The hottest Political theory Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Philosophy Topics

The Epic, the Novel, and Rawls

From the New World • 5 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Epistemology Political theory Aesthetics Metaphysics
  1. Rawls' ideas about justice might be influenced by how people are portrayed in media, especially television. This could change how we see human nature and its differences.
  2. The concept of living through fiction, whether in novels or other narratives, has been around for a long time. It suggests that people have always had the ability to empathize with others, even without modern technology.
  3. Though television might make humanity seem more similar, earlier thinkers like Hobbes and Locke also explored human nature in unique ways, showing that this question is not new.

December 7, 2024

Letters from an American • 18 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Elections Political theory Governance Social Issues
  1. Barack Obama emphasizes that pluralism in democracy means working together with people who are different from us. It's not just about tolerance but creating alliances to tackle common issues.
  2. Obama explains that the U.S. Constitution supports pluralism by allowing diverse groups to negotiate and share power. This system helps protect minority rights and encourages collaboration.
  3. When faced with political challenges, Obama believes it's crucial to stand firm and seek support from unexpected allies. Common experiences and values can help bridge divides and rebuild trust in democracy.

Welcome to the Resi...lience: How to Resist Techno-authoritarianism and Grow the Regenerative Alternative

As If We Were Staying • 5 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Authoritarianism Economic Systems Resistance Movements
  1. The Superorganism is a way to describe a system that seeks to extract resources without caring for people or the planet. To resist it, we need to be aware of its blind spots and act where it least expects us.
  2. Our strategy should focus on breaking down the wealth and resources of the Superorganism. This means we should find ways to disrupt its systems and also create new, independent sources of wealth that aren't tied to it.
  3. Building a strong community outside of the Superorganism is key. By supporting local economies and working together, we can create resilience and sustainability while lessening the Superorganism's hold over us.

Monistic Idealism and Political Catastrophe

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 30 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political theory Political parties Social Issues Political History
  1. The writer feels disappointed with the Democratic Party for not supporting the working class and believes that they lost an opportunity for a better direction under Bernie Sanders.
  2. Many voters are feeling frustrated and disconnected from political figures like Kamala Harris, who they see as scripted and lacking authenticity.
  3. On a deeper level, the writer discusses their beliefs in idealism and the idea that awareness is the foundation of reality, influenced by various spiritual and philosophical traditions.

Cathy reads books: Tribalism is Dumb

Sex and the State • 10 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Political parties Gender Politics Social Issues
  1. The book 'Tribalism Is Dumb' talks about how political divisions can be harmful and suggests that understanding this could make the world better.
  2. It highlights that there are growing differences between groups in society, particularly between men and women and how they're viewed politically.
  3. The author feels that caring for and about boys and men is often unfairly labeled as a conservative idea, which could lead to negative impacts on all genders.
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Is Trudeau Following Putin's Lead And De-Nazifying Canada?

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 12 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Government actions Election Influence International relations Propaganda
  1. Trudeau may be emulating Putin's actions regarding Ukraine and the idea of 'de-Nazification', hinting at political shifts in Canada. It's important to consider how global leaders influence each other's policies.
  2. There are observations about former leaders and their connections to historical events, particularly surrounding WWII and Nazism, suggesting a complex political landscape.
  3. Some believe the legacy of certain political decisions—like US involvement in Ukraine—shapes current international relations and conflicts. This ongoing tension reflects deeper historical issues.

The Trad Marxism of George Grant

From the New World • 10 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Identity Populism Globalism Political theory Cultural criticism
  1. George Grant believed that Canada was heavily influenced by America, almost like a smaller country serving a larger one. He thought this relationship made Canada lose some of its national identity.
  2. He criticized the wealthy elites in Canada who were more focused on American business than the needs of their own citizens. This created a divide between the rich and the rural areas.
  3. Grant warned that without a strong central authority, countries could lose their national character. His ideas seem even more relevant today with the rise of global influences like the internet.

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.

Putin's New Peril

Diane Francis • 879 implied HN points • 22 Aug 22
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict analysis Political theory Russian Politics
  1. The recent assassination of Alexander Dugin's daughter in Moscow has shaken Russia and raised questions about its leadership. This event might signal internal strife within Russian powers as high-profile killings are uncommon there.
  2. Dugin, known as 'Putin's Rasputin', has greatly influenced Putin's policies. His ideas promote a confrontational stance against the West and support for aggressive tactics, including the ongoing war in Ukraine.
  3. Dugin's philosophy isn't limited to Russia; it has connections to far-right movements worldwide. The assassination could change public support for Putin's war, potentially increasing tensions within Russia and changing the war's dynamics.

