The hottest Politics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Lead pipes are dangerous? Make 'em mandatory

Experimental History • 7173 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture History Politics Literature Science Psychology Humor
  1. Lead pipes can poison people, and they have been used for thousands of years despite the dangers. People often realize this every few decades and push for laws to require lead pipes.
  2. Prominent figures like Ronald Reagan sought astrological advice from advisers like Nancy Reagan's astrologer, showing how beliefs in astrology influenced important decisions.
  3. There's a trend of creating similar movies at the same time, known as 'twin films,' where studios release films with similar themes or ideas around the same time, sometimes by coincidence or for profit.

Dear Pastors

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 3816 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Theology Church Politics Community Leadership
  1. Pastors should focus on their local congregations and their real needs rather than seeking attention on social media. The people in their communities need spiritual guidance more than viral posts.
  2. It's important for pastors to lead people toward Jesus instead of political idols. Encouraging love and prayer for neighbors and leaders can help foster unity rather than division in challenging times.
  3. While voting is a civic duty, true hope and redemption come from faith in Jesus, not political outcomes. The Kingdom of God is everlasting, and that's what should matter most to Christians.

A Sex Strike isn't Going to Work

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 7576 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Feminism Society Media History Politics Gender
  1. Cultural appropriation happens when one group takes aspects of another group's culture without understanding its significance. American women joining the South Korean 4B movement might be seen as doing this, as they are adopting a struggle that is not theirs.
  2. A collective sex strike faces many challenges. It requires everyone to agree and act together, which is hard since individuals might choose to break the strike and miss out on the potential benefits without facing consequences.
  3. Looking at history, past movements didn't always work out as planned. Striking for change isn't as simple as withholding something, especially in a democracy where individual freedoms and choices are valued.

Beware The Yard Sign Thieves!

Vicky Ward Investigates • 119 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Politics Activism Social Issues
  1. Yard sign theft is becoming a problem as election day approaches, especially in some communities. People are stealing signs for various political candidates, causing frustration for those trying to show their support.
  2. In a town where many liberal artists live, the focus is on the missing Harris/Walz signs, which keep getting stolen. This makes it harder for those wanting to display their political views.
  3. Replacing these stolen signs can be costly for residents, as they often have to buy new ones multiple times. The ongoing thefts are creating tension between different political views in the area.

What I'm Reading, Post-Election

Culture Study • 6104 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Reflection Social Issues Politics Identity
  1. Reading helps process complex feelings. It doesn't mean you agree, but it can spark important thoughts and emotions.
  2. Misogyny and economic issues are intertwined in politics. Many voters may prioritize financial gain over women's health and safety.
  3. The political landscape is tough and complex. People can engage with issues that matter to them without needing to fix everything at once.
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Can society be perfect?

In My Tribe • 486 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Ethics Epistemology Politics Society Tradition
  1. Perfectionists believe society can be made perfect by following what they think are the right ideas. They think mistakes can be corrected easily.
  2. Anti-perfectionists believe that trying to perfect society often fails because of human flaws. They think it's okay for people to make mistakes and learn from them.
  3. Conservatives value traditions and experiences as important knowledge, while perfectionists sometimes discard traditions when they think they've found something better.

The Lamplighter Problem

Jeff Giesea • 718 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🕹 Technology AI Automation Labor Economy Politics
  1. AI is likely to displace a huge number of jobs, similar to how lamplighters lost their roles when electric lights came in. We need to prepare for these changes now to help people transition to new work.
  2. The Lamplighter Problem shows us that job loss due to automation is not just an economic issue but also a political and social one. If we don’t address it, it could lead to bigger problems in society.
  3. There are different opinions on how to handle the rise of AI. Some people think we should slow down and reconsider, while others want to speed up its development. We need to find a balanced approach that helps everyone.

The Messy Thicket of Change

Culture Study • 2436 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Religion Social justice Community Politics Race relations
  1. It's important to let everyday people create their own solutions for social change, instead of just following easy steps set by others. This helps them feel more connected and invested in the process.
  2. The journey towards racial justice is messy and often includes mistakes, but the willingness to work through those challenges together is crucial for real progress.
  3. Building a supportive community where everyone feels they belong encourages deeper conversations about tough topics like racism, making it easier for people to come together and act for change.

