The hottest Political theory Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Philosophy Topics

Links to Consider, 3/7

In My Tribe • 318 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  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.

Reminder: Zoom Q&A Tonight

Nonzero Newsletter • 112 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. There's a Zoom Q&A scheduled for tonight where topics will include the early weeks of Trump 2.0. It's a chance to discuss other NonZero-related subjects as well.
  2. The call starts at 8 pm Eastern Time and will last about 90 minutes. Make sure to join if you're interested in these topics!
  3. This post is meant for paid subscribers, so if you're not subscribed, you might need to sign up to participate in the discussion.

What are the chances you’re right about everything?

Optimally Irrational • 42 implied HN points • 23 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Political beliefs often come in bundles that can seem inconsistent. For example, people on the left might support social justice and climate change, while those on the right favor traditional values and small government.
  2. The way we form our political views isn't purely based on clear principles; often, they reflect the interests of various groups or coalitions. This means that people sometimes adopt positions based on their group rather than personal beliefs.
  3. It's unlikely that any of us are completely right about everything in politics. Our views can be influenced by bias and may not always align with our principles, so it’s important to stay humble and open-minded about differing opinions.

I Hope I'm Wrong

Unpopular Front • 153 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. It's important to trust your instincts, even when others disagree. Sometimes, being confident in your own analysis brings clarity in uncertain times.
  2. Having a strong, clear vision is crucial in politics. If you don't present a bold idea of the future, it makes it hard for people to rally behind you.
  3. Adapting to new situations and challenges is key. Old tactics might not work anymore, and new strategies need to be developed to build support and create change.

The Vatnik Tell

Phillips’s Newsletter • 128 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Political theory
  1. The term 'non-aligned' is a key point in discussions about Ukraine's future and its relationships with NATO and Russia.
  2. For Ukraine to maintain this 'non-aligned' status, it can't join NATO or host foreign troops for security.
  3. The statements from different speakers show a consistent view that Ukraine must stay clear of foreign military influence to avoid escalating tensions.
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Links to Consider, 2/25

In My Tribe • 318 implied HN points • 25 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Political theory
  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.

Requiem For The West

The Weekly Dish • 93 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Trump and Vance have a significant impact on global freedom. Their actions may threaten democratic values.
  2. The discussion reflects concerns about the direction of Western policies and leadership. Many people are worried about the stability of these values.
  3. The piece suggests that current events could lead to a decline in the West's influence in the world. There's a feeling that this could be a turning point.

Returning to Origins

Unpopular Front • 103 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The idea of endless expansion is central to certain political and economic beliefs. It suggests that growth is the ultimate goal, often seen in capitalist thinking.
  2. Many thinkers, like Arendt, have been quoted and referenced without fully understanding their ideas. This results in misinterpretations of their work and less meaningful conversations about important issues.
  3. The current alliance between different societal groups, like tech-oligarchs and the mob, shows a shared mindset that prioritizes power and accumulation, often at the expense of ethical considerations.

Kamala Harris and the Rise of Progressive Nothing Politics

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 146 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Kamala Harris's speeches often lack substance and fail to inspire listeners. People are noticing that she repeats the same ideas without offering new insights.
  2. The idea of 'Progressive Nothing Politics' suggests a decline in meaningful political discourse, especially within the progressive left.
  3. This shift in politics could lead to a tough future for candidates like Harris, as voters may be looking for more engaging and concrete proposals.

Leviathan and Behemoth

Some Unpleasant Arithmetic • 40 implied HN points • 06 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The Abundance agenda is seen as a new take on old neoliberal ideas, emphasizing economic growth and technology. It's about building more and reducing unnecessary regulations to foster progress.
  2. Three main movements influence the Abundance ideology: YIMBYism which calls for more housing, progress studies focusing on technological development, and state capacity libertarianism that balances market and government roles.
  3. Despite its good intentions, the Abundance agenda faces skepticism as it may repeat the mistakes of neoliberalism, risking the same pitfalls of inequality and ineffective governance.

Malaparte vs. de Beauvoir; Idi Amin and the Mamdanis' Antifascism

Unpopular Front • 40 implied HN points • 07 Jul 25
📚 Literature Political theory
  1. Fascism is complicated and often came from people who were artistic or bohemian but used their creativity for power. Malaparte, a fascist writer, shows how conflicting ideas can exist in one person's life.
  2. Simone de Beauvoir described an 'adventurer' type who pursues personal glory without caring about others. This fits Malaparte, who was selfish and couldn't appreciate the value of human connection.
  3. The background of Uganda's Asian population during British colonization highlights how racial divisions shaped society. Idi Amin's expulsion of this group was influenced by historical class and race dynamics.

