The hottest Social Issues Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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I got hold of a copy of the "Woke Agenda"... and it's SUPERBAD

So Here’s a Thing • 1435 implied HN points • 12 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Political Ideologies Political Discourse Policy Making Voting behavior
  1. The concept of extending care and compassion to all individuals, regardless of differences, is crucial in today's world.
  2. The 'Woke Agenda' is often misrepresented by some as promoting communism when in reality, it advocates for simple kindness and understanding.
  3. The divide between right-wing and left-wing ideologies lies in the willingness to bridge gaps or widen them, with the importance of empathy and unity being central to societal progress.

Preaching to the choir

Austin Kleon • 2837 implied HN points • 17 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Education Social Issues
  1. It's important to share ideas and creativity with friends and community. Connecting with others can inspire new thoughts and strengthen relationships.
  2. Reading and listening to influential figures can spark new insights. Ursula Franklin's work on silence and technology is a great example of this.
  3. When you believe in your ideas, it shows. Loving what you create can lead to more meaningful and impactful work.

The Dingularity 2024

Men Yell at Me • 531 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Political Satire Public Policy Social Issues
  1. Dingularity describes a situation where too many foolish leaders come together, creating chaos and losing meaning in the world. It's a funny way to highlight how absurd things can get in politics.
  2. The author jokingly points out that many questionable figures are being appointed to important positions. This reflects a mix of humor and frustration about the current political climate.
  3. Even amidst all the craziness, the author emphasizes the importance of laughter and not losing sight of joy while fighting for justice and freedom.

Child abuse and extremist politics

Disaffected Newsletter • 379 implied HN points • 17 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Extremism Child abuse Social Issues Mental health Activism
  1. There is a connection between having a difficult childhood and joining extremist groups. Many people in these groups have faced trauma early in life.
  2. The discussion includes personal stories from former members of groups like Antifa. Understanding their backgrounds can help us see why they joined these movements.
  3. Exploring these connections can lead to better support for those affected by childhood trauma. It's important to address these issues to prevent them from escalating.
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The truth we don’t want to face

Men Yell at Me • 503 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Conspiracy Democracy Media Social Issues
  1. Conspiracy theories can become attractive, especially when people are struggling to understand their feelings about political loss. Many individuals look for explanations rather than facing uncomfortable truths about their beliefs.
  2. Real change comes from understanding the systems we live in and who benefits from them. This requires questioning our own roles and complicity in societal issues.
  3. Fighting misinformation and conspiracy theories takes more than social media posts; it needs community action and support. Sitting back won't create the change we want to see.

Five Widows

Splattern • 59 implied HN points • 08 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Human experience Social Issues Charity Community Personal narrative
  1. Many widows are struggling to feed their children and face hardships after losing their husbands. They are often left with little income and rely on small daily sales for survival.
  2. The visits highlighted the importance of understanding individual situations before providing help. There’s a need for respect and genuine connection when discussing challenges.
  3. Directly providing food instead of money is suggested as a better way to help these families. It helps to ensure the support reaches those in need without creating additional problems.

Unconscionable Punishment

Fake Noûs • 418 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Criminal Justice Incarceration Policy Reform Social Issues
  1. America has a huge problem with mass incarceration, with many people in prison for non-violent crimes. This system brings a lot of harm to individuals and families, and it costs the government a lot of money.
  2. Prison conditions can be very abusive, and this abuse is often ignored. It's important to realize that when the state puts someone in prison, it has a responsibility for what happens to them there.
  3. Instead of relying heavily on prisons, we should consider alternatives like community service and forcing criminals to pay restitution to their victims. This could achieve similar benefits without the negative side effects of prisons.

Who Deserves to Live?

New Means • 1375 implied HN points • 07 May 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Activism Community Inequality Justice
  1. The killing of Jordan Neely sheds light on systemic issues like lack of care for the homeless and mentally ill, capitalism, and white supremacy.
  2. There is a growing movement of people advocating for care over violence, housing over incarceration, and support over demonization.
  3. We must fight for a world where everyone's needs are met, where compassion is given, and where we work towards a better future for all.