Thanks

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 42 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Thanksgiving Family Community Politics Gratitude
  1. Thanksgiving is a time for appreciation and gratitude towards family and community, beyond just the food. It's important to cherish the connections we have with our loved ones.
  2. Politics and disagreements are common at family gatherings, but it’s crucial to prioritize family over those differences. Choosing to focus on family can lead to more meaningful connections.
  3. Life is fragile, and time with family is limited. Embrace the quirky moments and discussions, as they may be the things you miss the most in the future.

What people are getting wrong about bro comedy podcasts

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 499 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🎙 Podcasts Comedy Politics Media Culture Entertainment
  1. Not all comedians lean right. Many are just looking for attention and will say what they think audiences want to hear.
  2. Standup comedy is diverse, with many different styles and viewpoints. Watching it live shows a wider range than what you might see online.
  3. Comedians aren’t modern-day philosophers; they're entertainers. They crack jokes and often push boundaries, but it's all in good fun.

My "Perplexing" Response to Ta-Nehisi Coates's New Book

Glenn Loury • 2023 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Media Race Politics Identity
  1. It's okay to criticize someone's past views while still recognizing their current work as valuable. You can appreciate a good piece of writing even if you don't always agree with the author.
  2. Ta-Nehisi Coates expresses deep feelings about injustices he sees, which can be important in understanding his perspective. Understanding emotions in discussions about complex issues can lead to more meaningful conversations.
  3. Writing can be powerful, and even if you disagree with the message, you might admire the craft and skill of the writer. It's worth giving credit where it's due, regardless of personal beliefs.

What I've been reading to understand the election, a pure-escapist stupid slapstick comedy, and four new tracks I like

Read Max • 974 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Film Comedy Music Politics
  1. Reading is important for understanding current events, like the election. Articles and columns can provide valuable insights.
  2. Sometimes, it's good to escape and have fun. Watching a silly comedy can be a great way to lighten your mood.
  3. Discovering new music can bring joy. Listening to fresh tracks can be a fun experience and help you find new favorites.

Black Intellectuals in the Twenty-First Century

Glenn Loury • 337 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Social Issues History Politics Identity
  1. In the 1980s, many African Americans strongly opposed apartheid in South Africa. This shows a sense of unity against oppression, even if the situations were different.
  2. The conversation highlights how some issues today, like the treatment of Palestinians, can be more complicated than past issues like apartheid.
  3. Understanding historical context helps us see why certain causes gain widespread support while others struggle for the same level of recognition.

The Monday Media Diet with Dan Sinker

Why is this interesting? • 1025 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Media Art History Politics
  1. Consuming too much news can cause anxiety, especially with events like elections coming up. It's easy to fall into a cycle of constantly refreshing for updates, but it won't change the outcome.
  2. Enjoying different forms of media can provide a needed break from stress. Listening to entertaining podcasts or watching a funny show can help lighten the mood.
  3. Reading good books, especially by talented writers like Hanif Abdurraqib, can be very rewarding. Their well-crafted words offer a chance to reflect on important themes and enjoy powerful storytelling.

Luther and the Spark of the Reformation

Papyrus Rampant • 178 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
💾 History Religion Education Politics Europe
  1. Martin Luther posted his Ninety-Five Theses in 1517, which wasn't meant to start a movement but turned out to spark the Protestant Reformation.
  2. He challenged the sale of indulgences, emphasizing that faith in God, not money, is what saves people from sin.
  3. Luther's actions led to a push for education and Bible translation, helping more people understand their faith and read scripture in their own language.

Downward Is Heavenward

Kneeling Bus • 224 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art Internet Media Politics Social Dynamics Reality
  1. Putting down your phone and going outside is a way to escape from the overwhelming digital world, but even nature can have its own issues. We need to realize that our sense of reality is always changing and influenced by what we see online.
  2. The idea of escaping into filter bubbles has become irrelevant because now our entire experience is made up of different realities. We are so intertwined with digital life that leaving a social media platform feels like moving away in real life.
  3. People today are finding connection in shared interests, like movies or trending topics, despite the chaos online. This new culture may seem bland compared to the past but helps pull us together when real meaning feels scarce.

If You're An Authoritarian Peckerhead Who Keeps An Enemies List.....

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 244 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Politics Governance Elections Public Opinion Political Commentary
  1. If someone is keeping an enemies list, it's a sign of authoritarian behavior. That means they want to punish people for having different opinions.
  2. Being part of an enemies list shows you're standing up against un-American actions. It's important to be clear where you stand on these issues.
  3. Making fun of those in power, especially if they act unseriously, helps people see the absurdity of their actions. Humor can be a tool for resistance.

