The hottest Social Behavior Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Health & Wellness Topics

The Rise of the News Avoider

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 412 implied HN points • 20 Mar 26
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Lots of people across the Western world are quietly unplugging from daily news and media, choosing not to follow the day-to-day headlines.
  2. Many people unplug because constant news consumption produces anxiety and exhaustion, and stepping away—whether due to life changes or choice—can reduce stress and improve focus.
  3. This shift likely reflects problems in the media—its emphasis on drama, conflict, and spectacle—rather than a lack of interest in staying informed about the world.

Why You Need to Learn about Trivers' Theory of Self-Deception

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 1560 implied HN points • 17 Mar 26
🔬 Science Social Behavior
  1. Trivers' theory of self-deception is a fundamental framework for understanding politics and social life, and it changes how we interpret people's statements and actions.
  2. Grifting and sincere belief can be complementary, not opposites—people can genuinely hold an idea while also acting in ways that benefit them.
  3. Asking whether someone "really believes" something or is "grifting" is often too simplistic and needs more precise distinctions, because belief, motivation, and signaling frequently overlap.

The Covid Screwtape Letters - Part 4 - The "New Normal"

COVID Reason • 475 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Social Behavior
  1. Social distancing has made people feel more isolated and suspicious of each other. It's now hard for them to feel comfortable with close contact, like handshakes or hugs.
  2. Working from home sounds good, but it has turned into a way to control people's lives. They end up working more and feel stuck, as their home becomes like an office.
  3. People might miss in-person interactions, but they are being trained to prefer the convenience and safety of digital communication. This can make real connections feel uncomfortable.

Part 3: Who can suffer the most “for the greater good.”

COVID Reason • 614 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Behavior
  1. People have started to believe that their safety relies on how strictly they isolate themselves, sometimes even turning against one another for not following the rules.
  2. Many individuals are competing to show how much they can sacrifice for others, feeling proud of their suffering for the supposed 'greater good.'
  3. There are some who are questioning the restrictions and looking for balance in life, but they are often faced with pressure to conform and are labeled as selfish.

No, it's not "the drugs"

Disaffected Newsletter • 2358 implied HN points • 12 Sep 24
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Bad behavior often gets blamed on drugs, but it's important to recognize that the person themselves may be the root cause. It's too simple to attribute negative actions solely to external factors like substances.
  2. Many people falsely assume that everyone has a normal, healthy mindset. This leads to ignoring the reality of personality disorders and the individual's responsibility for their actions.
  3. Understanding the role of personality pathology is key to addressing and reducing bad behavior in society. Blaming drugs distracts from deeper issues within individuals.
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This Explains A Lot About Society: The Asch Conformity Experiment

The Society of Problem Solvers • 279 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Social Behavior
  1. Many people choose to fit in with their group rather than stick to the truth. This happens often in social situations.
  2. Using group problem-solving methods can help avoid this issue. When people don’t see each other's answers, they're more likely to say what they really think.
  3. Working together in trusted teams can help us solve problems better. Just like how single cells evolved to work together, we can improve by collaborating effectively.

Why We Drink

News from Uncibal • 835 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Behavior
  1. Alcohol is more than just a drink; it's linked to our freedom. When people try to limit our drinking, it can mean they're also trying to limit other freedoms.
  2. Drinking responsibly helps us learn about our choices and how to live with others. It's part of growing up and being a good citizen in society.
  3. If society starts to restrict our alcohol consumption, it could show a bigger problem. It might mean that people are becoming less capable of handling their freedoms well.

I Live in Minnesota. Let Me Tell You about Tim Walz's COVID Snitch Line

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 793 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Behavior
  1. Tim Walz's COVID snitch line encouraged people to report their neighbors for breaking pandemic rules. This created a culture of distrust and fear among citizens.
  2. The phenomenon of reporting on others echoed historical events where citizens informed on each other, like during the Salem Witch Trials and McCarthy era, but here it focused on pandemic-related behaviors instead.
  3. Many reports to the snitch line seemed motivated by personal grievances rather than genuine concern for public health. This reflects how people can lose a sense of personal freedom and try to control others in tightly regulated environments.

Psychology’s Greatest Hits (Part 3/3)

Living Fossils • 20 implied HN points • 11 Mar 26
🔬 Science Social Behavior
  1. The most reliable psychology comes from explicit, quantitative, testable models—like laws of learning and signal detection—that make precise predictions and connect to other sciences.
  2. Thinking about how minds evolved and work in real environments explains many supposed “biases” and shows family and kinship profoundly shape behavior. Simple heuristics are often fast, frugal, and adaptive rather than errors.
  3. Psychology needs clear, specific, and measurable claims that fit with other disciplines; vague or unfalsifiable ideas lead to error, so healthy skepticism and rigor matter.

