The hottest Psychology Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Eve Theory of Consciousness (v2)

Vectors of Mind • 825 implied HN points • 10 May 23
🔬 Science Human Evolution Psychology Genetics Cultural anthropology Neuroscience
  1. Women may have evolved recursion before men, based on prehistoric myths and societal structures.
  2. The downsides and challenges of recursion may have led to unique pathways for human development.
  3. Gendered differences in genetic, cognitive, and cultural factors could have influenced the evolution of self-awareness and recursion in humans.

Would Cats Make for Better Dogs?

Erik Examines • 89 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Pets Psychology Lifestyle Nature
  1. Cats and dogs have very different bodies and strengths. Dogs are built for endurance and can run longer distances, while cats have strong, flexible bodies that are better for short bursts of energy.
  2. Cats are independent and don't need as much exercise as dogs. This makes them more suited to relaxing with humans, while dogs expect more active playtime and walks.
  3. Giving a dog a cat's body wouldn't work well, and vice versa. Each animal is designed for different tasks and environments, which is why they act and serve us in unique ways.

Belief exhaustion (part one)

Brain Pizza • 728 implied HN points • 05 Mar 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Beliefs Ideologies Psychology Neuroscience Crisis
  1. Belief exhaustion is the emotional and psychological toll on individuals rigidly adhering to extreme beliefs, resulting in mental and emotional fatigue.
  2. Some people experience belief exhaustion and end up giving up their convictions due to the demanding nature of their beliefs.
  3. The collapse of political regimes sometimes shows the phenomenon of belief exhaustion, where individuals abandon their certainties leading to a rapid disintegration of shared reality.

the puer and puella aeternus

Midnight Musings • 59 implied HN points • 14 Jul 24
📖 Philosophy Self-awareness Archetypes Psychology Responsibility Personal Growth
  1. The puer and puella aeternus represent the idea of staying childlike and avoiding responsibility. This can lead to a life where people are stuck in a cycle of fun but don't achieve their true goals.
  2. People often chase happiness through pleasure without recognizing it might hold them back. Creating a reality based on fantasies can stop personal growth.
  3. To move forward, it's important to be aware of these childish tendencies and commit to meaningful work that requires responsibility and discipline. This helps create a more fulfilling life.

Of Course DEI Programming Should Be Seen As Psychological Interventions And Held To The Appropriate Standards

Singal-Minded • 1728 implied HN points • 24 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Diversity Psychology Standards Workplace Interventions
  1. Workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are facing challenges and skepticism.
  2. DEI interventions should be seen as psychological interventions and held to appropriate standards to ensure they do not cause harm.
  3. There is a lack of formal and rigorous evaluation of DEI programs, which hinders the ability to determine their effectiveness.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Adding Not Subtracting: What Leaving 90% of Our Things Behind Taught Me About Life

Perspectives • 5 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Life lessons Minimalism Family Moving Psychology
  1. Leaving behind a lot of things can make you feel freer and help you understand what you truly need. It's surprising how much stuff we hold onto that we don't really use.
  2. Moving quickly forces you to focus on essentials instead of getting distracted by all your accumulated things. Sometimes, the rush can make decisions clearer.
  3. Instead of thinking about what to get rid of, it can be helpful to think about what really adds value to your life. This shift in thinking can change how you view your belongings.

PREVIEW: The Three Archetypes of Internet Overexposure Syndrome

Default Wisdom • 77 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Internet Psychology Sociology Communication Media
  1. There are three main types of reactions people have to constant internet use: the Autist, the Schizo, and the Borderline. Each type represents a different way of dealing with online exposure.
  2. The Autist may focus on details and facts, while the Schizo might feel confused or paranoid about online information. The Borderline can experience intense emotions related to their online interactions.
  3. Understanding these archetypes can help us recognize our own behaviors and feelings about the internet, leading to better mental health and awareness.

Lost in a Sea of Pixels: Men, Pornography, and the Illusion of Control

Julie Bindel's podcasts and writing • 727 implied HN points • 16 May 23
🎭️ Culture Gender Studies Social Issues Psychology Feminism Human Relationships
  1. Pornography offers a quick escape from intense emotions and intimacy, providing an illusion of control for men.
  2. The feminist critique of pornography highlights its negative impacts on women in production and consumption.
  3. Habitual use of pornography can lead to a loss of control, creating a cycle that may require therapy and open communication to break.

"Unbundling" experiences

Civic Renaissance with Alexandra Hudson • 439 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Self-Improvement Society Psychology Ethics Personal Stories
  1. Our experiences and those of others may not always represent the whole picture, so it's important to avoid generalizations.
  2. Unbundling experiences can help us avoid negative assumptions about the world and others based on limited encounters.
  3. Choosing stories of exoneration over condemnation can empower us to see the dignity in others despite their mistakes.

