The hottest Social Issues Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics
Caitlin’s Newsletter 740 implied HN points 06 Feb 25
  1. Israel is demolishing homes and causing suffering in Gaza and neighboring areas while claiming to be engaged in military operations. This leads to many civilian casualties and ongoing humanitarian issues.
  2. The political narratives around Israel often shift based on which administration is in power, but both parties support actions that lead to the same harmful outcomes for Palestinians.
  3. People are quick to blame Middle Eastern conflicts on the cultures involved, but they ignore the historical context of Western interventions and atrocities that shaped these situations.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 1913 implied HN points 05 Feb 25
  1. A small percentage, only 3%, of Jewish Israelis view Trump's plan for Gaza as immoral. This highlights a significant difference in perspectives regarding morality in relation to political actions.
  2. A majority of Jewish Israelis support the controversial plan to relocate the Palestinian population from Gaza. This reflects a broader societal attitude towards Palestinians, where many see them as less deserving of rights.
  3. This lack of empathy and understanding has consequences that extend beyond politics, affecting social values and perceptions within Israeli society. It suggests a deep-seated issue of moral awareness that influences various aspects of life.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1094 implied HN points 05 Feb 25
  1. Patrick Soon-Shiong bought the LA Times around two years before the newspaper faced serious issues regarding race and coverage. This came after the death of George Floyd and similar events across the country.
  2. The LA Times newsroom experienced a lot of conflict and emotion as staff members grappled with their past reporting and its impact on community violence. There was a strong push for change in how they approached their journalism.
  3. Supporting independent journalism, like that of the LA Times, is important and can be costly. Subscribing to these publications helps keep important conversations and investigations alive.
Richard Hanania's Newsletter 3047 implied HN points 21 Jan 25
  1. Trump's Day 1 executive orders focus on making energy production easier. This means fewer regulations on things like oil and gas, which could lead to more energy available for everyone.
  2. He signed orders to end 'diversity, equity, and inclusion' programs in government, which many believe unfairly prioritize certain groups over others. This shift aims to promote hiring based on merit instead.
  3. Trump also took a tough stance on immigration, changing rules around citizenship and tightening enforcement. This includes declaring that children born to non-citizens in the U.S. might not be granted citizenship.
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Freddie deBoer 12995 implied HN points 31 Jan 25
  1. Assimilation can help immigrants succeed in their new country by learning the language and culture. It makes it easier for them to find jobs and fit into their communities.
  2. Language skills are important in everyday jobs, especially for customer service roles. Customers expect to understand workers, and clear communication helps everyone involved.
  3. While celebrating diversity is important, it’s also necessary to recognize that moving to a new country often requires some level of adjustment. Immigrants may need support to adapt successfully.
Wrong Side of History 327 implied HN points 31 Jan 25
  1. Sensitive young men feel a strong connection to political figures like Trump. They believe that attempts to stop him reflect a broader struggle against their own experiences in society.
  2. There is a growing discussion about how sexual repression might play a crucial role in building civilizations, rather than causing issues as commonly thought.
  3. Political changes often arise from crises. People are more willing to accept big changes when they're facing hardship, making them more open to new ideas.
The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday 641 implied HN points 02 Feb 25
  1. Some people blame their problems on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) instead of taking responsibility. It's become a catch-all excuse for various issues, making it a controversial topic.
  2. Many tech leaders seem silent or unwilling to comment on political issues, raising questions about their priorities. They might be more focused on their profits rather than ethical or social concerns.
  3. Wealth does not always equal intelligence. Just because someone is rich doesn't mean they are smart or deserving of their success, as shown by failures in both tech and sports leadership.
C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. 12 implied HN points 01 Feb 25
  1. The Canadian government delays seniors' first pension check, which is seen as unfair and harmful. This system leaves many seniors struggling financially right at the start of their retirement.
  2. Low-income seniors are already burdened by taxes on their pensions, making the delayed payment even more difficult to accept. Many people believe this policy shows a lack of care for seniors in Canada.
  3. There are concerns that government policies, similar to those in the U.S., ignore the needs of vulnerable groups like seniors. This raises questions about the ethics and priorities of political leaders.
Richard Hanania's Newsletter 3535 implied HN points 17 Jan 25
  1. There are two types of people in white nationalist groups: some are smarter and focus on ideas, while others are just angry and uneducated. This creates a conflict in their beliefs.
  2. A lot of the smart people might avoid extremist groups because they don’t want to associate with those who have more basic racist views. They care about progress and quality.
