The hottest Social Issues Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

What if societies were (deliberately) built to learn? (part one)

Brain Pizza • 794 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🚌 Education Social Issues
  1. An 'experimenting society' uses real-life experiments to solve social problems. Instead of guessing solutions, we can test ideas to see what really works.
  2. Complex issues like poverty and health don’t have easy answers. We often need deep expertise and careful study to find effective solutions instead of relying on common sense.
  3. Learning from mistakes is important. If societies are built to learn, they can adapt and improve over time by evaluating what strategies succeed or fail.

Contrived cases make bad law

Adam's Legal Newsletter • 519 implied HN points • 06 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. Contrived cases can lead to bad legal precedent - The case of 303 Creative highlights how manufactured or contrived cases can have implications on legal decisions and create potentially problematic precedents.
  2. Verification of claims is crucial - The need to verify claims before relying on them is essential, as seen in the case where a fake request impacted the standing argument of 303 Creative.
  3. Supreme Court involvement in contrived cases - The case of 303 Creative raises questions about whether the Supreme Court should involve itself in controversial issues through manufactured litigation.

Four ol' terfs walk into a bar .....

A B’Old Woman • 939 implied HN points • 01 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues
  1. A group of friends aimed to find comfort after a canceled women's rally. They ended up at a vegan restaurant, which led to an unexpected confrontation.
  2. One friend accidentally wore a sticker with a controversial statement, causing the restaurant staff to ask them to leave. This led to a humorous but tense exchange.
  3. Ultimately, they chose to leave on their own due to hunger, reflecting on the absurdity of the situation and the reactions of the restaurant staff.

On the "elite overproduction" problem

In My Tribe • 774 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. The idea of 'elite overproduction' suggests that there are too many people aiming for top positions, which leads to instability. However, many college graduates still find good jobs, showing this idea might not hold true.
  2. Mounk argues that while many pursue fame in arts and media, this ambition has always existed. It can't explain the current issues in society.
  3. There are concerns that some sectors, like nonprofit and education, prioritize their own status too much, leading to a misunderstanding of what 'elite' really means.
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Sophie Lewis is a revolting dunce

White Hot Harlots • 139 implied HN points • 16 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. The 'family abolition' movement is seen as extreme and regressive, causing divisions even within the left.
  2. Sophie Lewis, a prominent figure in the 'Family Abolition' movement, advocates for the dismantling of traditional family structures and promotes controversial views on gender and sexuality.
  3. Lewis argues that children should have full legal agency from birth and aims to create a society where kids are liberated from the influence of their parents, leading to skepticism about the practicality and implications of such ideas.

Hidden Open Thread 355.5

Astral Codex Ten • 894 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Social Issues
  1. This is an open thread for subscribers to discuss various topics. It's a space for people to share their thoughts and engage with one another.
  2. The post is meant for paid subscribers, indicating exclusive content. This means only those who support the platform can participate.
  3. Readers are encouraged to share the post, which helps increase visibility and engagement. Sharing can also foster a sense of community among subscribers.

Andrew Cuomo Enters His Influencer Era

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 217 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. Andrew Cuomo is trying a new strategy after losing a recent primary election. He is visiting working-class neighborhoods to connect better with voters.
  2. Cuomo's campaign acknowledges that they didn't engage with their base enough during the campaign. They want to make sure people understand the importance of the current race.
  3. Some supporters are excited to see Cuomo, but they also want to know what he plans to do for the city, not just photo opportunities.

Matt Walsh Speaks For Me

Disaffected Newsletter • 1179 implied HN points • 22 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. People find strong support in voices like Matt Walsh's. His message resonates deeply with those who feel disconnected from mainstream views.
  2. Many believe that there are significant moral issues that need attention, and they appreciate outspoken advocates for their beliefs.
  3. Readers are encouraged to engage further by subscribing to platforms that share similar views, indicating a desire for community and support.

I'm lovin' it!

Disaffected Newsletter • 979 implied HN points • 19 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues
  1. The writer finds value in Substack Notes and is skeptical about the emotional reactions seen on social media.
  2. There is frustration with some people demanding moderation against 'hate speech' on Substack.
  3. The writer believes that Substack allows for freer expression without the strict controls found on platforms like Twitter.

Marriage isn't the solution

Men Yell at Me • 217 implied HN points • 10 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Social Issues
  1. Marriage rates are influenced by women's economic independence, which helps reduce divorce rates. When women have more choices, they tend to stay in marriages that are beneficial.
  2. The uptick in marriage can also be linked to changing views on relationships, such as the acceptance of same-sex marriage. These trends show a push for personal happiness over traditional norms.
  3. Arguing that marriage is the solution to social problems often ignores the need for broader support systems like healthcare and childcare. True stability comes from empowering individuals, not enforcing outdated roles.

