The hottest Social Issues Substack posts right now

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Disaffected Newsletter • 1238 implied HN points • 07 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Music Politics Food Art Social Issues
  1. Enjoy music that is simple and emotional, focusing on melody and harmony over complicated sounds. This resonates with many people on a deeper level.
  2. When speaking out, the goal isn't to make friends or convince everyone; it's about reducing the influence of those you disagree with in society.
  3. A basic chicken recipe can be delicious and easy to make by ensuring you season the meat under the skin. It's a simple way to enjoy a tasty meal.

Is Transgenderism Just the Milgram Experiment Hiding Behind a Veneer of “Kindness”?

Bodies get in the way... • 530 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Rights Human Rights Social Issues Equality LGBTQ+
  1. Transgenderism is compared to the Milgram experiment where people can be manipulated to harm others, highlighting the potential dangers of blindly following authority figures.
  2. The concept of autonomous decision making is brought up, emphasizing the importance of taking responsibility for our actions and decisions.
  3. The issue of transgender rights conflicting with women's rights is discussed, pointing out the complexities and controversies surrounding this intersection.

Stop Making Me Hit You

Disaffected Newsletter • 1059 implied HN points • 15 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Legislation Social Issues Crime Activism
  1. Hamas has committed violent acts for public attention, showing their brutality is not hidden like past war crimes. It's time to recognize that not everyone labeled as a victim is innocent.
  2. California has introduced a new law that allows children as young as 12 to decide to enter foster care, raising concerns about state intervention without the need for clear abuse.
  3. The murder of activist Josh Kruger highlights complex issues, including allegations about his relationship with a minor and the circumstances surrounding his death.
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Top Links 569 Is College fee inflation back? China in LatAm & China in Hungary. Exploding tankers in the dark fleet and Sudan's death toll.

Chartbook • 400 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Economy International relations Public Policy Social Issues
  1. College tuition fees are rising again, and they are going up faster than general inflation. This could be a concern for students and families who are trying to afford education.
  2. China's influence in Latin America and Hungary is growing. It’s important to watch how this changes both regions and their relationships with other countries.
  3. There are serious issues happening globally, like exploding tankers and increasing death tolls in places like Sudan. These events highlight ongoing conflicts and crises that need more attention.

puberty disruptors

bad cattitude • 194 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Education & Policy Health Policy Child welfare Gender identity
  1. Children are going through confusing times during puberty, and it's normal for them to feel lost. Instead of supporting them through these challenges, some ideas today make them feel like they should question their gender, which can lead to more confusion.
  2. There are serious risks in pushing kids towards gender-changing treatments without fully understanding the consequences. These medical actions can change their lives forever in harmful ways.
  3. Our society needs to focus on helping kids understand that feeling awkward during puberty is okay. We should protect them from ideas that could cause more harm rather than supporting them through their natural development.

*Progressive Myths*: The Caplan-Huemer Interview

Bet On It • 196 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Political theory Public Policy Philosophy Wokeness
  1. The difference between a neutral and objective presentation is important. An objective approach aims to provide a fair and accurate account without taking sides.
  2. Many myths exist around racial pay gaps and other social issues, often attributing them to discrimination rather than productivity differences.
  3. The conversation around wokeness and climate change is complex. Some claims are true, but it's essential to approach these topics with careful analysis.

Sorry, it's not just difference, it is danger

Men Yell at Me • 340 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political divide Legislation Social Issues Women's Rights Identity politics
  1. Political differences can lead to real dangers, not just simple disagreements. It's important to recognize the serious implications these differences can have on people's lives.
  2. Women often face the greatest danger at home, where they are most likely to be attacked or assaulted. Laws that restrict women's rights only add to this danger.
  3. Telling marginalized groups that their lives and rights are less important is harmful. It is crucial to acknowledge and fight against these dangers rather than downplay them.