  3. Talking about these contradictions can help people see that there are better ideas out there. Engaging with their views might not win over everyone, but it can show some there's no future in extreme identity politics.
Freddie deBoer 10365 implied HN points 24 Jan 25
  1. Many people got really upset about certain books in the past, often without reading them, which made it hard for authors. This created a strange situation where publishers would listen to loud complaints instead of just letting books be published.
  2. Right now, there's a bit of a backlash against that intense focus on social justice, but the effects of that period are still lingering in society. Some people are still trying to cancel things they don’t like, and that behavior continues in various forms.
  3. The way liberals approach politics often revolves around judgment and pointing out failures, which some see as limiting. There’s a question of what kind of politics will emerge in the future and if it will be different from how things have been.
Culture Study 3616 implied HN points 29 Jan 25
  1. Marty Goddard played a key role in creating the rape kit, which helped provide evidence of sexual assault. This changed how incidents were taken seriously in the legal system.
  2. The history of the rape kit shows that many women were not believed when they reported assaults. It highlights a culture that often dismissed survivors.
  3. This story also reveals how women's contributions can be overlooked in innovation. Even when they create important tools, men often get the credit.
Erik Examines 44 implied HN points 07 Feb 25
  1. Socialism aims to make the economy fairer for everyone by giving more power to the people. It's about using capitalism as a tool for better society, not just for profit.
  2. Climate change is a big issue caused by human activity, particularly from fossil fuels. We need to focus on clean energy sources like solar and wind power to help fix this problem.
  3. Education should help kids think critically and not just use technology all the time. It's important for them to learn how to spot misinformation and be curious about the world around them.
Vicky Ward Investigates 119 implied HN points 31 Oct 24
  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.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 1192 implied HN points 30 Jan 25
  1. The world is overwhelmed with issues like war, pollution, and corporate greed. Many people feel trapped in a cycle of distraction instead of addressing these problems.
  2. There is an underlying peace and wisdom beneath all the chaos and madness. It encourages people to seek deeper understanding and stillness in their lives.
  3. Facing the uncomfortable truths about the world is essential. It's important to move beyond denial and confront the realities we often ignore.
Unmasked 65 implied HN points 21 Jan 25
  1. The Biden administration faced criticism for its early COVID policies, which many viewed as extreme and unnecessary. Many felt that pushing vaccines on young children was not justified.
  2. States that lifted mask mandates did better than those that kept them, showing that some COVID restrictions may not have been effective. This sparked debates about the effectiveness of mandates.
  3. There were significant efforts to censor opposing views on social media regarding COVID, and some policies, like vaccine passports, created controversy and division among Americans. Many were frustrated with these approaches.
Cremieux Recueil 736 implied HN points 16 Jan 25
  1. National IQ estimates can be reliable and realistic even if they seem low, as they reflect a range of factors, including cultural and environmental influences.
  2. It's important to understand that an IQ score does not solely define someone’s abilities, especially in different cultural contexts where adaptive functioning matters more.
  3. Critics of national IQ data often misunderstand how mental retardation is defined and how IQ tests measure intelligence, leading to flawed arguments against the use of national IQ data.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 1541 implied HN points 27 Jan 25
  1. A two-year-old girl was tragically killed by Israeli forces in the West Bank, highlighting the ongoing violence in the region. It's heartbreaking to see such young lives lost.
  2. The author expresses deep emotional pain and despair regarding the loss of innocent lives, especially children, in conflict situations. These deaths leave a lasting impact on families and communities.
  3. The repetition of such tragedies can feel overwhelming, as if each death adds to an endless cycle of suffering. This ongoing situation calls for more awareness and compassion for those affected.
Noahpinion 32118 implied HN points 14 Dec 24
  1. Some Americans are celebrating violent actions, like murders, instead of condemning them. This shows a worrying shift in how people view morality.
  2. Political figures and media personalities sometimes justify or downplay violence, which can influence public opinion toward accepting such behavior.
  3. Despite these troubling signs, regular Americans might still hold personal morals, but public behavior seems increasingly harsh and unkind, possibly amplified by social media.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2684 implied HN points 23 Jan 25
  1. At the World Economic Forum in Davos, the mood has shifted from disdain for Trump to a more interested attitude in 2025. Elite business leaders from Europe now want to engage with his ideas.
  2. While the forum continues to push topics like Environmental and Social Governance and Diversity, the actual conversations among executives reveal a different focus. They seem more optimistic about the changing American sentiments.
