The hottest Public Discourse Substack posts right now

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

Matt Gurney: Do I really need to demand a consistent standard from you all AGAIN?!

The Line • 2790 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Ethics Media Gender Political criticism Public Discourse
  1. Consistent standards need to be demanded in various situations to ensure fairness and ethics.
  2. It's important to question the transition of media figures into politics and maintain public confidence in journalism.
  3. Criticism should be based on professionalism and not used as a shield against valid scrutiny or critique.

Modern taboos and social media

Disaffected Newsletter • 3716 implied HN points • 03 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Media influence Family Dynamics Morality Public Discourse
  1. Some people feel strongly that surrogacy is wrong because it separates children from their natural parents. They believe that the child's needs should come first in these situations.
  2. There are many theories about what causes homosexuality, but discussing these ideas can be difficult because of social pressures. Some people believe that past experiences or genetics might play a role.
  3. Social media often makes real conversations hard because people might react emotionally and try to score points rather than have genuine discussions. Some prefer platforms where they can share their thoughts without fear of negative backlash.

Sall Grover's coming to New Zealand! We have a great chat about that, and other stuff.

A B’Old Woman • 479 implied HN points • 01 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Women's Rights Discrimination Legal Cases MeToo Movement Public Discourse
  1. Sall Grover is facing a discrimination lawsuit for removing a person who identifies as a woman from her women-only app, which highlights tensions around women's rights.
  2. There has been a shift in how women respond to discussions about gender identity, moving from politeness to speaking more openly and honestly about their concerns.
  3. Sall Grover's upcoming visit to New Zealand is a chance for more discussions about these important issues, especially regarding women's spaces and rights.

The Weight of the Tower of Babel

Disaffected Newsletter • 1998 implied HN points • 29 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Discourse International relations Conflict analysis Media Critique Ethics
  1. Discussions about the conflict between Israel and Hamas often lead to intense and aggressive arguments. Many people feel afraid to ask honest questions due to backlash or harsh reactions.
  2. The actions and motives of both Hamas and Israel are highly controversial. Understanding the truth about their military actions and claims is very difficult.
  3. There is a sense that current societal discussions are unhealthy, as they often resemble a toxic relationship where honest conversation feels unsafe.
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Elite Human Capital in Open and Closed Cultures

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 755 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Ideology Culture Wars Public Discourse Media Studies
  1. People with high human capital often prefer reading and writing over watching videos or listening to podcasts. This preference comes from a higher intelligence and a desire for deeper understanding.
  2. Not all groups with high human capital are liberal; some can be conservative. However, these conservative groups may create closed cultures that do not accept different views.
  3. Currently, in American politics, there is a divide between open-minded thinkers with high human capital and those who are less open and informed. This division shapes political discussions and community attitudes.

Trying to intimidate journalists is wrong

Unreported Truths • 31 implied HN points • 23 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Journalism Government oversight Public Discourse Political violence
  1. Intimidating journalists is not okay. Everyone should be able to share their work without fear of government retaliation.
  2. Even if you disagree with a journalist's point of view, supporting their right to speak is important for free speech.
  3. The First Amendment is crucial for allowing different ideas and opinions to exist, no matter how uncomfortable they may be.

Jim Acosta's World Bends To Substack's Truth

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 49 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Journalism Public Discourse Free speech Political Commentary
  1. Jim Acosta has moved to Substack after leaving CNN, seeking a platform where he can express his views freely. It shows a shift in how journalists are approaching their work.
  2. Substack is seen as a space for diverse opinions and genuine conversations, contrary to the idea that it's just for conspiracy theories. This change reflects a growing interest in alternative media.
  3. There's a need to recognize different perspectives and the importance of free speech. Embracing all sides of a story can lead to a more balanced discussion.

Kill the Chicken to Scare the Monkey

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 928 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Identity politics Political strategy Cultural Issues Social movements Public Discourse
  1. Identity politics can be used to create fear and control within groups. This can lead to people feeling pressured to conform to certain beliefs.
  2. Groups often engage in public shaming or 'struggle sessions' to enforce conformity. This method makes individuals afraid to speak out or be different.
  3. Understanding these tactics can help individuals navigate social pressures better. Knowing how fear works in group dynamics can be empowering.

Amazon blocks online reviews of Angela Merkel's memoir after readers submit a raft of harsh political critique and one-star ratings

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 312 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Discourse Media influence Censorship
  1. Angela Merkel's memoir has received a mix of reviews, with many readers critiquing her lack of self-reflection. They feel she does not acknowledge her mistakes during her time as chancellor.
  2. Amazon has stopped accepting new reviews for the book after receiving a lot of negative feedback, showing that readers are not happy with its content.
  3. Mainstream media reviews are generally positive, focusing on Merkel's achievements, while ordinary readers have a more critical view of her legacy and writing style.