Feminisation has consequences: III

Not On Your Team, But Always Fair • 1041 implied HN points • 07 May 23
🎭️ Culture Gender Social Issues History Political Commentary Philosophy
  1. Feminisation in society leads to less solidarity, especially among women, with consequences for institutions.
  2. Increasing female participation in organizations can change emotional and social dynamics, not always for the better.
  3. Corrosive effects of feminisation can lead to social collapse or a shift towards more male-dominated solutions.

HWFO Reading List, February 2025

Handwaving Freakoutery • 147 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gun Control Culture Wars Civil Rights Political Rhetoric Social Issues
  1. Spiking articles can be a way to maintain quality and ensure only the best thoughts are shared. It's okay to keep some content private if it doesn't meet your standards.
  2. There's a belief that guns could eventually be a unifying social force rather than a divisive one. However, acknowledging the historical context and issues surrounding gun ownership is important.
  3. Participating in discussions about complex issues, even if some ideas aren't suitable for publication, can still provide valuable insight and foster community engagement.

Prominent New Zealand trans activist’s “disturbing” social media account is uncovered.

A B’Old Woman • 559 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism Gender Media Policy Social Issues
  1. A notable trans activist in New Zealand has been found to share concerning content on social media, including fetish material.
  2. Mainstream media and sports organizations in New Zealand have supported this activist without proper investigation into his background.
  3. There are worries about the implications of allowing people with certain views unrestricted access to women's spaces and sports.

Top Links 598 The impact of HIV/AIDS. The legacy of Commons. Austerity amongst downfall & the year when left-conservative populism became a thing.

Chartbook • 286 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy Historical Events Social Issues Political theory Health Policies
  1. The long-lasting effects of HIV/AIDS have significantly impacted life expectancy in sub-Saharan Africa. This shows how health crises can change a whole region's future.
  2. Understanding the legacy of Commons helps explain how past governance affects current political landscapes. It’s important to look at history to grasp today's issues.
  3. The rise of left-conservative populism marks a shift in political movements. This change highlights how people's feelings about politics and economy are evolving.

Links to Consider, 11/14/2024

In My Tribe • 394 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Inflation Political trends Social Issues
  1. Social issues are becoming more relaxed, and many activities that were once illegal are now accepted. This change shows a shift in American values, as old social norms are less effective.
  2. The recent elections showed that voters are focused on inflation, which influenced their choices. Many people felt dissatisfied with the Democratic candidates, especially Kamala Harris, leading to a shift towards Republicans.
  3. Traditional media like TV is losing younger audiences, while platforms like podcasts and social media are gaining popularity. This shift reflects a changing media landscape where people seek different ways to get their news.

Creepy government-funded 'anti-hate' organisation run by a weird Egyptian man becomes Germany's first official internet censor under the Digital Services Act

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 200 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship Free speech Social Issues Government Regulation
  1. Germany has introduced a new system where selected individuals, called Trusted Flaggers, will report online content they consider harmful, including hate speech and fake news. This means that some people will have the official power to censor what goes online.
  2. The Trusted Flaggers must apply and show they are qualified to flag illegal content. This process allows almost anyone with the right intent to report content without complicated red tape.
  3. One of the first organizations operating as a Trusted Flagger is REspect!, led by Ahmed Haykel Gaafar, who has a background in studying online hate. They plan to not only report illegal content but also push for changes in laws around speech.

Twenty Years Ago, Everyone Thought My Gay Teen Novel Would Flop. They Were Wrong.

Brent and Michael are Going Places • 1002 implied HN points • 17 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture LGBTQ+ Books Writing Social Issues Literature
  1. The author's gay teen novel, Geography Club, was initially rejected by many but went on to become a success, selling over 100,000 copies and being adapted into a feature film.
  2. The publication of Geography Club contributed to a rise in LGBTQ YA literature, leading to more diverse representation in the genre.
  3. The author reflects on the changing landscape of LGBTQ rights since the release of Geography Club, highlighting progress made while acknowledging ongoing challenges.

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.

