The hottest Progressivism Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics

Curator

Castalia • 359 implied HN points • 07 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. Ibram X. Kendi's antiracism center faced serious management issues and the fall of his reputation raises questions about the integrity of institutions that supported him. Some people feel a sense of schadenfreude, while others see it as a sign that these institutions failed to critically assess what they were promoting.
  2. Critics argue that a central problem is the way ideas about racism and anti-racism have been oversimplified and sensationalized, leading to a pessimistic view of progress in America. This shift has made discussing genuine progress much harder, as some now view racism as an inescapable reality.
  3. The conversation about marriage's role in happiness sparks tension, as some view the emphasis on marriage as a right-wing distraction. However, data suggests that married people report higher satisfaction, indicating that the benefits of marriage should not be easily dismissed in debates about family and societal values.

The End of Cheap Progressive Signalling

The Ruffian • 368 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. Companies are reassessing their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) due to increased pushback and potential risks. They're realizing that showing support can now have real consequences.
  2. The era of easy progressive signaling is over, forcing companies to reconsider their policies and be more genuine about their commitment to social causes. Some might have to rethink their actions rather than just following trends.
  3. The left needs to evaluate if some of its agenda was based on easy symbols rather than real substance. This shift might help them connect more with everyday people who felt excluded from those discussions.

being honest about dishonesty

bad cattitude • 203 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. Dishonesty in academia has become a major issue, especially in progressive studies. Many researchers manipulate data to fit their narratives rather than focusing on truthful outcomes.
  2. There is a conflict between facts and the narratives some groups promote. This often leads to the suppression of real data to support specific ideologies or agendas.
  3. It’s important to question the integrity of studies that align closely with political beliefs. If researchers prioritize their ideologies over honest research, it can damage the credibility of science.

What It Took To Win

Unpopular Front • 164 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. Politics can really surprise us, like when unexpected groups team up to support a candidate. We often think we know what voters want, but sometimes they just want change.
  2. Successful campaigns can connect with people across different backgrounds, showing that new leaders can inspire people who feel left out by traditional parties.
  3. The way politicians engage with voters is crucial. Meeting people in real life and using modern tools can create a strong connection, making it easier to rally support.

The Missing Myths

Bet On It • 467 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. The book focuses on simple, straightforward myths that can be easily debated and debunked. This is helpful for understanding complex issues more clearly.
  2. Some myths about gender and racial pay gaps are stressed as often misunderstood. Actual productivity plays a big role in these discussions.
  3. The author believes there are even more myths about discrimination and intelligence that need addressing. Questions of race and IQ are examples where more facts could clarify misunderstandings.
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When Sterilization Was Dogma: Why the Eugenics Movement is Relevant Today

Bastiat's Window • 275 implied HN points • 06 Jun 23
💾 History Progressivism
  1. More than 70,000 Americans were victimized by America's eugenics movement, which peaked in the 1920s but lingered into the 2010s.
  2. Eugenics movement was supported by powerful people, based on the idea of improving the human species.
  3. Guard against destructive groupthink by fostering skepticism and questioning everything, to prevent falling prey to dangerous ideologies.

Subversive as All Hell

Symposium • 235 implied HN points • 14 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. Rose Wilder Lane stood for self-reliance and freedom, resisting government control and embracing individualism.
  2. Critiques of progressivism and the New Deal focused on the rejection of individualism and the rise of paternalistic authority.
  3. Lane, Paterson, and Rand advocated for individualism in the face of societal conformity, influencing the modern libertarian movement.

Cuomo is the candidate of NIMBYs and developers. What gives?

Urben Field Notes • 135 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. In New York City's mayoral race, the candidates are showing strange alliances, with some supporting both NIMBY homeowners and developers. This shows how housing issues don't fit neatly into political boxes.
  2. Cuomo has gained support from both sides by promising to protect certain neighborhoods while also getting backing from big developers. This reflects the ongoing struggle in housing politics that often benefits established interests over new ideas.
  3. Many candidates are pushing for more balanced housing policies that would allow development across a wider range of neighborhoods. However, real change will require serious planning and effort to create affordable housing options.

A Better Model of Political Categories

The Upheaval • 630 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. Consider the political landscape beyond just Left vs. Right and explore other categories like Right-Wing Progressives for a more comprehensive understanding.
  2. Challenge traditional frameworks like the four-quadrant political compass and explore models that acknowledge the nuances and complexities of political ideologies.
  3. Think about political personality types using multiple axes/spectrums to represent the diverse nature of political beliefs, moving away from simple, misleading charts.