Elon versus the USG

Gray Mirror • 146 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Elon Musk may be more valuable on Earth than in space. Some believe his ideas could improve how the US government works instead of focusing on Mars.
  2. The US government is more bureaucratic than it seems. Many people think the President is in charge, but Congress actually has more control over decisions and spending.
  3. Restoring the Constitution and fixing the government may not be possible. The systems in place now are so different that some question if the Constitution is even relevant today.

The origin of woke: a George Mason view

Gray Mirror • 108 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Wokeness is seen as a form of signaling virtue. People often support wokeness to show they are nice and moral, which helps them gain status in social groups.
  2. The origin of wokeness is linked to the desire to treat everyone equally, promoting good behavior, especially in diverse societies. It's about showing you care about people from different backgrounds.
  3. Discussing group differences and how they impact social status is important. Wokeness evolves to maintain its status, often distancing itself from less socially aware groups.

The Courts and the Will of the People

Fisted by Foucault • 123 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The judiciary holds significant power in government as it can strike down laws, which can complicate the legislative process. This means popular reforms can be blocked by court decisions.
  2. Western democracies are designed with checks and balances, but political divisions often create gridlock, preventing necessary changes. This gridlock can last for years, leaving citizens frustrated.
  3. The influence of those who control the judiciary can overshadow the elected legislative body. This raises concerns about who really has the power in a democracy.

Revolutions Always Fail

Theory Matters • 3 implied HN points • 22 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Political theory
  1. Revolutions rarely create truly new systems; they often reuse existing coercive institutions and end up as repressive as what they replaced.
  2. Revolutions demand unity but are driven by competing factions, and that internal conflict commonly leads to violence, terror, and the collapse into tyranny or chaos.
  3. Passionate ideas about identity, anti-imperialism, or spiritual politics can mobilize people, but the gap between revolutionary fantasy and everyday governance usually produces failure, while pluralistic liberal arrangements tend to be more stable.

The Gramsci Gap

Breaking Smart • 94 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Political theory
  1. The 'Gramsci Gap' talks about a time when old systems are fading and new ones are struggling to emerge. It's a confusing period filled with strange and troubling events.
  2. It connects ideas of power and control, showing how rulers and the rules they create influence society. Both individual actions and larger systems can produce negative effects.
  3. Understanding this gap helps us recognize how both personal decisions and structural issues can create problems, pointing to the need for change in how we govern and relate to one another.

How a German Philosopher Predicted the War for D.O.G.E.

From the New World • 118 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Carl Schmitt's ideas focus on the importance of political legitimacy and how decisions can bypass normal rules during emergencies. This shows how power can shift unexpectedly during crises.
  2. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated how government agencies can act without typical oversight, leading to questions about their legitimacy and effectiveness. It highlighted the tension between authority and accountability.
  3. Efforts to improve government efficiency often run into existing bureaucratic processes that hinder progress. New ideas, like the proposed Department of Government Efficiency, face challenges from established norms and resistance to change.

It's not easy from here

Gray Mirror • 112 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Focusing on the wrong targets can lead to wasted effort. It's important to identify and direct energy towards the right problems instead of getting distracted by less significant issues.
  2. Political systems can change, but restoring the past often ignores the unique challenges of today. Acknowledging how history shapes our current situation is key to moving forward.
  3. There's a need to rethink how power is used in government. Rather than trying to go back to what worked before, it might be better to find new solutions that fit our current realities.

My Talk at the European Parliament

John’s Substack • 10 implied HN points • 19 Nov 25
🌍 World Politics Political theory
  1. The speaker discussed the challenges Europe is facing in the future. They believe the situation looks quite worrying.
  2. The talk was held at the European Parliament, suggesting its importance in addressing European issues.
  3. A transcript and video of the presentation are available for those interested in more details.

Where are the Realists Defending Trump?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 95 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Great powers, especially nuclear ones, act to protect their interests. This means they are sensitive to threats near their borders.
  2. The idea of security and power is important in international relations, with all states seeking to ensure their safety, no matter their government type.
  3. Donald Trump is using language that aligns with realist views in foreign policy, particularly in how he frames issues related to Russia.