Does child abuse cause homosexuality?

Disaffected Newsletter • 759 implied HN points • 05 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Mental health Education Public Discourse Cultural Commentary
  1. The discussion explores the link between child abuse and homosexuality. It suggests that there might be connections worth investigating.
  2. Joseph Sciambra, who speaks from personal experience, highlights existing research on this topic. He emphasizes that there's literature supporting his views.
  3. The talk also touches on the behaviors seen in protests and violence at American colleges, linking those to psychological dynamics.

who is the media now?

bad cattitude • 239 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Journalism Public Discourse Political Commentary Social media
  1. Media is changing a lot because regular people can now share news and opinions easily. This means traditional journalists are losing their influence.
  2. Many people don't trust established media anymore. They feel the news isn’t impartial and is often funded by special interest groups.
  3. The conversation about news is more open now, with many voices contributing. This makes it easier to find truth faster than before.

Chronicling the fall

Disaffected Newsletter • 1338 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Media Analysis Cultural critique Public Discourse
  1. There is a sense of hopelessness and despair, as the world feels increasingly frightening and chaotic. Many people are struggling with their own sadness and depression while also being affected by the broader issues happening around them.
  2. The idea of being 'woke' and its widespread influence suggests that no community or belief system is untouched by this mentality. It's a call to recognize that these societal shifts are pervasive and can't be ignored.
  3. The urgency to push back against these negative trends is emphasized, warning that if we don't act, we might lose the safe spaces we once had. It's crucial to engage in discussions and take action to change the narrative.

Live Now — Come Ask me a Question

The Chris Hedges Report • 70 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Activism Current Events Public Discourse Media
  1. The Chris Hedges Report is a reader-supported publication that invites subscribers to ask questions during live sessions.
  2. It offers the chance for readers to engage directly and share their thoughts or concerns.
  3. Subscribers can choose to support the work through free or paid options, helping to keep the content coming.

The independent truth service

Gray Mirror • 76 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social media Fact-checking Public Discourse
  1. Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter need to create independent truth services. This would help them figure out what information is reliable and what isn't.
  2. Currently, our trusted sources of truth, like newspapers and universities, are becoming less reliable. We need better systems to ensure that the truth is accurately represented.
  3. Building a solid and powerful truth signal can change how we see and understand facts. If we create a strong, trustworthy source of information, it could help improve the way people perceive what's true.

Our New Pandemic: Moral Cowardice

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 359 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Leadership Political Ethics Public Discourse Authoritarianism
  1. Moral cowardice is widespread today, causing people to lie and betray their own beliefs. This issue affects many public figures who prioritize loyalty over truth.
  2. Alexei Navalny is presented as a true example of courage and moral strength. He stood up against corruption in Russia, even knowing it could lead to his death.
  3. The piece encourages individuals to reject lies and strive to do what is right, emphasizing that life is too short to remain silent and complacent.

Episode 172

Disaffected Newsletter • 459 implied HN points • 20 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Legislation Elections Public Discourse Social Issues
  1. There was a heated conflict in the House involving Jasmine Crockett, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Marjorie Taylor Greene, which was discussed in a lively manner. It's like a sports commentary on a political debate.
  2. A young Black Marine was arrested for planning a violent attack, while three white teens successfully sued their school for being expelled over wearing an acne mask, which the school wrongly labeled as 'blackface.'
  3. The episode also highlighted some bizarre news stories, including strange political antics and unusual celebrity features, pointing to the odd happenings in the current world.

Elon Musk May Have Just Revealed the Real Reason For His UK Sexual Violence Lies

Proof • 53 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Public Discourse Media influence Racism
  1. Elon Musk made false claims about the demographics behind sexual violence in the UK, attributing it to Pakistanis, which many view as racist.
  2. Official government and media sources indicate that much of the gang-related sexual violence in the UK involves predominantly white individuals.
  3. These misleading statements from Musk not only contribute to harmful stereotypes but also distract from the actual data and reality of the situation.

Social Learning Links, 2/13/2025

In My Tribe • 273 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ideologies Youth Politics Public Discourse Societal Trends
  1. At the World Economic Forum this year, many attendees showed a surprising rightward shift in their views, with a strong presence of pro-Trump sentiments among participants.
  2. A group of young conservative men hosts debate parties, reflecting their deep engagement with intellectual discussions, often in contrast to older conservative perspectives.
  3. Making actions easier or harder can shape behaviors; if antisocial behavior is easy, it often increases, so we need to think carefully about the barriers we create.