The Zohran Mamdani Machine

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 13 implied HN points • 16 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. Huey Long shows how a charismatic, mid-30s populist can overthrow entrenched elites and quickly deliver massive public works, schools, hospitals, and programs for the poor. He combined mass popularity with savvy use of media, patronage, and state power to get things done.
  2. Long’s record mixes real material gains with strongman tactics — intimidation, control of the press, patronage, and alleged fraud — which is why historians warn about demagoguery even as they acknowledge his achievements.
  3. Zohran Mamdani arrives with a rare mass base and has tried a coalition-building, accommodationist approach with elites, but to realize big social-democratic reforms he may eventually need to wield both carrots and sticks while operating within the limits of mayoral and state power.

The Mystics of Progress

Trantor Publishing • 119 implied HN points • 09 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Progressivism
  1. Progressive ideologies in the modern world are intertwined with religious and mythical elements to create a more engaging narrative.
  2. Science fiction often incorporates concepts like evolution, destiny, and indistinct higher beings to provide meaning and purpose in a world that can seem bleak and indifferent.
  3. Stories reflect the beliefs and aspirations of society, offering insights into the fears, hopes, and dreams of a culture.

Why Do Progressives Like Islam?

Fake Noûs • 395 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Progressivism
  1. Progressives support Muslims as part of their focus on oppressed groups like women, blacks, and the poor.
  2. The definition of oppressed groups for progressives has expanded over the years to include Muslims as important.
  3. Leftists have a foundation in advocating for those who are marginalized and have continued this trend with Muslims.

The West Must Die

The Abbey of Misrule • 534 implied HN points • 31 May 23
🎭️ Culture Progressivism
  1. The essay discusses the limitations and challenges of writing and how it can shape our understanding.
  2. It delves into the concept of 'the West' and the cultural conflicts surrounding it.
  3. Finally, it raises the idea of letting go of the current concept of 'the West' to make way for something new and better.

Kamala Harris and the Rise of Progressive Nothing Politics

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 146 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  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.

Why are the Celtic nations so progressive?

The Path Not Taken • 418 implied HN points • 06 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics Progressivism
  1. Celtic nations have progressive governments despite mixed voter opinions, reflecting divisions between elites and voters.
  2. Small countries like Celtic nations are at the forefront of progressive cultural policies due to their vulnerability to policy capture and underdeveloped civil societies.
  3. In Celtic nations like Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, internal conditions, external pressures, and the profile of devolved governments contribute to the encouragement of progressivism.

Club a Koala to Death and Save the Planet!

Anxiety Addiction & Ascension • 59 implied HN points • 07 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. The modern 'left' has shifted away from traditional left-wing values like workers' rights, social welfare, and conservation, embracing contradictory and exaggerated positions.
  2. The proposed wind turbine development in Queensland highlights a radical departure from traditional conservationism, calling for the eradication of koala habitat and using inhumane methods like a 'sharp blow with a hammer to the skull' for euthanizing koalas.
  3. The author argues that the current progressive ideology is not representative of traditional leftism but is a cult-like adherence to globalist doctrine, emphasizing the need to stop referring to them as 'the left.'

Civic Life Kinda Sucks

Unpopular Front • 101 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  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.

American Nationalism, Teddy-Roosevelt Style!

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 215 implied HN points • 24 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. Teddy Roosevelt aimed to emphasize the importance of American heritage and the impact of the Pilgrims and Puritans on the nation.
  2. He advocated for building on the positive qualities of the past while recognizing the advancements made since then.
  3. Roosevelt promoted fighting against plutocracy and enforcing fair treatment in wealth accumulation, favoring a balance of individual initiative and collective responsibility.

How Zohran Scrambles the Right

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 25 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. Zohran Mamdani is shaking things up in politics, making some conservatives uneasy. He brings a cool vibe that challenges the traditional image of progressive politicians.
  2. Many younger people used to see progressives as less cool, but Mamdani's style and confidence have changed that perception. He stands out as a fresh face, akin to Barack Obama.
  3. The New Right is struggling to define Mamdani, resorting to old criticisms that don't fit him well. Instead of being just another millennial politician, he feels different and more relatable.

A response to Michael Huemer on why progressives like Islam

The Good blog • 39 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. Many progressives oppose Islamophobia because they see it as a form of prejudice against outsiders in society. They believe it's important for all groups, including Muslims, to be treated fairly and equally.
  2. Critics might argue against certain religious practices, but the goal should be to allow diverse beliefs without discrimination. The focus should be on ensuring everyone can participate in society without facing exclusion based on their religion.
  3. Religious views can be strongly held and difficult to change, much like race or sexuality. In a liberal society, people should be allowed to hold their beliefs, as long as they respect the rules of public life.