The Politics of Cultural Despair

The Chris Hedges Report • 607 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Social Issues Corporate Influence Civil Rights
  1. Despair is a major issue in society today. Many people are struggling with feelings of hopelessness due to lost jobs, poor economic conditions, and a lack of political representation.
  2. The rise of cult leaders reflects a society that feels powerless. People often turn to these leaders in hope of regaining control and finding meaning in their lives.
  3. To create real change, we need to focus on organizing and striking against corporate power. This can help restore dignity and purpose to people's lives and tackle the problems caused by a failing system.

Top Links 576 Social exclusion in the US mortgage market. Elon's regulatory issues. Will Trump trigger chaos in the Balkans? Historical Vistas on Sri Lanka’s 2022 People’s Uprising

Chartbook • 472 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Housing policy Social Issues Regulations Historical Events
  1. Many Americans can't buy homes because of low credit scores. The bottom third of people really struggle to get mortgages.
  2. There are concerns about how recent actions by Elon Musk might affect regulations in his businesses. People are watching closely for any changes.
  3. The political situation with Trump could cause serious problems in the Balkans. It's a situation that needs attention due to its potential impact.

Friday Funnies: While Rome Burns,

Who is Robert Malone • 38 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Current Events Public Policy Social Issues Political Commentary
  1. Wealthy millennials are leaving California more than any other state. This shows that many people are looking for better opportunities elsewhere.
  2. Los Angeles is facing significant challenges, and some experts are providing strong analyses of this situation. It's important to stay informed about local politics and developments.
  3. There are interesting nostalgic stories and visuals shared that transport viewers back to old times in places like Ireland. It highlights how much history and culture can be captured and appreciated.

Casting the First Stone

Thinking about... • 475 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Religion Politics Social Issues Feminism
  1. Many people misunderstand the themes and messages in 'The Handmaid's Tale,' often blaming one religion while ignoring the complexities of the story.
  2. The story serves as a warning about the dangers of blindly following ideologies that can lead to oppressive regimes, just like the fictional Gilead.
  3. It's important to reflect on our own beliefs and behaviors, especially when they can lead to harmful actions against others, as seen in the novel.

The Missing Myths

Bet On It • 467 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressivism Social Issues Gender Studies Racial Issues
  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.

Why is JD Vance obsessed with your uterus?

Men Yell at Me • 632 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Reproductive Rights Social Issues Economic Policy
  1. There is a concern among conservatives about the changing family structure in America. They believe that fewer children and more single-parent households are big problems.
  2. Some policies being pushed seem to aim to bring women back into traditional roles and out of the workforce. This includes things like restrictions on abortion and cuts to benefits.
  3. Forcing women to have children or marry doesn't actually solve family issues. It can lead to more problems like domestic violence and child poverty instead.

Abjection Doesn't Scale

Sucks to Suck • 1257 implied HN points • 18 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Mental health Self-Acceptance Community Dynamics
  1. Support scenes often dilute and struggle to represent the true complexities of the issues they're meant to address.
  2. In large groups or communities, the dynamics tend to favor normalcy and popularity, leaving outliers feeling excluded.
  3. Personal acceptance and understanding of one's flaws can be more valuable than seeking validation or belonging in external groups.

Did Gays Destroy Marriage?

Hold That Thought by Sarah Haider • 1257 implied HN points • 09 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Social Issues Gender Politics LGBTQ+
  1. The distinction between the gay rights movement and the gender identity movement was a key criticism in the Unbeliever's Manifesto.
  2. The definition of marriage was debated between a social institution for reproduction roles and a commitment between two people who love each other.
  3. Gay marriage was seen as fitting into the more modern, sentimental view of marriage, not the traditional understanding.

Josh and Leslie Elliott on "The Radical Center"

Disaffected Newsletter • 699 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Social Issues Censorship Identity politics
  1. Leslie Elliott was training to be a psychotherapist but got cancelled for her views on therapy that didn't align with woke beliefs.
  2. The discussion will be about the concept of the 'Radical Center', which suggests finding common ground amidst extreme viewpoints.
  3. People interested in the topic can watch the premiere online at the specified time to learn more about these ideas.

What Crips founder Stan Tookie Williams told me shortly before his execution.