Incivility: Dunkin' Donuts edition

Disaffected Newsletter • 2138 implied HN points • 20 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Incivility in service industries is becoming more common. Many service workers seem to have bad attitudes, which affects customer experiences.
  2. Customers often feel like they have to tiptoe around service staff, even when they are polite and friendly. This leads to a frustrating situation for everyone.
  3. Mistakes happen, but how workers respond to those mistakes makes a big difference. Poor customer service can often feel like a personal attack on the customer.

Domestic abuse at scale

Disaffected Newsletter • 2477 implied HN points • 03 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Behavior
  1. Domestic abuse often involves manipulation where the abuser takes advantage of the victim. This idea is compared to how governments and media influence and control people's beliefs and actions.
  2. People can internalize harmful beliefs, thinking they should give up their own needs for others. This is similar to children feeling they are to blame for their parent's anger.
  3. Many believe it's wrong to defend their interests, even if it harms them. This mindset can lead to voting against one's own best interests and accepting unfair treatment.

The True Self is the Person You Want Others to Believe You Are

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 4053 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Your true self is often linked to how you want others to see you. When you live up to that image, you feel more authentic.
  2. People might feel less authentic when they act in ways that go against their desired reputation. They often say things like 'that's not who I am' when they're ashamed.
  3. The idea of the 'true self' isn't a concrete thing; it's more of an ideal we aim for. We feel more like ourselves when our actions align with that ideal.

Girl Belongs to the World

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 2096 implied HN points • 18 May 25
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Kids have a moment when they realize they are joking, which shows a shift in their social understanding. It's fun to see their expressions change as they enter this new playful space.
  2. Adults can joke without needing a clear transition, showing sophistication in humor. This helps keep conversations lively and engaging.
  3. As a parent, kids may see you as a tool for fun or food, and they'll get more independent as they grow. Children can quickly shift from playful to serious, showing their cleverness in social interactions.

Childhood and Education #10: Behaviors

Don't Worry About the Vase • 1612 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🚌 Education Social Behavior
  1. Many teenagers today feel more anxious than bored, possibly due to smartphones and social media. This shift may affect their mental health in deeper ways.
  2. Kids need time to be bored and explore freely without pressure. Allowing them to do nothing can help spark creativity and self-direction.
  3. Instead of just telling children what not to do, offering them positive alternatives like sports can lead to better outcomes and healthier behaviors.

Be Present

The Analog Family • 559 implied HN points • 25 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Being fully present in the moment is important, so try to put your phone away. When you focus on what's happening right in front of you, you really connect with others.
  2. Attention is a valuable gift. When someone gives you their full attention, it feels special and strengthens your bond with them.
  3. Kids notice when you're distracted by your phone. Make an effort to be present with them to encourage open conversations and foster stronger relationships.

Culture Shock 2

Obvious Bicycle • 2564 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. India is much dustier than the US, which makes photos look better in cleaner air. It's something people often mention, but it's really felt after living in a less dusty environment.
  2. Payment options in India, like UPI, are super flexible for various transactions, though Apple Pay can be more convenient because it doesn't require entering amounts or PINs.
  3. There's a lot of SMS spam in India, ranging from transaction confirmations to promotions. It's overwhelming and sometimes feels like you'll get a text for any little thing you do.

The Hero and other Cultural Characters

Chris Arnade Walks the World • 2116 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Men often want to feel like heroes and this need gives them a sense of purpose. When they can rescue or protect others, it boosts their self-worth.
  2. Societies need positive hero roles for men to fill, like firefighters or engineers. Without these, negative behaviors can emerge and create bigger problems.
  3. Cultural roles shape how people live and interact. Having healthy characters to identify with is important, as they help provide meaning and connection to the community.

Feminisation has consequences: I

Not On Your Team, But Always Fair • 1120 implied HN points • 13 Apr 23
🚌 Education Social Behavior
  1. Human societies have presumptive sex roles that stem from transferring risks away from, and resources to, child-rearing.
  2. Men and women exhibit cognitive and physical dimorphisms due to different reproduction strategies.
  3. The evolution of pair-bonding in humans has shaped societal roles, emphasizing male dominance and the importance of male teams.

How AI Is Quietly Changing What It Means to Be Alone

The Algorithmic Bridge • 1167 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. AI is making it easier for people to be alone without feeling lonely. This can be concerning because we may lose the desire to connect with others.
  2. We're spending less time socializing, and our connection to shared experiences is fading. This means we don’t have much in common to talk about anymore.
  3. While it might seem fun to have personalized entertainment and AI companions, it can lead to deeper solitude. We might start to prefer this over real human connections.