AI gift-giving, gossip surveillance and the tyranny of Spotify Wrapped towns

Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends • 738 implied HN points • 02 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture AI Gift Giving Technology Social Issues Entertainment
  1. AI tools like shopping bots are changing how we give gifts, aiming to lessen the emotional labor required for relationship maintenance.
  2. Contrary to popular belief, thoughtful gifts may not always be better received than thoughtless ones, as studies suggest recipients may not always appreciate the effort put into a gift.
  3. While using AI tools for gift-giving can streamline the process and offer good suggestions, it may also risk diluting the emotional and personal connections that come with traditional gift-giving.

I'm not going where you're going

Disaffected Newsletter • 1958 implied HN points • 05 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Views Social Issues Cultural critique Personal Reflection
  1. Losing friends can happen when your views change. When someone undergoes personal growth or changes their beliefs, it can strain relationships.
  2. Some people choose to ignore harsh realities. It's hard to stay friends with those who refuse to see or accept truths you believe are important.
  3. Living in denial affects trust. When friends refuse to acknowledge issues, it can lead to a breakdown in trust and a feeling that you can't stay in the same space anymore.

The 2028 Election

In My Tribe • 349 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political strategy Voter trends Party Dynamics Social Issues
  1. Voters often select candidates based on what they dislike instead of what they like. This can lead to politicians misunderstanding the actual public sentiment.
  2. Democrats are facing challenges attracting diverse groups who are increasingly open to Republican ideas. They need to engage these groups as equals rather than treating them as inexperienced.
  3. The future political landscape will depend on people's economic feelings and the dynamics between masculine and feminine approaches in society. Both of these factors could shape the 2028 election.

Wyndhamn: Glider Skolverket på sanningen?

Rak höger med Ivar Arpi • 943 implied HN points • 10 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Education Inclusion Policy Social Issues Government
  1. Skolverket is spreading radical ideas about norm criticism and intersectionality to teachers and students.
  2. The concept that was used to label the idea of honor culture as racist is now governmental practice.
  3. Poesikollektivet 'Det nya gardet' presented interpretations of curriculum, grading criteria, and values in poetry form at a conference about the educational mission of schools.

"Look What You Made Me Do"

Disaffected Newsletter • 1318 implied HN points • 15 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Mental health Childhood Family Dynamics Abuse
  1. Borderline Personality Disorder can lead to emotional instability and unpredictable behavior, affecting those around them. It's important to understand that this behavior is not the fault of others.
  2. Experiencing emotional or psychological abuse manifests in guilt and confusion, often leading to questions about one's actions. People involved can feel responsible for the abuser's pain, which is a common manipulation tactic.
  3. Societal norms have changed, and behaviors once considered unacceptable in private are now more visible and often seen as normal. It's vital to recognize these signs of abuse in both personal relationships and broader social contexts.

crying is not an emergency

bad cattitude • 266 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Civil Rights Education Politics Psychology
  1. Crying shouldn't stop the fun for everyone. If a kid cries during a ride, the ride shouldn't have to stop because it ruins the experience for others.
  2. Making every cry an emergency creates bad habits. It allows people to misuse their feelings to control situations, which can be frustrating for others.
  3. Growing up means learning to handle tough situations without dramatic reactions. It's important for everyone to participate and enjoy life, instead of making everything about personal feelings.

I Didn't Teach the "I Have a Dream" Speech

The View from Rural Missouri by Jess Piper • 537 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
🚌 Education Teaching History Equality Civil Rights Social Issues
  1. Dr. King's 'Letter from Birmingham Jail' is an important text to study, offering a different perspective than his 'I Have a Dream' speech.
  2. Dr. King's legacy and messages have been whitewashed; it's crucial to revisit his work with fresh eyes to truly understand his stance against racism.
  3. In light of current challenges like book bans and whitewashing of history, it becomes even more critical to engage with Dr. King's radical ideas to push for change.