Break Free with Karen Hunt • 1238 implied HN points • 29 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Crime Justice Social Issues Incarceration Government
  1. Stan Tookie Williams warned against joining gangs, advising to avoid trouble, pain, and sadness.
  2. He emphasized the importance of positive choices, education, and self-improvement to prevent a life of crime.
  3. Williams promoted peace, redemption, and helping others, even from death row, emphasizing the power of faith.

Trump Wins Bigly in Iowa. Fentanyl for Minors in Canada. And, Is the Golden Age of TV Over?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2457 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Media Social Issues Legislation
  1. Donald Trump set a new record for the largest margin of victory by a Republican in Iowa caucus history, with a lead of nearly 30 points over his closest competitors
  2. The divide between college-educated and working-class voters is a significant factor in American politics, causing fractures in both the Republican and Democratic parties
  3. Ron DeSantis faced challenges in the Iowa caucus, showing that embodying a political agenda and connecting with voters is more important than competence or experience

Dingus of the week: Pete Hegseth

Men Yell at Me • 380 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Media Criticism Social Issues Public Policy Government Accountability
  1. Pete Hegseth, a nominee for a high military position, has a controversial history with accusations of misconduct and a toxic work environment. His qualifications for such a role are questioned.
  2. There are serious concerns about how the military treats women, especially considering that many report experiencing harassment and assault. Putting someone like Hegseth in charge could worsen this issue.
  3. The healthcare system is failing many Americans, leading to feelings of rage and frustration. People are struggling to access necessary medical care, and this creates a sense of violence in everyday life.

Rob Henderson: The Three Adults Who Abandoned Me

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2147 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Memoir Social Issues Childhood Trauma
  1. Rob Henderson's life story, from abandonment to academic success, has deeply influenced his insights on social issues like class and culture.
  2. Luxury beliefs are ideas that confer status on the upper class and can negatively impact the lower classes, according to Henderson's observations.
  3. Henderson's journey from a troubled childhood to academic achievement sheds light on the challenges faced by those in foster care and the importance of education in breaking such cycles.

Comedy and Culture Wars: Why Laughter is the Antidote to Polarisation

rebelwisdom • 648 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Comedy Identity Social Issues Activism Art
  1. Humor can help shift polarisation in culture by allowing us to laugh at ourselves and break free from the seriousness of current societal tensions.
  2. Comedy has historically faced censorship and backlash, but the rise of social media has changed how outrage is expressed and impacts comedy.
  3. Laughter can lead to cognitive flexibility, social bonding, and breaking us free from rigid frames of thought, making comedy a powerful tool for cultural change.

Disaffected: Episode 157

Disaffected Newsletter • 599 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Social Issues Government Education Health
  1. Woke culture has spread widely and affects many areas like medicine, education, and government, even in traditionally conservative areas.
  2. In Montana, a girl with serious trauma was taken from her parents because they disagreed with a medical procedure she was pressured to undergo.
  3. Colorado is considering a law that lets felons change their names if they identify as transgender, raising concerns about transparency for employers and parents.

Pedophiles, Hebephiles, Incels, and Transgenders

donaldjeffries • 1198 implied HN points • 30 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Sexuality Crime Media Society
  1. The term 'pedophile' is often misused and misunderstood, with distinctions between pedophiles, hebephiles, and other types of attractions.
  2. There is concern about the societal impacts of transgender activism, especially in schools and on young children.
  3. There are discussions about double standards and inconsistencies in society regarding sexuality, including issues related to incels and cultural attitudes towards minors.

Dark Magic

Becoming Noble • 1196 implied HN points • 28 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Literature Philosophy Politics Media Social Issues
  1. Harry Potter stories can be seen as carrying right-wing connotations despite the denotations of inclusivity and equality, which can influence different types of readers in varying ways.
  2. The Harry Potter series provides a case study on how stories can reduce prejudice and promote empathy towards marginalized groups, ultimately leading readers towards left-leaning ideologies.
  3. The manipulation of underlying themes in media, like Harry Potter, can be a tactic to shift the political perspectives of audiences, particularly those on the right, by using right-wing subtexts to convey left-wing messages.

My Birthday Toast to my Palestinian Arabic Teacher

The Chris Hedges Report • 238 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Language Education Art Social Issues Identity
  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.