Harvard, Dog and Cat People, Casual Sex

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1458 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Women tend to feel more loneliness and regret after casual sex, while men generally feel happier and more satisfied.
  2. In the Soviet Union, educated people were more supportive of communism compared to those with less education, showing that privilege can influence political beliefs.
  3. Trust levels vary by nationality; only a small percentage of Chinese citizens trust those from different countries, while much higher percentages in Germany, the US, and Australia do.

Why can’t we just skip the ritual?

Something to Consider • 39 implied HN points • 03 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Hypnotism is not magical; it helps people express what they want to do but don't usually allow themselves. It’s like getting permission to be silly and enjoy life.
  2. Many people drink alcohol to socialize, but it's more about feeling free to be open rather than because they need it. Alcohol acts as a permission slip for some to act more social.
  3. You can be fun and social without alcohol or any other crutch. The ability to connect and play is already within you; you just need the confidence to let it out.

Vulnerable Narcissism, Conformity, High Heels

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 984 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Men with more success tend to have more children. This shows a pattern in how parenting and status are linked.
  2. Younger people are divided about canceling J.K. Rowling for her views on transgender issues, while older people generally oppose canceling her. This trend may change society's views in the future.
  3. Women are more likely to wear high heels when they expect to meet attractive men. Their choice of footwear seems to be influenced by their interest.

Mentorship, Chivalry, Promiscuity

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1174 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Teams work better when everyone feels safe to share their thoughts, even if they disagree. Open conversations lead to better results.
  2. People today are less willing to stand out and are more afraid of criticism. This change might be due to the risks of being judged or isolated.
  3. In some primate species, females are promiscuous not just for pleasure but to protect their young. This behavior helps to avoid infanticide by keeping males guessing about paternity.

Holding on to being human

Disaffected Newsletter • 1358 implied HN points • 03 May 23
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. People often experience rudeness instead of kindness in customer service today. Many have become used to being ignored or treated poorly, which can affect how they respond to friendly interactions.
  2. Cultural changes play a big role in how people interact with each other, especially in stores. Different groups can show very different attitudes, leading to frustration and misunderstandings.
  3. Observing these changes in everyday interactions is important. Recognizing the decline in human connection helps encourage better communication and kindness in our daily lives.

frames

bookbear express • 1227 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Everyone has a 'frame' that guides how they act in different situations. It's like a set of personal rules for how to interact with others.
  2. Frames are important in relationships as they define how two people agree to behave towards each other. If one person changes their behavior suddenly, it can be confusing and upsetting.
  3. A good frame is consistent and supportive, helping you express who you are while also managing your emotions and impulses in a healthy way.

What Happens When You Stop Doomscrolling

OK Doomer • 347 implied HN points • 23 Jul 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Social Behavior
  1. Doomscrolling can feel like aimlessly consuming bad news, but really it's about trying to find information to stay safe in tough times.
  2. Many people avoid discussing serious issues like climate change or politics, which leads to a reliance on uplifting content that ignores real problems.
  3. When you stop doomscrolling, you can find better communities that help you face anxieties and encourage real conversations about important issues.

Slights

We're Gonna Get Those Bastards • 7 implied HN points • 13 Feb 26
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Slights—being subtly humiliated or ignored—stick with people much longer than obvious insults and can sour you for years.
  2. Small modern slights often come from online snubs or being left out, so don't overreact. Do small, free things like liking someone's post and focus on improving your own behavior instead of stewing.
  3. Paying real attention—remembering names, asking about people, and acting kindly without expecting anything back—makes people feel seen and will improve your relationships.

Things to argue about over the holidays instead of politics III

DYNOMIGHT INTERNET NEWSLETTER • 937 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. It's fun to argue about small, everyday topics instead of serious issues like politics around the holidays. These lighthearted debates can bring laughter and connection.
  2. Questions about cultural differences, like how we enjoy music or food, can spark interesting conversations. Exploring these topics helps us understand each other better.
  3. Discussions about abstract ideas, such as consciousness or the nature of reality, can make for deep and thought-provoking talks. It's a great way to share perspectives and learn something new.

Overpriced Friends

Fake Noûs • 259 implied HN points • 26 Jul 25
📖 Philosophy Social Behavior
  1. Many people overlook the kindness of their true friends and instead chase after the approval of those who don't appreciate them. This can make us unhappy and lead us to miss out on real connections.
  2. We often value things more if they seem hard to get. This 'Groucho Marx tendency' makes us think that easy friendships are somehow less valuable, which isn't true.
  3. Building strong friendships should focus on how well we connect, not on how hard it is to win someone over. Deep, meaningful relationships are the ones that truly matter.

