where their messages seem abstract and hard to connect with, making it difficult for voters to feel excited or trust them.
  3. Prediction markets and other indicators may make accurate calls about races, but there's a question of whether they are just lucky or truly insightful, reflecting the unpredictability of voter behavior.

My Debate with Curtis Yarvin

In My Tribe • 486 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Democracy allows for change in leadership, which can prevent bad leaders from staying in power. It's important that citizens can vote out leaders who aren't doing a good job.
  2. Absolute monarchies might seem appealing as they could mean strong leadership, but they come with risks like power struggles and potential tyranny. History shows that not all leaders are good.
  3. Choosing leaders based on competence is essential. In democracy, we try to pick capable people, while in monarchies, we might end up with unstable or dangerous leaders.

Trumpomuskovia

Thinking about... • 608 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. History can show us patterns that help us understand our current problems. It's not about predicting the future, but recognizing familiar issues we can learn from.
  2. Four possible scenarios for America's future highlight risks like secession, increasing authoritarianism, and the influence of oligarchs. Each scenario shows how history might repeat itself in troubling ways.
  3. Inequality is a key theme in these scenarios. Any hope for improving America's situation will have to tackle issues of wealth and power differences in society.

Leaders, Followers, and Casuals

In My Tribe • 516 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Leaders are politicians or intellectuals who have strong opinions on various issues, but their reasoning may not always be sound. They often justify their views with logical arguments, even if those arguments aren't based on the truth.
  2. Followers support leaders but don't deeply engage with the reasoning behind their positions. They can easily switch their support to a different leader if they change their stance, similar to sports fans shifting their allegiance.
  3. Casuals are not very informed about politics and only pay attention during major events like elections. They might make poor choices due to their lack of knowledge, while leaders and followers can also create problems by clinging to biased beliefs.

The Strongman Fantasy (updated 11/24)

Thinking about... • 611 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Many Americans are drawn to the idea of a strongman leader, thinking he will solve problems. However, such leaders often do not have the people's best interests at heart and tend to misuse their power.
  2. Under a dictatorship, fear and mistrust grow in society. People start to betray each other, and everyday life becomes governed by intimidation, harming both public and private relationships.
  3. The fantasy of a strongman achieving quick results often leads to a decline in quality of life for everyone, except for those close to the leader. Ultimately, the strongman weakens society and creates widespread discontent.

Essay Club: Cryptocracy by John Carter

Mind & Mythos • 99 implied HN points • 20 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Power can be hard to see and understand in a managerial state, making it feel confusing and hidden.
  2. John Carter's essay, 'Cryptocracy', dives into political themes and critiques the modern elite's control, and it's thought-provoking even if you disagree with it.
  3. Carter writes in a bold and experimental style, using vivid imagery to explore complex ideas about society and power.

The Oversized Conglomerate

In My Tribe • 653 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. A government that does a few things well is better than one that tries to do many things poorly. When the government gets involved in too many areas, it often struggles to manage them effectively.
  2. The federal government acts like a big, clumsy business conglomerate. It has overlapping agencies and goals that conflict, making it hard to oversee and improve its work.
  3. When considering government interventions, we should expect them to be less effective than planned. This means we should rethink how much we ask the government to do and focus on making sure it does a few things really well.

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 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.