Episode 189 Pt I

Disaffected Newsletter • 499 implied HN points • 17 Sep 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Culture Politics Health Entertainment
  1. There were technical issues that caused half an hour of the show to be lost, including important debate analysis. The hosts plan to redo it and offer more content soon.
  2. Residents in Springfield, Ohio, are expressing concerns about a large influx of Haitian immigrants and how it affects their community.
  3. A guest discusses the issues of responsibility among gay men concerning health risks linked to promiscuity. The conversation highlights the need for awareness and personal accountability.

Odds and Ends #42: An Elizabeth Line extension, some mad planning law nonsense, and the world's most pointless letter

Odds and Ends of History • 402 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
📰 News Politics History Culture Environment Education
  1. There's a big extension happening for the Elizabeth Line, which is good news for public transport in the area.
  2. Some planning laws are causing headaches between government bodies, which shows how complicated regulations can be.
  3. A new bat tunnel that cost £100 million exists, and it raises questions about how resources are used in environmental projects.

genghis trump

bad cattitude • 366 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Politics Elections Governance Public Opinion Social Issues
  1. Pride and arrogance can lead to downfall, as shown by ancient Greek beliefs about nemesis. If people get too confident, they might face consequences.
  2. Many people see Trump as a force against an untrustworthy system. They believe he represents their frustration with the current state of politics.
  3. The political climate is shifting, and people are looking for change. There's a growing interest in whether new leadership can improve their situation.

Glory days

Disaffected Newsletter • 1998 implied HN points • 15 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Society History Politics Identity Memory
  1. Some older people are still stuck in the past, thinking their youth and ideas from the 1960s still represent today's reality.
  2. Many friends love to share nostalgic stories about their past activism, but they sometimes seem more about reliving glory than promoting understanding.
  3. People who change their political views often feel pushed away by their former friends, showing that kindness fades when faced with disagreement.

kitten corner: the great oreo mystery

bad cattitude • 179 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
😂 Humor Politics Mystery Social Commentary
  1. The story hints that a character, possibly Kamala, might have taken the cookies. It's a fun little mystery that piques curiosity.
  2. Kittens are playful and often involved in curious situations that can feel like real detective stories.
  3. The post combines light-hearted humor with a playful take on human politics, making it entertaining to read.

Why you can't bring a roast to a rally

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 427 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Comedy Politics Social Issues Performance Arts
  1. Comedy works best in the right context. A roast at a comedy club is different from jokes at a political rally. The audience needs to understand that it’s supposed to be funny.
  2. Intentions behind jokes matter, but so does the setting. If the environment is charged with negativity or hostility, jokes might not land well.
  3. Fame can be tricky in comedy. Just because someone is popular online doesn’t mean everyone knows them. This disconnect can change how people react to their humor.

Another four miles

Internal exile • 53 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media Politics Technology Society Communication
  1. Many people enjoy interactive media like podcasts and livestreams because they crave connection, even though the content can feel aimless. This type of media often emphasizes feelings over facts.
  2. Podcasts and social media can make it seem like people are part of a conversation, but the conversation is often repetitive and lacks real substance. This can make followers feel engaged without meaningful interaction.
  3. There's a contrast between the spontaneity of real human conversation and the predictable nature of AI interactions. While some might prefer the speed of AI, there's still a strong value placed on the unpredictability and warmth found in human conversations.

The One and the Many

The Fry Corner • 21522 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Theater Philosophy Psychology Politics Statistics
  1. Groups of people can behave in predictable ways, even if individuals within those groups act randomly. This means we can anticipate the behavior of a crowd better than that of a single person.
  2. Statistics play a big role in predicting risks and behaviors. For example, actuarial tables help insurance companies set rates based on the likelihood of certain events, regardless of the reasons behind those probabilities.
  3. There is often a disconnect between how we view groups of people versus individuals. While we might feel negatively about humanity as a whole, we tend to appreciate and trust the individuals we meet in our daily lives.

Doomscroll: Trevor Paglen

Joshua Citarella's Newsletter • 437 implied HN points • 02 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art Media Politics Technology Design
  1. Trevor Paglen discusses how art connects technology and politics, showing us what can often be hidden or ignored. His work helps us think about the important issues behind new tech.
  2. He talks about 'psyops capitalism', where media creates content based on user behavior, which can shape our views and experiences.
  3. Paglen compares early UFO stories to today's social media disinformation, highlighting how misinformation has always been a part of our society.