Rudeness has consequences

Disaffected Newsletter • 1039 implied HN points • 19 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Rudeness can lead to real consequences. It’s important to treat others with respect, or there may be penalties.
  2. The author has decided to limit communication to only paying subscribers due to rude comments from some free subscribers.
  3. Polite requests for help are always welcome, but persistent rudeness will result in being blocked from contacting.

Behaviorist Evolutionary Psychology

Dissentient • 452 implied HN points • 06 Mar 23
🔬 Science Social Behavior
  1. Behaviorism and evolutionary psychology have different approaches to learning mechanisms and understanding human nature.
  2. Primary reinforcers and punishers play a significant role in shaping behavior and motivation in humans.
  3. Social interactions involve shaping behavior through reinforcement and punishment, influencing adaptive goals and responses.

Ravings of a Christmas Hater

Handwaving Freakoutery • 611 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Gift-giving during Christmas can feel overwhelming and stressful for some people. It creates pressure to find the perfect gift while also considering social status and connections.
  2. The holiday has become heavily focused on consumerism and materialism, overshadowing its original spirit and purpose. People often feel rushed and distracted from enjoying the true meaning of the season.
  3. Some people prefer holidays like Thanksgiving that emphasize togetherness and gratitude without the burden of gift-giving. Simple celebrations can sometimes be more fulfilling than elaborate traditions.

Did this really happen?

Disaffected Newsletter • 799 implied HN points • 25 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. A group of joggers tried to cross the street in a way that almost caused a car accident. It seemed like they were trying to get hit, which was unusual behavior.
  2. Society is losing basic public courtesies, like waiting for the traffic light and respecting road rules. Many people no longer follow simple manners in public spaces.
  3. This incident highlighted a troubling change in behavior among pedestrians, with a feeling that some people may purposely put themselves in danger for attention or fun.

The Gonzo Syndrome

Disaffected Newsletter • 719 implied HN points • 02 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. Many pedestrians act like they own the road, stepping into traffic without care. This behavior creates a feeling that they are challenging drivers, similar to Gonzo's reckless taxi-hailing.
  2. Some people ignore social norms and expect others to accommodate them. They seem to purposefully disregard basic courtesies and often act like their actions don't even matter.
  3. Adopting a confident stance can change the dynamic in these encounters. Instead of yielding, standing firm may surprise those who seek to intimidate and assert dominance.

Psychology Links, 1/19/2025

In My Tribe • 379 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Social Behavior
  1. Many adults get stuck at a certain stage of moral development, which limits their understanding of complex societal issues. It's important to transition to a higher stage to deal with modern challenges.
  2. People often don't recognize their true motives and tend to present themselves in a better light. This self-deception can make us overly optimistic about ideas like socialism.
  3. Some people are naturally inclined to enforce social norms, which can lead to dangerous ideologies if not kept in check. It's essential to be aware of these tendencies in order to maintain a balanced society.

critical mass in the echo chamber

bad cattitude • 170 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Behavior
  1. People often find it hard to accept new information that contradicts their existing beliefs. They usually choose to ignore or reject this new data instead of changing their minds.
  2. When someone ties their self-worth to their beliefs, they can react strongly to any disagreement. This makes changes in opinion hard because it feels like a personal attack on their identity.
  3. Cancel culture can create a very homogeneous group where differing opinions are not tolerated. This leads to more extreme views and a lack of understanding of reality.

Crash

backstory • 436 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Behavior
  1. Different cultures react differently to accidents; in some places, people look for someone to blame, while in others, they remain calm and help each other.
  2. Icelanders have a very practical approach to problems, dealing with issues like car accidents without unnecessary drama or panic.
  3. When things go wrong, the response in Iceland often involves community support and humor, making light of the situation rather than escalating it.

The Right Side of History

Breaking Smart • 150 implied HN points • 07 Jun 25
📖 Philosophy Social Behavior
  1. Understanding history is complex and doesn't always have clear 'right' or 'wrong' sides. Sometimes we need to accept uncertainty and be okay with being wrong.
  2. Having opinions or beliefs is fine, but trying to find a single 'right side' can lead to confusion and extremism. It's important to be open to different perspectives.
  3. Engaging seriously with serious issues is necessary, but it's also important to embrace humor and unseriousness to keep a balanced view of life.

Risky Directions

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 109 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior
  1. People used to ask for directions more often, but now everyone has maps on their phones. This change means fewer chances for random, friendly interactions in public.
  2. There’s a balance between being aware of risks in the world and being open to meeting new people. Too much caution can make you miss out on connections.
  3. It's important to not let fear take over your life. While you should be aware of dangers, focusing only on risks can stop you from enjoying life fully.