November 30, 2024

Letters from an American • 19 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Democracy Elections Governance
  1. The fight to strengthen liberal democracy is more important than just battling the far right. This is about ensuring everyone's rights and protecting our democracy.
  2. Historically, American leaders sought a balance where government plays a role in protecting individuals from the actions of powerful interests. This became even more important as society evolved.
  3. Movement Conservatives have shifted how Americans view government, framing it as a threat to individual rights. In reality, a strong government is needed to protect those rights and ensure fairness for all.

Virtue in Two Acts

From the New World • 32 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Political theory Ethics Social Science
  1. Modern society may be more ignorant than previous ones, as we have created layers of belief and technology that distance us from true understanding. This is like being in a cave beneath another cave, where we lose sight of the bigger picture.
  2. Political philosophy, once a comprehensive study of human affairs, has become fragmented and superficial. This change means we often miss deeper truths and only focus on narrow aspects of social science.
  3. To truly understand political issues, we need to combine technical knowledge with an appreciation of human values. This balance helps us see what is good and guides our actions effectively.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 24.01.2025

steigan.no • 5 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Governance International relations Elections Public Policy
  1. Sometimes, leaders might create problems to make their solutions seem necessary. This idea is called 'problem-reaction-solution'.
  2. When big issues arise, some people believe they can push through changes they wanted all along, taking advantage of the situation. This is called opportunism.
  3. In a world pushed towards sustainability and inclusion, some worry that the goals might mainly benefit the wealthy while the general population suffers.

The Divine Right of Founders

From the New World • 21 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Political theory Ethics Social Philosophy Historical context
  1. Silicon Valley founders are seen as having a special power over their companies, similar to how kings ruled in the past. Their personal insight gives them a unique control that others can't match.
  2. Many believe that companies struggle when they lose their founders, as those leaders provide a sense of legitimacy and direction. This belief reflects a deep connection between leadership and success in startups.
  3. The idea that modern concepts of state and power come from religious ideas shows how intertwined our views of governance and business are. This connection could change how we see both companies and countries today.

Trump And The Evil "Deep State!"

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 18 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Government Structure Election Integrity Political Commentary Public Policy
  1. There's a belief that the real power in the U.S. isn't the deep state, but a group of wealthy elites who control the government for their own interests.
  2. Some people argue that the current political drama distracts from important issues, like how the rules and leadership are being shaped by money.
  3. The idea that public service and government jobs are under threat highlights a struggle between working people and a powerful corporate influence in politics.

Uneasy Riders: Part Two

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 17 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Social movements
  1. Acknowinging,理解ing,和接受我们内心的不同部分是重要的。我们的心理包含许多碎片，直面这些部分可能有助于我们成长。
  2. 文化和社会正在经历一种集体的精神占有现象，这种现象可能会导致极端的行为和信念的普遍传播。
  3. 我们需要超越肤浅的反应，深入探讨社会和生态问题的根源，以此找出更深层次的解决方案。

The Trad Marxism of George Grant, Part 3

From the New World • 5 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Political theory Ethics Secularism Religion Humanism
  1. George Grant believes that the idea of limits is tied to the idea of God, meaning there are moral boundaries we should not cross. This suggests that some things are simply wrong, regardless of our opinions.
  2. The political legitimacy in society has shifted since divine authority was lost, making people look for new sources of legitimacy. This includes reliance on science and the founders of nations.
  3. It's unclear if Grant's view of God is unique to Christianity or if he could see value in other religions like Islam or Hinduism. He seems to focus more on the concept of a higher limit than on specific religious practices.

'Who Is a Democrat?' Revisited

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 45 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Democratic Party Electoral 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.

Links to Consider, 3/7

In My Tribe • 318 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Activism Conservatism Foreign Relations
  1. Girard's mimetic theory explains how desires are often copied from others, leading to a cycle of crisis and scapegoating in communities.
  2. Noah Smith points out the shift in progressive causes towards Palestine, indicating a potential change in the unrest of the 2010s.
  3. Charles Kesler highlights the difference between National Conservatism and American Conservatism in terms of prioritizing individual vs. group rights.

Recent Notes...

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 23 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Public Policy Political Commentary Cultural analysis Political Philosophy
  1. Understanding C.P. Snow's idea of 'The Two Cultures' can help bridge the gap between technical and humanities disciplines. People can become smarter by learning from both sides.
  2. John Ganz is pointed out as a smart and hard-working person who could benefit from this balanced approach. Learning from different fields can enhance one's thinking and decision-making.
  3. It's important to encourage others to broaden their horizons, as this can lead to personal and professional growth. Sharing knowledge across different areas is valuable for everyone's development.