Civic Life Kinda Sucks

Unpopular Front • 101 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Civic engagement can feel disappointing, as many people want to help but find it hard to be heard in group settings. Good intentions sometimes don't lead to real community connection.
  2. People often feel that political clubs and organizations can be unwelcoming, making it hard for newcomers to share their ideas or feel valued. This can lead to disillusionment.
  3. Writing and expressing opinions online can sometimes be more rewarding than traditional civic involvement. Many find that they prefer this quick way to participate rather than struggling with local politics.

When Hatred and Fear Mask as Indignation

Philosophy bear • 114 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Political theory
  1. Indignation is feeling morally upset about someone doing something wrong, while contempt is viewing someone as less than human and not caring about their welfare. It's important to understand the difference between these feelings.
  2. People often hide their contempt under the guise of indignation, especially towards groups like children who may commit crimes. We should question this attitude and seek to unmask the true feelings behind it.
  3. Children's moral development is ongoing, and they shouldn't be held to the same standard of moral responsibility as adults. It's unjust to treat them as fully moral agents while denying them basic rights like voting.

Heaven is High and the Emperor is Far Away

Polymathic Being • 113 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Don't let fear from social media take over your life. There's plenty of good around you if you look for it.
  2. Remember that political news is often far removed from your daily reality. You have control over how much it affects you.
  3. Take action in your local community. Get involved and focus on what truly matters to you, instead of constantly worrying about the emperor.

CROSSPOST from 2007: HOISTED FROM THE ARCHIVES: George W. Bush et le Code Ezéchiel

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 99 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. George W. Bush mentioned biblical figures Gog and Magog while discussing the Middle East with Jacques Chirac. This shows how some leaders might connect their political actions with religious beliefs.
  2. The interpretations of biblical texts like Ezekiel can vary widely. Some scholars see historical events in these texts, while others look for modern connections.
  3. The United States' support for Israel can be influenced by religious views, unlike the more geopolitical perspective often taken in Europe.

Ehud Olmert on Gaza; reading After Virtue after bureaucracy; A Postscript

Unpopular Front • 42 implied HN points • 25 May 25
📖 Philosophy Political theory
  1. Ehud Olmert, a former Israeli Prime Minister, openly condemns the actions in Gaza as war crimes, highlighting the severity of the situation.
  2. Philosopher Alasdair MacIntyre argues that modern moral discourse is fragmented and often reduced to mere emotional manipulation, lacking real substance.
  3. MacIntyre believes that true moral judgments are factual and based on social roles, suggesting we need to revive older traditions to find genuine meaning in our practices.

Establishment Politicos Keep Pretending They're Anti-Establishment.

JoeWrote • 88 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Many politicians and media figures like to act like they're underdogs, even when they're part of the political establishment. They do this to gain sympathy and support from the public.
  2. The idea of being an outsider is especially common among Republicans, who often claim to fight against the establishment despite having a lot of power. It's like the New England Patriots pretending to be underdogs while winning championships.
  3. This behavior is not just a political strategy; it affects how people see themselves and their beliefs. By framing their views as forbidden or unique, they distract from the real issues that need fixing in society.

On The Public/Private Polarity

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 11 Mar 23
📖 Philosophy Political theory
  1. Kant's idea flips the normal understanding of public and private. He suggests that people in roles with obligations act 'private,' while those writing freely are 'public.'
  2. Today, many feel trapped by their jobs and use social media to express themselves more freely. This creates a divide between those who feel constrained and those who can speak openly.
  3. Power can actually limit freedom, not expand it. Many chase power thinking it will bring them freedom, but it often just adds layers of constraint.

Are Power and Freedom Opposites?

Castalia • 139 implied HN points • 13 Jan 23
📖 Philosophy Political theory
  1. Power and freedom can feel like opposite forces. Gaining power often comes with more responsibilities, which can limit personal freedom.
  2. Many people are drawn to power thinking it will give them more freedom, but once they have power, they may find themselves feeling trapped by it.
  3. Truly being free might mean understanding power, achieving it, and then being able to let it go or not being overly attached to it.

Labour and the challenge of coherence

Comment is Freed • 81 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The Labour party is struggling to make progress in government, facing frustrations from both members and leadership. This has been made tougher by external challenges like fiscal issues and global tensions.
  2. Keir Starmer, the leader, prefers practical decision-making over deep philosophical discussions, but this can hinder a clear direction for governance. Without guiding principles, it's hard for his team to make confident decisions.
  3. There's a lot of activity within the government, but it lacks a coherent strategy. Different departments may have conflicting agendas, which can lead to confusion and ineffective use of resources.