Dingus of the Week: Nancy Mace

Men Yell at Me • 412 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Civil Rights Political Commentary Government Social Issues
  1. Nancy Mace introduced a bathroom bill targeting trans women, specifically aimed at new Congress member Sarah McBride. This move appears to prioritize political gain over inclusivity.
  2. The author criticizes Mace for claiming to protect women's spaces while potentially harming vulnerable groups, highlighting the hypocrisy in her actions.
  3. During a time when real issues, like rising costs and safety, need attention, Mace's focus on bathroom laws seems misplaced and not beneficial to the public.

Kanye Needs a Conservatorship

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 217 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Mental health Social Issues Public Discourse Media Critique
  1. Some people may struggle with mental health to the point they can't handle their own lives. This can lead to harmful actions or behaviors.
  2. Kanye West has made several controversial and hate-filled statements online, including antisemitic comments. This pattern of behavior raises concern about his mental well-being.
  3. There have been repeated incidents where Kanye has expressed extreme views, suggesting a need for oversight or support to ensure his safety and the safety of others.

HWFO Reading List, January 2025

Handwaving Freakoutery • 282 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Democracy Influence Social Issues
  1. The debate around Curtis Yarvin and Peter Thiel highlights how people's connections can spark discussions about moral and political values. It's important to think critically about who we associate with and what their beliefs might mean.
  2. The illusion of democracy is argued to be valuable because it helps maintain peace and stability in society. By making people feel like they have a say, it reduces the chances of revolt.
  3. Understanding the complexities of governance can help us see that sometimes what we think is control may just be a perception. This can lead to less anxiety about political matters, even if it feels cynical.

The Movie Will Begin In Five Moments

Public Universal Friend • 19 implied HN points • 03 Sep 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Film Music Social Issues
  1. Loneliness can feel overwhelming, but it can often be soothed with small comforts like food or company. It’s important to find things that can help lift that heavy feeling.
  2. Boredom is a significant trigger for risky behaviors, and it's important to address it by seeking connection and friendship. Making friends can help ease feelings of isolation.
  3. As we grow older, we often deal with deeper feelings and struggles that can feel like they grow out of us, but we keep trying to support one another. We all have a role in helping each other through the tough times.

In Defense of Illegal Immigration

Fake Noûs • 200 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Ethics Law Political theory Social Issues
  1. Illegal immigrants have no moral reason to respect immigration laws. If they have a chance to improve their lives by moving, they shouldn’t feel guilty about doing it, even if it's illegal.
  2. Even if we assume the state has authority and its laws are justified, it doesn't mean that potential immigrants have any obligation to follow those laws.
  3. Many beliefs about authority suggest that the government's power doesn't apply to people trying to immigrate illegally. So, even if someone thinks the government is legitimate, it doesn't change the reasoning for illegal migrants.

Hollywood's New Private School Arms Race

The Ankler • 569 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Education Social Issues Entertainment Youth Inequality
  1. Los Angeles' private schools are becoming more competitive with an increased focus on rebranding and marketing.
  2. Private schools in Los Angeles are facing challenges such as demographic shifts, DEI curriculum overhauls, and mental health issues among students.
  3. The private school market in Los Angeles remains competitive, with parents heavily investing in the admissions process and schools needing to navigate the needs of both parents and students.

Top Links 617 Student debt is baaaack. Modern defense. Bulldozer politics & Naples '44 revisited.

Chartbook • 257 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Economy Education Social Issues Political Analysis
  1. Student debt is becoming a big issue again, affecting many people's finances and future plans. It's important to stay informed about the changes related to it.
  2. There are ongoing discussions about modern defense strategies, highlighting the need for updated approaches in today's world. We should think critically about how these strategies impact our safety.
  3. The political climate is changing, with discussions about 'bulldozer politics' suggesting a more forceful approach to governance. It's worth considering how these tactics might shape our democracy.

How much 'queering' of society is being funded by the New Zealand taxpayer?

A B’Old Woman • 499 implied HN points • 20 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics LGBTQ Rights Public funding Social Issues Ideology Activism
  1. Some events funded by New Zealand taxpayers focus on LGBTQIA+ issues, which some believe changed societal norms.
  2. There are concerns about how these events may influence public perception and attitudes toward gender and sexuality.
  3. Debates exist regarding the appropriateness of using taxpayer money to support these initiatives and their impact on society.