Links to Consider, 2/25

In My Tribe • 318 implied HN points • 25 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Political theory Cultural analysis Economic Impact Religious Studies Government transparency
  1. In some areas, class status is heavily influenced by college education and the prestigious Yankee settled areas.
  2. Martin Gurri envisions a future where the online electorate has more direct engagement in government and information is more transparent.
  3. It's important to consider the long-term effects of defense spending on the economy, as resources might be more beneficial if allocated elsewhere.

Trump, the Ballot, and the State of Exception

In My Tribe • 379 implied HN points • 07 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Sovereignty Governance
  1. In extreme cases of emergency, the law may not be able to handle the situation effectively.
  2. Political officials in some states are making decisions that can be seen as declaring a 'state of exception.'
  3. The issue of sovereignty and decision-making power has been a point of contention during crises like the 2020 election and the COVID pandemic.

Prove Yarvin Wrong

Becoming Noble • 239 implied HN points • 31 Jan 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Conservative movement
  1. Yarvin discusses the concept of 'hobbits' and 'dark elves' as classes on the right, highlighting the importance of elites in shaping political realities.
  2. Yarvin points out the dispersion of power in non-democratic institutions like the media and academia, leading to a progressive political consensus that resists change.
  3. The essay suggests the need to elevate 'hobbits' to 'dark elves' status to create a new elite capable of challenging the current power structures and instigating change.

What Elites Do To Others...

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 90 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Social justice Government Policy Wealth Inequality Civil Rights
  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.

Electoral Blues

Tessa Fights Robots • 24 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political theory Civic engagement Public Sentiment Political Commentary
  1. Many political elections feel like a game or theater to some people. They believe real change doesn't come from just voting, but from facing what's truly going on around us.
  2. Our personal power to create change comes from how we manage our energy and connect with others. It's about clarity, love, and courage in our daily lives.
  3. Instead of getting caught up in elections, we should focus on our inner strength and the courage to stand up against those who try to control us. We have the ability to change the world ourselves.

Is more democracy the answer to our problems?

Theory Matters • 7 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Elections Political theory Governance Public Opinion
  1. Democracy can lead to results that many people dislike, but it's important to accept those results to keep the system functioning. This acceptance is called 'loser’s acceptance' and is crucial for a healthy democracy.
  2. Some thinkers suggest that we need more democracy to solve problems, arguing that involving more people in the process allows for better representation of diverse opinions and issues.
  3. However, there are concerns about whether increasing participation can really fix democratic issues, especially if citizens are misinformed or disillusioned about the system, which could lead to instability.

The Year of Failing To Understand.

Trying to Understand the World • 9 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict resolution International relations Political theory Geopolitics Military Strategy
  1. In 2024, the West struggled to understand global events, often failing to grasp the real reasons behind them. This gap in understanding is seen as a mix of ignorance and arrogance.
  2. There are deeper issues at play in conflicts, such as the role of religion and the nature of violence in different societies. These aspects often go unnoticed in western perspectives, leading to misinterpretations of motivations.
  3. As global dynamics shift, the West's old ways of thinking are becoming less effective. The next year could bring important changes that the West will need to face, potentially leading to new opportunities and understandings.

The Temptations of Carl Schmitt

The Upheaval • 816 implied HN points • 14 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Totalitarianism Political theory Authoritarianism Nihilism Critical Theory
  1. Carl Schmitt's ideas have made a resurgence in disaffected political circles, especially on the right, reflecting a trend of his concepts becoming more mainstream.
  2. Schmitt's study of political chaos in post-World War I Germany offers insights into today's political, cultural, and spiritual upheavals.
  3. Schmitt's concept of 'friend-enemy distinction,' the central domain of politics, ties into today's identity politics and struggles for power.

This Proletariat Revolution Sure Is Taking Its Sweet-Ass Time

I Might Be Wrong • 11 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social movements Political theory Class Struggle
  1. Lenin believed in taking action to spark a revolution instead of waiting for a natural progression in society. He thought the working class needed a push to rise up against the ruling class.
  2. Leftist thinkers often feel frustrated because they expect a revolution to happen any time now, but that moment seems to delay indefinitely. Recent events are sometimes misinterpreted as signs of that needed uprising.
  3. The motivations behind recent violent actions are complex and not always tied to broader class struggles, making it hard to see them as a beginning of widespread change against capitalism.