Progressivism And The Murder Of A Health Insurance CEO

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 36 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. Some online progressives showed disturbing joy over the murder of a health insurance CEO, believing it was a strike against the wealthy and a reflection of class struggles.
  2. The US healthcare system is highly regulated and has been for over a century, contrary to the belief that it's completely unregulated and solely driven by greedy CEOs.
  3. Government actions, especially those pushed by progressives over the years, have heavily influenced the healthcare market and led to rising costs and inefficiencies, causing many Americans to lack access to affordable care.

Fools Rush In

KERFUFFLE • 39 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. California's politics appear confusing and chaotic. This confusion often results in ineffective policies and governance.
  2. The problems in California's political system have historical roots that trace back to England. Understanding this history is important to grasp the current challenges.
  3. The author has compiled various observations and insights about California's political issues into one detailed essay for better understanding.

Dead Media Stumbles again

Who is Robert Malone • 22 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. MSNBC has fired Joy Reid and is replacing her show with a new team, but they still have a progressive focus. This might not help with their low viewer ratings.
  2. Alternative media faces challenges getting advertisers because they are seen as risky. Major companies may avoid advertising on platforms that host voices considered controversial.
  3. The U.S. government is looking to change rules to promote fair competition in media and support free speech. This is meant to lessen the influence of big media organizations.

Bluesky is the Last Thing America Needs

I Might Be Wrong • 14 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. Bluesky, a social media platform, is gaining users from Twitter, especially among left-leaning people. But some think it isn't a good alternative for healthy political discussion.
  2. The platform is criticized for being overwhelming with progressive views, comparing it to being on a wild drug trip. This suggests that it might not be beneficial to political discourse.
  3. The future of social media is uncertain, especially for Twitter, as people keep searching for better platforms. However, Bluesky might not be the answer many are looking for.

What Makes Something Progressive?

Gideon's Substack • 31 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Progressivism
  1. The term 'progressive' is often misunderstood and used as a catch-all for right-thinking attitudes about social causes, but the determination of these attitudes is crucial.
  2. Progressivism is centered around history and the belief that it has a discernible direction, influencing one's stance on various issues based on which 'side' of history they are on.
  3. The idea that history has a definite direction and a global left is debated, with a call to question preconceived notions and the importance of understanding the complexity and nuance of world politics.

Progressives Declare San Francisco Unworthy of Progressivism

I Might Be Wrong • 7 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. Progressives in San Francisco faced a setback when voters passed non-progressive propositions, such as strengthening the police and teaching algebra in 8th grade.
  2. San Francisco Chronicle writers criticized the progressives for their inability to address important issues like crime, housing, and education effectively.
  3. The response to the city's changes showed a lack of adaptability from some progressives, focusing more on opposition than practical solutions.

Gemini Can Teach Liberals Why Nobody Likes Us

I Might Be Wrong • 7 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. Gemini, a flawed product, sheds light on annoying behaviors of liberals that may hinder the advancement of progressive causes
  2. The post suggests that some liberals may unknowingly come off as self-righteous and irritating in their activism
  3. Spending time with Gemini can provide insight into why certain individuals may dislike liberals and their approach to advocacy

The Rise of the Right-Wing Progressives

The Upheaval • 6 HN points • 15 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. The concept of Right-Wing Progressives challenges traditional political labels and emphasizes a focus on progress and innovation.
  2. Right-Wing Progressives value hierarchy and prioritize progress above all else, often advocating for state intervention for the sake of progress.
  3. The beliefs of Right-Wing Progressives are grounded in rationalism and consequentialism, leading to a philosophy that aims to maximize progress through technological advancement and societal transformation.

On Progress

muk’s Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 21 Sep 23
📖 Philosophy Progressivism
  1. The solution to a problem can lead to greater benefits beyond the initial issue.
  2. Progress can have unintended consequences that may require careful reflection.
  3. Morality centered around productivity can lead to a shallow understanding of true ethics.

Rage addicts: the new Left

Demodexio • 0 implied HN points • 08 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism
  1. Some individuals use humanitarian causes to hide their rage.
  2. Anger-driven individuals can drive away potential supporters of progressive causes.
  3. Progressive movements need people who are angry about injustices but can control their anger.