The curse of conscientiousness

Optima & Outliers • 219 implied HN points • 04 Apr 24
💼 Business Career development Work Culture Self-help Psychology Professional Growth
  1. Being very organized and responsible can sometimes be a hindrance, especially if it makes you stick to a job that isn't right for you. It's important to know when to quit and move on.
  2. Young people should be open to exploring different jobs instead of sticking to one path just because it's familiar. Trying new roles can lead to greater happiness and success.
  3. It's better to think of your career like a scientist experiments: test a job for a while and see if it fits you. If not, don't feel bad about quitting and finding something that works better.

The Stories We Tell: Myth, Memory, and the Self

Mind & Mythos • 159 implied HN points • 04 May 24
🎭️ Culture Mythology Identity Psychology Narrative Self-Improvement
  1. The stories we tell about ourselves are important for understanding who we are. They help us make sense of our experiences and give our lives meaning.
  2. Everyone creates a personal narrative or myth that shapes their identity. This story involves past events, emotions, and lessons learned, influencing how we view ourselves and our future.
  3. Rewriting our personal story can improve our mental health. By changing how we interpret challenges and failures, we can craft a more positive narrative that enhances our sense of purpose.

Disaffected tonight at 8

Disaffected Newsletter • 639 implied HN points • 28 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Justice System Media Critique Psychology Crime Rates Public Opinion
  1. The findings from George Floyd's autopsy suggest he wasn't killed by police, citing high fentanyl levels instead of suffocation.
  2. There's a troubling trend where young people feel emboldened to commit violent acts without fear of consequences, leading to tragic outcomes.
  3. Many people shared personal experiences of growing up with a parent who has Borderline Personality Disorder, highlighting the challenges it brings.

What is this Substack even about?

Disaffected Newsletter • 1338 implied HN points • 18 Apr 23
🎙 Podcasts Media Discourse Psychology Personal Stories Mental health
  1. The podcast, Disaffected, explores how extreme personalities, like narcissism, affect public conversations today. It's about understanding these big feelings and behaviors that often go unnoticed.
  2. The host has personal experience with these issues, having grown up in a tough home environment. This background helps shape the discussions in the podcast.
  3. The show aims to provide insights and support for listeners who relate to the topics of emotional instability and personal struggles. There's a mix of articles and videos to help people dive deeper into the discussions.

Welcome to Disaffected

Disaffected Newsletter • 2997 implied HN points • 29 May 22
🎭️ Culture Psychology Family Politics Media Sociology
  1. The author experienced a difficult childhood with a mother who had personality disorders, leading to a realization about the impact of such behavior on family dynamics.
  2. There is a connection between personal experiences of emotional manipulation and the larger cultural and political climate today, suggesting many leaders exhibit similar traits to those seen in dysfunctional families.
  3. Understanding these personality disorders can help us recognize and address the emotional instability present in society, which is crucial for making positive changes.

My Best Friend at Harvard

Opaque Hourglass • 339 implied HN points • 28 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Friendship Psychology Education
  1. Willie created 'The Egypt Test' to analyze personalities based on initial responses like 'Pyramids' or 'The Nile'.
  2. The test results in categories like those partial to artifice and geometry, or favoring nature and the organic.
  3. The narrator was unique as they couldn't choose between 'Pyramids' or 'The Nile', leading Willie to acknowledge their ability to see beyond dualities.

The only outcome

Disaffected Newsletter • 1059 implied HN points • 24 May 23
🎭️ Culture Society History Philosophy Psychology Politics
  1. The current state of society in the West was bound to happen due to cultural paths taken over the last 70 years. We can't ignore that we are responsible for our situation today.
  2. There is a deep-rooted narcissism among people who lack understanding of true freedom and history, which has been shaped by a controlling government.
  3. For real change to occur, society might need to confront some painful truths and experiences, possibly through a crisis, so that people can take responsibility for their lives.

Pulling back the curtain to show the set

Disaffected Newsletter • 1278 implied HN points • 23 Mar 23
🎙 Podcasts Media Production Entertainment Psychology Personal Development Storytelling
  1. The show is presented like an old-fashioned talk show, not just a casual podcast. The creator values a polished production and enjoys looking put together while performing.
  2. There's honesty behind the performance; the creator shares personal struggles and insecurities. They believe it's important to show that even those who entertain can have vulnerabilities.
  3. The aim is to connect with others who have faced similar challenges from childhood. The show encourages a sense of recognition and reminds viewers that it's okay to have flaws but still strive to entertain and engage.

Links to Consider, 10/15/2024

In My Tribe • 288 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Epistemology Ethics Free speech Psychology Society
  1. Personality tests like the Big Five or Myers-Briggs might not be very good at predicting important life outcomes. Their accuracy isn't much better than just guessing.
  2. Free speech has changed over time, moving from a focus on persuading others to simply expressing one's own beliefs. This represents a shift in how we communicate and engage with each other.
  3. Modern societies often value citizenship over family ties, which affects people's views on having children. Many may feel pressured to prioritize social status over family-building.