Doctors migrating to bluesky is like Harris declining to speak with Joe Rogan

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 219 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Dynamics Political Ideology Public Discourse Media influence Social media
  1. Some doctors are leaving social media platforms like X for newer sites like Bluesky, especially after the recent elections. This change seems more emotional than principled since they didn't leave when their views were challenged earlier.
  2. Kamala Harris declined to speak with Joe Rogan because she was worried about upsetting her progressive supporters. This shows a reluctance to engage with differing opinions.
  3. People with far left views often avoid conversations with those they disagree with, which can harm communication and understanding. This avoidance might damage academic and public discourse over time.

The week of the NZ Midwifery petition, the Aussie court case Tickle v Giggle, and the UK Cass Review.

A B’Old Woman • 519 implied HN points • 14 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Legal Cases Health Policy Social movements Public Discourse
  1. A new petition in New Zealand is pushing for an investigation into midwifery practices, signaling a shift in how politicians view discussions on gender issues.
  2. An Australian court case is determining if someone who identifies as a woman should be allowed access to a women-only app, raising important questions about gender identity rights.
  3. The UK Cass Review found that puberty blockers were being used too liberally, sparking a call for more careful discussions about their use and the impact of gender ideology in healthcare.

Elon Musk Aims to Start a Race War in the United Kingdom. Is the United States His Next Target?

Proof • 45 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Discourse Media influence Social Issues Activism
  1. Elon Musk is seen as a global threat, which could lead to violence. Many are worried about his influence over society.
  2. There are concerns about what Musk's potential actions might mean for race relations in the UK and possibly in the US too.
  3. The urgency of the message about Musk's impact isn't being acknowledged by many, putting people at risk.

"X" Has Become a Hate Machine

Unpopular Front • 106 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social media Hate Speech Political Commentary Censorship Public Discourse
  1. The platform 'X' has shifted to allowing more hate-filled content, where racist and misogynistic posts are becoming common. This reflects a change in how moderation practices are handled.
  2. People are noticing an increase in harmful content in their feeds, suggesting that the platform's algorithm is promoting these negative messages as normal. This could influence users' attitudes and behaviors.
  3. There's frustration with the idea that social media, especially 'X', is being used to push a specific political agenda. Some users feel trapped between platforms that either promote hate or are overly liberal.

Notes From the Periphery on the Recent Election in the Empire

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 186 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Political culture Media influence Public Discourse
  1. The writer is overwhelmed by the amount of political news and feels the need to express their thoughts to feel better. It's like trying to clear a cluttered mind.
  2. They think the long U.S. election cycle is unhealthy and wish it were shorter, similar to elections in other countries. This way, people could avoid the stress that comes with such extended campaigning.
  3. Despite their reluctance to write about politics, they feel it’s necessary for their mental well-being, which shows how important it is for people to talk about things that bother them.

Democracy Dies In...Daylight?

Castalia • 379 implied HN points • 13 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Infrastructure Inequality Government Trust Public Discourse Political corruption
  1. The American infrastructure is falling apart and needs serious repairs. It's frustrating that other countries can build modern systems while the U.S. struggles.
  2. Trust in the government has been damaged, especially due to the recent political climate. This affects how people view leadership and policy.
  3. Inequality is rising in the U.S. despite the idea that anyone can achieve success. There’s a need for change to address wealth gaps and improve people's lives.

Why is it so easy to hate women?

Men Yell at Me • 315 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Gender Issues Media Criticism Societal norms Public Discourse Feminism
  1. People often jump at the chance to criticize women in the public eye, sometimes without understanding the full story. This shows a pattern where women are easily targeted and attacked.
  2. In the case of Blake Lively, many turned against her based on manipulated narratives that distorted her character. This highlights how quickly public opinion can sway against women.
  3. Not all women have the same resources to defend themselves against these attacks, which makes it harder for some to fight back when they are wrongly criticized.

Dingus of the week: Bret Baier

Men Yell at Me • 558 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Critique Political Commentary Gender Issues Public Discourse Current Events
  1. Bret Baier is criticized for his interview style, which some see as unbalanced and focused on complaints rather than real issues. He often interrupts and uses tactics that undermine the interviewee's credibility.
  2. Harrison Butker faced backlash for comments suggesting women's primary role should be as wives and mothers. His views are viewed as outdated and patronizing, reducing women's roles to traditional expectations.
  3. There are positive initiatives happening, like programs that help formerly incarcerated individuals find jobs in the solar industry, showcasing efforts to support marginalized communities.

'The Most Disgraceful Campaign in American History'

Nonzero Newsletter • 225 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Campaigns Media influence Public Discourse
  1. The time machine feature looks back at past conversations to provide insight into American culture and politics. It's a fun way to connect the past with today's issues.
  2. The discussion highlights how ideas of what is 'disgraceful' in politics have changed over time. What was seen as bad behavior in the past might not seem as shocking now.
  3. McCain's 2008 campaign faced backlash for misleading ads, showing how important honesty is in politics. The criticism he faced then is part of why we expect more transparency from politicians today.