Northampton MP labels plan to move statues ‘cultural vandalism’

NN Journal • 298 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art History Politics Community Heritage
  1. Moving the statues is seen as cultural vandalism by MP Lucy Rigby. She believes they should stay in the town center where people can learn about the important figures they represent.
  2. The West Northamptonshire Council is exploring options for using the Guildhall, which has made the statue relocation a topic of discussion. They plan to consult the public before making any decisions.
  3. Local residents feel strongly that the statues belong in their current location. Many consider the historic Guildhall an important part of the town's identity and heritage.

Old Man Yells at Cloud

Disaffected Newsletter • 599 implied HN points • 01 Sep 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Politics Society Education Crime Health
  1. A new course is available for parents to help them understand and support their kids dealing with gender issues. This program is designed to help parents connect with their teens.
  2. There's a concern that crime and chaos are increasing in America, with reports of gangs taking over neighborhoods and alarming incidents happening daily.
  3. The discussion focuses on how society seems to honor youth while disregarding the wisdom of older generations, suggesting a shift in values that raises concerns.

The $25B Kroger-Albertsons Merger Is Going to Fail

BIG by Matt Stoller • 19710 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
💼 Business Antitrust Monopoly Merger Labor Politics
  1. The $25 billion Kroger-Albertsons merger is facing challenges as the Federal Trade Commission and nine states sue to block it due to potential negative impacts on consumer prices and wages.
  2. The case is significant because it involves a novel application of antitrust law, focusing on labor grounds and the impact on union bargaining terms.
  3. The merger's potential consequences, including higher prices and lower wages, have sparked political response from politicians and unions, indicating widespread concern and opposition.

On my bullshit tonight at 8 pm!

Disaffected Newsletter • 499 implied HN points • 04 Sep 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Culture Entertainment Discussion Politics
  1. A live conversation is happening tonight at 8 pm Eastern time. You can join in to hear some interesting discussions.
  2. It's on Rumble, so you'll need an account to participate in the live chat. Make sure to sign up beforehand!
  3. The event will focus on American politics and themes of authoritarianism. It could be a good chance to gain new insights on these topics.

Alice Evans on Acemoglu, et al

In My Tribe • 273 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Institutions Economics History Society Politics Beliefs
  1. Inclusive institutions are key for long-term economic success. This means that countries need both strong governments and engaged communities.
  2. Culture plays a big role in shaping institutions, and they're closely linked. This connection shows that neither controls the other; they influence each other.
  3. Censorship and ideological battles are significant issues today. Different groups try to control ideas and media, which can impact freedom and reform.

The Dumbest Cover Story Ever

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 16432 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Philosophy Politics
  1. The article criticizes New York Magazine's cover story, describing its support for children's access to sex-changing medical care as extreme and problematic.
  2. The author argues that the piece promotes a radical rejection of norms like the nuclear family and patriarchy, advocating for a collective reimagining of society.
  3. The concept of child liberation and absolute political agency for children is highlighted as a controversial and concerning aspect of the cover story.

Look what you made us do

read • 13994 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Music Politics Media Celebrities Opinion
  1. Taylor Swift's influence permeates global culture, politics, and media
  2. Writers on Substack provide original, insightful, and sometimes humorous analyses on Taylor Swift's impact
  3. Taylor Swift's actions, endorsements, and mere existence provoke strong reactions and shape narratives in various spheres

Doomscroll: Peter James Fowler

Joshua Citarella's Newsletter • 198 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Politics Culture Comedy Social Issues
  1. Young people can influence politics online, even starting at a very young age. It's surprising how a kid can run a political meme account with thousands of followers.
  2. The early internet had culture wars influenced by new atheism and the rise of conservative movements shaped by evangelical Christianity. These battles still affect us today.
  3. Our beliefs are influenced by our personal experiences and the political environment around us. It's important to recognize where our views come from.

Drop #18. Looking for Fireflies in Times of Fascism

REINCANTAMENTO Drops • 59 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy Art History Politics Society
  1. Re-enchantment is about reconnecting with the world beyond just science and technology. It emphasizes the importance of myths and spirituality in giving life meaning.
  2. Marginalized groups often hold valuable knowledge that was lost over time, such as practices from witches or diverse cultures. This loss is linked to historical violence and control by dominant powers.
  3. To find hope in difficult times, we should embrace creativity and imagination. By viewing the world differently, we can envision new possibilities and a re-enchanted future.