Herding in Queues: Why we Can’t resist Long Lines for Bagels

Gad’s Newsletter • 32 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🍲 Food & Drink Consumer behavior Psychology Economics Marketing
  1. People often wait in long lines for things like bagels because they believe that if a lot of others are waiting, then the product must be really good. This is called social proof.
  2. Even though waiting can be frustrating, many customers think the experience is worth it. They might feel like they're part of something special when they join a long line.
  3. Humans tend to mimic what others want rather than deciding for themselves. This means our desires can be influenced by seeing others enjoy something, like delicious bagels, leading us to wait in line too.

Captain Obvious: a personal essay

Design Lobster • 579 implied HN points • 21 Aug 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Writing Design Creativity Advertising Psychology
  1. Obviousness in writing can be seen negatively for lacking depth but celebrated in design for clarity and ease of use.
  2. Good writing avoids clichés and offers fresh perspectives, while good design balances between obviousness and experience for effective outcomes.
  3. Finding the right level of obviousness in design is crucial based on the project's focus on creating an experience or an outcome.

Can you feel it?

Disaffected Newsletter • 1199 implied HN points • 24 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Mental health Social Issues Personal narratives Community Psychology
  1. Many people feel like something big is about to happen. It's a shared feeling among those who come from troubled family backgrounds.
  2. If you're feeling overwhelmed or crazy about society, you're not alone. A lot of others are feeling the same way.
  3. It's important to recognize that these feelings do not mean you're not sane. It's a normal response to the craziness happening around us.

Flex your color

Wednesday Wisdom • 66 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
💼 Business Leadership Management Personal Development Team Dynamics Psychology
  1. Understanding different personality types can help improve teamwork. People have different working styles, and recognizing these can enhance collaboration.
  2. The True Colors personality model categorizes people into four colors based on their traits. Each color represents different strengths and weaknesses, which can help individuals understand themselves and others better.
  3. Being aware of your default behavior allows you to adapt to different situations. Flexing your personality traits based on the needs of the moment can lead to better leadership and decision-making.

From the Fossil Record: The Adaptive Role of Emotions

Living Fossils • 5 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🔬 Science Emotions Psychology Evolution Behavior Research
  1. Emotions are complex systems in humans with different parts like how we feel, how our body reacts, and what we do. For example, feeling angry when someone cuts you off in traffic can lead to raising your blood pressure and even giving them a rude gesture.
  2. There is some disagreement on whether any emotions are the same for all people. However, everyone agrees that we all have emotions that affect how we react to situations.
  3. Understanding our emotions can help us navigate day-to-day challenges better. They play a big role in our behavior and how we connect with others.

The first mistake when you wake up to Cluster B

Disaffected Newsletter • 1119 implied HN points • 21 Mar 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Personal Development Psychology Family Dynamics Emotional Well-being
  1. It can be hard to recognize when someone has a Cluster B personality disorder. Often, the person themselves doesn't see anything wrong and believes others are the problem.
  2. When dealing with someone who has a Cluster B disorder, being honest about your feelings may backfire. They are unlikely to accept criticism and could react negatively.
  3. Setting firm boundaries is important when you're dealing with difficult relationships. Sometimes, taking strong action is necessary to protect your own well-being.

July Readings

Brain Pizza • 1191 implied HN points • 11 Jul 23
🔬 Science Neuroscience Psychology Research
  1. The post discusses various July readings on topics like anger, self-promotion, sleep, loneliness, and more.
  2. The author, Shane O'Mara, is a neuroscientist, psychologist, and writer who provides regular content on Brain Pizza.
  3. Readers can sign up for a 7-day free trial to access more content from Shane O'Mara.

A war on Stuff

The Uncertainty Mindset (soon to become tbd) • 319 implied HN points • 28 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Minimalism Consumerism Psychology Aging Design
  1. Stuff can pile up because we think it might be useful later, but most of it just makes life messy and stressful. It's easy to lose track of things when we have too much stored away.
  2. Things are cheap and easy to buy nowadays, leading to lots of excess stuff that often isn’t worth keeping. This leads to clutter that can cause problems if it gets out of hand.
  3. To manage stuff better, we need to be proactive about it. This means designing our spaces and habits to prevent clutter from building up in the first place.

Against Diner–Grilled Cheese Theories Of Donald Trump’s Popularity (Or Anything Else)

Singal-Minded • 507 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Psychology Donald Trump Voters American culture
  1. Restaurants often make food taste better by using more fat which is not always healthy, a useful rule of thumb
  2. Psychological theories don't always give new insights into complex questions like explaining Donald Trump's popularity
  3. Be cautious about relying too heavily on psychology to explain multifaceted societal events