Children and Social Media Links

In My Tribe • 227 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Youth Mental Health Legislation Public Discourse Crisis response
  1. People worry that social media harms kids, just like past generations worried about things like comic books and movies. Over time, these fears might seem outdated or exaggerated.
  2. Studies show that teen depression increased significantly after the rise of smartphones and social media. This suggests that these platforms might have a big impact on mental health.
  3. Laws to verify ages online aim to protect kids, but they can also limit freedom and privacy for everyone. It's a tricky balance between keeping children safe and respecting individual rights.

Open Thread #33

Fisted by Foucault • 99 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Cultural Studies Global Issues Public Discourse Foreign Policy
  1. There is a discussion about whether cultural conflicts are becoming a global issue. People are debating if what happens in one country affects others.
  2. The panel will explore different paths that the USA might take in its foreign policy, including being more isolationist or more transactional. This shows how foreign relations can vary widely.
  3. The author is excited to connect with readers who will attend the event. It's a chance for meaningful conversations and sharing ideas.

Does Opinion Have A Point?

Castalia • 439 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Trends Public Discourse Political Commentary
  1. Opinions in media are becoming more common, replacing traditional news reporting. This shift has made journalism feel more like a noisy argument rather than a calm exchange of facts.
  2. There are different ways to view opinion writing: as a policy statement, a persuasive tool, or a personal expression. Each approach serves its own purpose and can impact how people think.
  3. It's okay for opinions to be more casual and conversational. They don't always have to aim for a specific conclusion or action, allowing for a more relaxed way of sharing ideas.

First draft of a maxim

Disaffected Newsletter • 939 implied HN points • 20 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Identity politics Cultural critique Philosophy Public Discourse
  1. It's important to clarify definitions before discussing disagreements. Often, people think they're disagreeing when they are just using different meanings for the same words.
  2. The author challenges the common views on 'isms' like homophobia and racism. They argue that not all criticisms labeled as these are actually rooted in hate or irrational fear.
  3. Many claims of 'ism' are seen as tools to silence opposing viewpoints, rather than genuine expressions of prejudice. The author believes these claims are often untrue or exaggerated.

Chris Hedges Livestream Q&A Tonight on the Future of The Middle East, 4:00pm PT / 7:00pm ET

The Chris Hedges Report • 47 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East International relations Conflict resolution Media Studies Public Discourse
  1. Chris Hedges will host a live Q&A about the future of the Middle East. It happens at 4:00pm PT / 7:00pm ET.
  2. People can ask questions during the livestream, but you need to be a paid subscriber to participate.
  3. Make sure your questions are short and direct so they can be easily read during the show.

Can a Graphic Novel Change Housing Policy?

Bet On It • 80 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Graphic novels Housing policy Media influence Literature Public Discourse
  1. Graphic novels can influence important topics like housing policy. They make complex ideas easier to understand with visuals.
  2. Lower housing costs often get overlooked because people focus on less important concerns. It's important to address what truly matters.
  3. Using engaging media like podcasts can help share and discuss these ideas effectively with a wider audience.

Mommie Issues

Disaffected Newsletter • 779 implied HN points • 29 Sep 23
🎙 Podcasts Audio Shows Personal Stories Cultural Commentary Mental health Public Discourse
  1. Domestic abuse has become openly common in society. It's not just a personal issue, but affects our politics and culture too.
  2. The show 'Disaffected' started to explore these serious themes in a personal way. Talking about individual experiences helps highlight larger societal problems.
  3. Childhood experiences, especially under difficult or abusive circumstances, can shape one's understanding of public issues today. These personal stories can help illustrate what’s wrong in the world now.

Unstable women will stop at nothing

Disaffected Newsletter • 1258 implied HN points • 17 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Mental health Social justice Legal system Public Discourse
  1. Some women with specific mental health issues can make false claims about violence and abuse. It's a serious problem that affects many people.
  2. There are cases where therapists avoid female clients due to concerns about false accusations. This makes it hard for some women to get the help they need.
  3. It's important to speak out about these issues and not dismiss them as exaggeration. Sharing experiences can help others understand the risks involved.

Chris Hedges Post-Election Livestream Q&A, Nov. 6 @ 6pm ET

The Chris Hedges Report • 82 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Livestream Q&A Public Discourse Political Commentary
  1. Chris Hedges is hosting a live Q&A on November 6 at 6pm ET. This is a good chance to ask questions about the election results.
  2. To participate in the Q&A, you need to be a paid subscriber. Keep your questions short so they can be addressed easily.
  3. The event will be streamed on Hedges' YouTube channel, making it accessible for everyone. It's a great opportunity to hear insights directly from him.