  3. Despite the fancy corporate language about sustainability, the reality for many leaders might be more about capitalizing on current trends than sticking strictly to these ideals.
Holly’s Newsletter 2122 implied HN points 23 Oct 24
  1. College courses can shape how we think about ourselves and others. Some classes may focus too much on victimhood, which can lead to a negative mindset.
  2. It's important to control our reactions when faced with assumptions about ourselves. Choosing kindness instead of anger can lead to better outcomes.
  3. Cultural messages can make us doubt our abilities and feel like victims. It's crucial to challenge these beliefs and recognize our own strength.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 3036 implied HN points 22 Jan 25
  1. Religious fanaticism often seems required for people in power, especially in U.S. foreign policy. It's strange how those with extreme beliefs can run a country, while ordinary people might be seen as unfit.
  2. Many organizations claim to fight against antisemitism but sometimes focus more on protecting specific political interests. This raises questions about their true motives and effectiveness.
  3. International laws appear to be ignored by powerful countries when it comes to holding them accountable. This leads to a world where the strong set the rules and justice for everyone else is hard to find.
gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen 1607 implied HN points 23 Oct 24
  1. Trans communities might comfort young people about their fears regarding transition, but this can lead to unrealistic expectations about the outcomes.
  2. Young people often focus on details of their bodies in their transition journey, but they might overlook the bigger picture of biological differences that exist.
  3. There is a risk of young people blaming themselves or others for not achieving their goals in sports or transition, rather than recognizing the challenges they face.
Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie 2757 implied HN points 18 Oct 24
  1. Some people believe that certain political views support a system that relies on low-wage workers, which they compare to historical slavery. They argue that this system takes advantage of people who are undocumented.
  2. There’s a belief that some politicians want an underclass of workers who can be paid unfairly, instead of supporting fair wages for everyone.
  3. Some argue that stopping illegal immigration and reforming the job system would help everyone, making it fairer for workers and businesses alike.
TK News by Matt Taibbi 14560 implied HN points 28 Dec 24
  1. In 2024, many real stories got ignored while media focused on flashy but fake news events. This trend was called the 'year of the pseudo-event.'
  2. Media elites tried to cover up their incompetence by crafting unrealistic narratives, but this only highlighted their failures.
  3. Important issues were overshadowed by superficial stories, leading to big questions about trust and transparency being left unanswered.
Chartbook 443 implied HN points 27 Jan 25
  1. The US labor market has seen a lot of changes over time, with many people switching jobs frequently.
  2. Retail jobs are declining, which impacts many workers and the economy.
  3. There are ongoing discussions about the business of deportation, highlighting important social issues.
TK News by Matt Taibbi 11962 implied HN points 31 Dec 24
  1. Many Americans have started ignoring the news because they believe it will be bad. However, there are still many positive things happening that they miss out on.
  2. Access to healthcare has improved so much that even the poorest today can receive better care than some of the richest people did in the past.
  3. 2024 highlighted a spiritual crisis in America where extreme partisan beliefs began to crumble, showing a shift away from political conflicts toward a more hopeful outlook.
Freddie deBoer 15655 implied HN points 23 Dec 24
  1. The voices of people living with severe disabilities are often overlooked in public discussions about neurodiversity. This can leave families feeling isolated and unheard.
  2. Autism discourse has shifted to focus on individuals who thrive, while those who struggle daily are sidelined. It's important to acknowledge the challenges faced by many with severe autism.
  3. A diverse conversation about autism is needed, including all levels of ability and experiences. Everyone, regardless of their background, should have a say in these important discussions.
Basta’s Notes 81 implied HN points 19 Jan 25
  1. Consumer goods packaging is often really hard to open, and people are tired of it. Many everyday items come with frustrating seals and tabs that don't work properly.
  2. The packaging issue seems to come from companies not caring about their customers. Some brands even do a great job, showing that it is possible to make easy-to-open products.
  3. Basta's campaign idea focuses on fixing packaging to make it user-friendly. It taps into a common frustration shared by many people, making it a relatable issue.
The Common Reader 1417 implied HN points 16 Jan 25
  1. Gossip helps us communicate the truth when direct conversations feel difficult. It allows people to share important information without the pressure of a public setting.
  2. Telling the truth is morally important, especially when it can serve as a warning about someone's behavior. This makes gossip a tool for honest inquiry.
  3. Even though gossip often gets a bad reputation, it has a valuable role in social interactions. It enables people to express concerns and share insights about others.