TLP Week in Review, 1/28-2/3

The Liberal Patriot • 471 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Social Issues International relations Elections Government
  1. The Atlantic discusses the negative mindset affecting trust in people. Let's focus on positivity and belonging.
  2. Foreign Affairs compares current conflicts to pre-WWII signs. Awareness is crucial to prevent a global war.
  3. Freedom House reports on autocratic regimes using tactics on US campuses. This undermines academic freedom.

No bridge too far

Disaffected Newsletter • 1658 implied HN points • 13 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ethics Political Identity Social Issues Government Policy
  1. Many progressive liberals seem to lack a moral line that they won’t cross, even when their party takes extreme actions.
  2. There are serious issues in society like the education system failing kids, rising fatherlessness, and the controversial handling of child gender identity that should concern everyone.
  3. Supporting political parties that endorse harmful policies is seen as a moral failure, with the belief that it creates a divide between people who care about ethics and those who don't.

penny for your thoughts

bad cattitude • 304 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Criminal Justice Civil Rights Public Safety Law enforcement Social Issues
  1. There's a struggle over what kind of society we want, and people are deeply divided on how to protect it. One side sees Daniel Penny as a hero for stopping a threat, while the other views him as a dangerous killer.
  2. The justice system seems to favor criminals over victims, which creates fear. Prosecutors often act based on threats of violence, leading to a breakdown in law and order that affects everyone.
  3. We need to allow society to protect itself. People should be able to defend themselves and each other safely, without fear of harsh penalties for taking a stand against wrongdoers.

Why It's So Hard to Build a Collapse Proof Community

OK Doomer • 109 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Community Sustainability Social Issues Economics Climate
  1. Building a strong community is really difficult. Many people think it can solve a lot of problems, but it requires a lot of effort and resources.
  2. Examples like Babcock Ranch show that creating resilient communities often needs significant investment and planning. It's not just about having a nice neighborhood; it takes money and careful design.
  3. Many efforts to create climate-smart communities are happening globally, but the assumptions about community often overlook the real challenges involved. It's important to be realistic about what it takes to make these ideas work.

Why you can't bring a roast to a rally

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 427 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Comedy Politics Social Issues Performance Arts
  1. Comedy works best in the right context. A roast at a comedy club is different from jokes at a political rally. The audience needs to understand that it’s supposed to be funny.
  2. Intentions behind jokes matter, but so does the setting. If the environment is charged with negativity or hostility, jokes might not land well.
  3. Fame can be tricky in comedy. Just because someone is popular online doesn’t mean everyone knows them. This disconnect can change how people react to their humor.

Grooming gangs: the rape and pimping of vulnerable girls by men that escaped justice, and the myth that fascists cracked the case

Julie Bindel's podcasts and writing • 904 implied HN points • 05 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Social Issues Media Coverage Ethnicity Sexual Abuse Racism
  1. The grooming gang issue involves the rape and pimping of vulnerable girls by men who often escape justice.
  2. The myth that fascists cracked the grooming gang cases is debunked, as it was survivors, former police, and advocates who exposed the atrocities.
  3. Ethnicity of perpetrators in grooming gangs is relevant, but not in the way racists claim; male violence towards females is the core issue.

Transcript: Katherine Brodsky

Lean Out with Tara Henley • 432 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Books Psychology History Social Issues Personal experiences
  1. Guest Katherine Brodsky shares insights on speaking out against orthodoxies in the age of outrage.
  2. Brodsky's personal experience of being mobbed online led her to write her book, 'No Apologies'.
  3. Growing up in a household that talked about self-silencing under communism shaped Brodsky's perspective on censorship and free speech.

Mask Hypocrisy And Extremism Is Alive And Well

Unmasked • 73 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health Government Policy Pandemic response Media Analysis Social Issues
  1. There is a lot of inconsistency around mask-wearing, showing that some people don't practice what they preach. This hypocrisy has been a constant theme since the start of the pandemic.
  2. Even after several years, certain groups remain very strict about masking and other COVID rules, highlighting a strong commitment to these behaviors.
  3. New data, like what some found in Sweden, continues to challenge the effectiveness of masks, sparking debates about their true value during the pandemic.