The Dictatorship of Dysfunction

From the New World • 16 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Sovereignty Bureaucracy Political theory Legitimacy
  1. Bureaucracies can become dysfunctional over time, leading to questions about a state's ability to function effectively. It's important for leaders at all levels to make decisions and act decisively.
  2. To improve government processes, we should move away from outdated methods like the waterfall hierarchy. Instead, adopting agile approaches that focus on user feedback can make a big difference.
  3. The relationship between state power and individual freedom is complicated. Understanding this tension can help us see why some political structures struggle to adapt and remain effective.

Yes, the "Woke Right" is real

Reactionary Feminist • 9 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Culture Wars Conservatism Social movements
  1. The idea of a 'Woke Right' exists and may provide a better perspective than the traditional Right or Left views. It challenges the notion that all 'wokeness' is negative.
  2. Some people argue that the 'Woke Right' aligns with cultural critiques similar to those seen on the Left, but it can also strive to connect with more positive values like goodness and beauty.
  3. The discussion around the 'Woke Right' is often defensive, suggesting a pushback against new ways of thinking in politics and culture, rather than just about denying or ignoring these changes.

On “Disagreement” and the Presidential Power to Adjourn Congress

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 16 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Constitutional Law Executive Power Political theory
  1. The president has a constitutional power to adjourn Congress, but this power has never been used before. It's a rare and complex topic with many possible interpretations.
  2. If the president tries to adjourn Congress without proper disagreement between the House and Senate, it might not be seen as valid. Both houses need to clearly express their disagreement for it to count.
  3. Using this presidential power could lead to a serious constitutional crisis. The Senate could ignore a presidential adjournment, causing confusion and potential court challenges.

JJM vs. Alexander Dugin

John’s Substack • 10 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Political theory Geopolitics Conflict Studies
  1. Alexander Dugin is a major thinker in Russia and is considered influential in Russian politics, often linked to Putin.
  2. He has strong opinions on many topics, particularly the Ukraine war, and is known for being a controversial figure in the West.
  3. Dugin's ideas are complex and well-developed, and whether people agree with him or not, his work is likely to have a lasting impact.

Economics still matters for policy

Economic Forces • 14 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Analysis Economics Political theory Market Dynamics Public Administration
  1. Prices show us what's scarce and push us to change our behaviors. They aren't just random numbers—they have meaning.
  2. When something gets more expensive, people usually try to find a cheaper alternative. Higher costs lead to less demand.
  3. Every choice we make comes with trade-offs. If we spend on one thing, we might have to give up something else.

[Transcript] The Political Theory of Liberal Socialism with Matt McManus

JoeWrote • 8 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Socialism Liberalism Labor Movement Democratic Party
  1. Liberal socialism combines ideas from both liberalism and socialism. It supports the idea that the economy should be democratic while protecting personal rights and properties.
  2. Socialists can also embrace liberal principles like freedom of expression and religious toleration. The relationship between socialism and liberalism is complex, and both sides can learn from each other.
  3. To achieve change, rebuilding the labor movement is essential. Socialists can work within the Democratic Party while also considering creating alternative parties to push for more leftist policies.

Bare Existence

Castalia • 179 implied HN points • 30 Apr 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Political theory Social Critique Work Culture Power Dynamics
  1. People in low-status jobs often experience 'bare existence,' where their work feels repetitive and lacking in connection. This can lead to a dehumanizing feeling in the work environment.
  2. Power isn't just about money or social class; it shapes how people experience their lives and work, often pushing them into roles that feel empty or robotic.
  3. The struggle for status in society can be brutal, as people fear being reduced to a state of 'bare existence,' leading them to chase power and privilege, even in jobs that don't truly fulfill them.

The Wisdom To Choose Action or Inaction

Who is Robert Malone • 14 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Ethics Social Sciences Complex Systems Political theory Human behavior
  1. It's important to understand the difference between complicated systems, like computers, and complex systems, like ecosystems or human societies. Complex systems are unpredictable and can't always be controlled with precise interventions.
  2. When dealing with complex systems, sometimes it's better to wait and observe rather than rush to act. Taking a careful, incremental approach can help prevent unintended consequences.
  3. Censorship and forced social engineering can hinder our ability to adapt and learn from experiences. Encouraging free communication and decentralized thinking is crucial for innovation and growth.

Marx vs. Proudhon

Philosophy for the People w/Ben Burgis • 119 implied HN points • 16 Apr 23
📖 Philosophy Reflections Teaching Political theory
  1. The author is starting a new class on Proudhon's 'The Philosophy of Poverty' and Marx's 'The Poverty of Philosophy'.
  2. The author reflects on having taught a class on 'Capital' and mentions skipping a YouTube chat with Stefan.
  3. The author reminisces about teaching their first class, 'Introduction to Symbolic Logic', at Western Michigan University in fall 2004.