Faster, Please! 639 implied HN points 14 Jan 25
  1. Global population is set to decline for the first time in history, mainly because people are choosing to have fewer children. This shift poses big challenges for governments worldwide.
  2. Unlike past population declines, like during the Black Death, today's situation is driven by personal choices rather than disease. We now face a situation of fewer births happening across different cultures and societies.
  3. The reasons for lower birth rates are complex. It's not just about wealth, as many poorer countries are also experiencing declining birth rates. People's desires for children play a crucial role in understanding these trends.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2364 implied HN points 18 Jan 25
  1. Elissa Slotkin believes being a 'radical pragmatist' is key for the future of the Democratic Party. She wants to focus on practical solutions that resonate with everyday voters.
  2. Slotkin's recent campaign was successful because she emphasized economic issues that truly matter to people, instead of getting caught up in political drama.
  3. The Democratic Party is currently struggling to find a clear purpose and leadership to unite its members and appeal to voters, especially after significant losses to Republicans.
Chris Arnade Walks the World 3020 implied HN points 01 Jan 25
  1. America has many problems, but it remains a place full of opportunities and hope. Many people still believe in the American Dream and work hard to achieve it.
  2. Even in tough situations, people show resilience and optimism. Stories of individuals striving for better lives highlight the strength of the human spirit.
  3. Despite its challenges, the US provides a sense of community and the chance for people to remake their lives. This idea of transformation is a key part of what makes America special.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1233 implied HN points 21 Jan 25
  1. Antisemitism is rising in Australia, resulting in acts of violence like firebombing. This is alarming and reflects a troubling trend.
  2. The Jewish community in Australia feels increasingly unsafe, with recent attacks targeting places like synagogues and homes.
  3. The situation has become so normal that people are not shocked when hearing about these attacks, indicating a serious societal issue.
The Chris Hedges Report 228 implied HN points 29 Jan 25
  1. The Arabic teacher, Ruba, uses honesty and humor to engage her students, making learning fun and memorable.
  2. Both the teacher and student share a deep emotional connection, often supporting each other through hard times, especially regarding difficult current events.
  3. The classes become a form of therapy and resilience, reminding them that they must continue learning and resisting despite the challenges they face.
Culture Study 1756 implied HN points 17 Jan 25
  1. Learning as an adult is important for personal growth. It helps you understand yourself and the world better.
  2. There are many ways to learn, including asking questions and engaging with others. Conversations with diverse people can offer new insights.
  3. Embracing continuous learning can lead to better relationships and a more fulfilling life. It's never too late to start learning something new.
Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie 1099 implied HN points 17 Oct 24
  1. The University of Michigan spent a lot of money and time on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts, but many people felt frustrated and saw it as a failure.
  2. Students from different backgrounds thought that the DEI programs were well-intentioned but didn't achieve their goals.
  3. Research suggests that people who are religious report being happier compared to those heavily focused on DEI principles.
Noahpinion 16882 implied HN points 24 Nov 24
  1. The return of Trump as president signals a big change in American politics. Progressivism seems to be struggling, and many Democrats need to rethink their strategies to reconnect with voters.
  2. Global liberalism is facing serious challenges as countries like China and Russia assert more power. The cooperation among democracies to combat authoritarianism seems to be fading.
  3. Advances in technology, especially in AI and industrial policy, hold promise for the future. While concerns about job loss due to AI exist, there are reasons to be optimistic about how technology can enhance human workers' capabilities.
Noahpinion 20117 implied HN points 13 Nov 24
  1. Election narratives that blame racism or sexism might not explain how people voted in 2024. Many nonwhite voters shifted towards Trump, showing Democrats need to rethink their approach to win back support.
  2. Democrats could benefit from focusing on economic growth while also supporting social safety nets. They should prioritize public services and aim for a shared American identity to unite voters.
  3. Recent signs suggest that progress in AI might be slowing. A variety of factors, including data limitations and ongoing issues like 'hallucinations', point to a more uncertain future for AI development.
Men Yell at Me 949 implied HN points 08 Jan 25
  1. Running in public spaces can feel dangerous for women because of harassment and violence from men. This creates fear and anxiety about simply existing in those spaces.
  2. Women’s bodies in public are often sexualized and blamed for harassment, making it hard for them to feel safe. Society frequently tells them to stay inside or take precautions instead of addressing the root of the problem.
  3. Despite the threats, it's important for women to keep asserting their right to be in public spaces. Running and walking let them claim their freedom and say, 'I belong here.'