Briefly Noted

Unpopular Front • 35 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Trump's idea of rebuilding America mixes old protectionist ideas with modern technology. This mix shows a deep desire to return to a past way of doing things while ignoring the advancements of the Enlightenment.
  2. Trump represents both wealth and the chaos of financial failure. His life story reflects a bigger story about America, blending success with economic downturns.
  3. To understand Trump and his influence, it's important to look at his financial struggles and how they match up with the nation's challenges. His rise is tied to a deeper sense of despair in American politics.

August 9, 2025

Letters from an American • 24 implied HN points • 10 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The U.S. was founded on the idea of freedom of conscience, meaning that the government should not favor any religion. This protects everyone's rights and keeps leaders from becoming tyrants.
  2. The foundational documents of the U.S., like the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, emphasize equality and have been amended to recognize more rights over time.
  3. It's important to remember the people who fought for rights in America, especially when some leaders try to take those rights away. Their efforts remind us of what American values truly stand for.

Big Tech's Class War Politics

Unpopular Front • 88 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Silicon Valley has shifted political views due to crises in both the U.S. political system and its own beliefs, leading to new coalitions forming that differ from the past.
  2. The tech sector is experiencing a class conflict where some entrepreneurs are pushing for changes against traditional management and labor structures, inspired by authoritarian models.
  3. This new tech movement could attempt to gain majority support, but its harsh approach may limit its ability to create a long-lasting, stable social system.

Manifesto

Castalia • 199 implied HN points • 19 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Political beliefs are changing, and it's important to be open-minded about them. Instead of sticking to one party, think about issues individually and consider different viewpoints.
  2. Social media has changed how we engage in politics. It can create chaos in discussions, making it harder for leaders to communicate effectively.
  3. Many thinkers are feeling lost because the traditional liberal values are no longer being upheld. They want to revive respectful discourse and encourage diverse opinions in politics.

The education of a DOGE brownshirt; Class Struggle, Elite Theory, and "Socialisms of Fools"

Unpopular Front • 63 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The experience of political awakening can start from negative feelings about elite groups or government actions, often leading some individuals to adopt extreme ideologies. It's important to understand how these perspectives develop from personal experiences and societal influences.
  2. Antisemitism and other forms of racism often come from a structural viewpoint, portraying certain groups as controlling society for their benefit. This view isn't just about individual prejudice, but rather a deeper ideological belief that can be dangerous.
  3. The relationship between libertarian and fascist attacks on the liberal state showcases how these movements may share similar goals, focusing on dismantling perceived corruption while maintaining existing wealth and power structures.

A political manifesto for the first Post-Communist International

Heterodox STEM • 99 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. A manifesto proposes new ideas for creating a society without inequalities. It suggests that previous attempts to create equal societies didn't go far enough and need a clearer plan.
  2. The text emphasizes that traditional values and beliefs are being challenged and reshaped. It argues that modern ideas about rights and freedoms often contradict each other, creating confusion.
  3. Finally, it highlights the importance of intellectual influence in societal change. The manifesto believes that a well-organized group can push for revolutionary changes, even in societies that seem to resist them.

The Zohran Moment

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 30 implied HN points • 28 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. The concept of modern nation-states is built on exclusion and violence, not inclusion. This means that political identities have often been manipulated to create divisions among people.
  2. Colonialism has shaped identity in many societies, leading to deep resentments and conflicts. Examples like the Rwandan genocide show how false ethnic divisions can lead to horrific violence.
  3. The rise of extreme political views today mirrors past colonial and nationalist tendencies. Understanding this history is crucial if we want to avoid repeating the same mistakes.

Should we have Deliberative Democracy?

Erik Examines • 89 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Deliberative democracy is about having conversations among citizens to make better decisions, rather than just voting. It focuses on discussing issues deeply before deciding things.
  2. This model can be mixed with traditional democracy, where citizen assemblies could help inform lawmakers. It doesn't replace representatives but enhances how decisions are made.
  3. Using AI can help find common ground during discussions, making it easier for people to reach agreements on policies. It could guide groups to better solutions by analyzing opinions and suggesting compromises.

America First! Privatizing FEMA Will Kill Americans, But At Least the Hurricanes Will Have Patriotic Names.

JoeWrote • 68 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory
  1. Nationalism can trick people into thinking they have more in common with wealthy Americans than with workers from other countries. This can stop them from standing together for better working conditions.
  2. Privatizing FEMA could lead to worse disaster relief because profit motives might take priority over helping people. This means less support for those who need it during crises.
  3. Many working-class voters may not realize that they could suffer more from political decisions like privatization. They need to focus on class issues instead of being distracted by patriotic symbols.

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 Political theory
  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.