As Long as You Criticize Republicans Too. . .

Disaffected Newsletter • 1099 implied HN points • 09 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. Some people believe that focusing on the harm done to children is more important than criticizing other political parties. They argue that not all politicians deserve respect if they support harmful policies.
  2. There is a growing frustration with certain political groups, especially when their priorities seem out of touch with serious issues like child safety.
  3. It's important to recognize that people can become so loyal to a party that they overlook harmful actions, making it hard to have constructive conversations about critical social issues.

Sending Our Problems Downstream

OK Doomer • 225 implied HN points • 31 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Social Issues
  1. People often pass their negative feelings to others instead of dealing with them. It’s like a cycle where one person's bad mood affects another.
  2. We’re facing deeper issues than just loneliness; we're not giving ourselves enough space to feel safe and cared for. This can lead to increased aggression and disconnection in society.
  3. Doing small acts of kindness can help us regain a sense of control and connection in a world that feels chaotic and hostile. It's important to clean up our reactions rather than pass on our frustrations.

A Voyage to the Island of Equalis

Heterodox STEM • 185 implied HN points • 20 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Social Issues
  1. In the Island of Equalis, the focus on diversity and inclusion can sometimes overshadow the importance of skill and merit in science. This means that some scientists may be chosen based on who they are rather than what they know.
  2. The idea that all answers in science should be equally accepted leads to confusion and a lack of clear truth. Instead of prioritizing accurate results, they value opinions and consensus, which can lead to false conclusions.
  3. Funding for research projects is often based on diversity rather than the quality of the work. This can result in ineffective studies and failed experiments, as seen by the issues with collapsing bridges and unsuccessful crops.

Wrong Side of History newsletter #66

Wrong Side of History • 237 implied HN points • 13 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. Political views can really impact relationships. Couples who have different opinions, especially on things like Brexit, are more likely to break up.
  2. There’s a growing concern about job security as AI becomes more common. Many white-collar jobs, like management consulting, could be at risk.
  3. Young women are getting involved in political movements, but discussions often focus only on radicalization among young men. This oversight might miss important issues concerning women.

Kiwis increasingly don't buy into gender ideology, say five poll results in the last year.

A B’Old Woman • 419 implied HN points • 07 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. Many New Zealanders are expressing concerns about gender ideology, especially regarding its impact on women's sports and spaces.
  2. Five polls over the past year show a clear trend that people do not support the forced inclusion of gender ideology in schools and public policies.
  3. Politicians may not be hearing about these concerns because people feel uncomfortable speaking up, but it doesn't mean those issues aren't important.

When The Slaughter Stops In Gaza

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1769 implied HN points • 27 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Social Issues
  1. The author reflects on hopeful plans for peaceful times after the violence in Gaza stops, like caring for plants and learning new things.
  2. The piece vividly describes a future post-conflict scene of normal, joyful activities with loved ones, contrasting it with the current distressing situation in Gaza.
  3. The writing emphasizes the longing for peace, normalcy, and connection amidst the ongoing violence and chaos in Gaza.

Matt Walsh did nothing wrong

Disaffected Newsletter • 1119 implied HN points • 19 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. Matt Walsh is expressing his views about a controversial figure and believes that sharing his honesty is valid and necessary.
  2. He emphasizes the importance of consistency when critiquing others' opinions, urging critics to apply the same standards to him.
  3. The writer stands firm in their belief that their messages are not excessive or unproductive, indicating a commitment to their viewpoint.

The Child is the Father of the Man

Holodoxa • 199 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
📚 Literature Social Issues
  1. Maintaining functional families is crucial for the well-being of society.
  2. Personal narratives can have a powerful impact in raising awareness and understanding social issues.
  3. The upbringing and stability provided in early childhood significantly impact an individual's future outcomes and societal harmony.

Why Should I?

Wild Holy & Free • 739 implied HN points • 19 Jul 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Social Issues
  1. The author finds joy and inspiration in writing and crafting every sentence.
  2. The author sold a new book project and is excited about the creative process.
  3. Updates on a Patreon meeting, Jay Z's Anti Book Ban Initiative, and Illinois abolishing cash bail.

Bari’s Picks of the Week: Men Melting Down

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 306 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. Young men are feeling lost and vulnerable, making them susceptible to extreme ideologies from both the left and right. It's important to recognize these factors if we want to help them.
  2. There's a growing interest in Catholicism among young men seeking traditional values and answers to modern problems. Many are looking for real guidance after finding that some popular influencers aren't providing the solutions they need.
  3. Democrats are struggling to connect with young men who feel abandoned by the party. They need to acknowledge the frustrations young voters have and focus on real solutions instead of just talking points.

Why the Danes do it better (and other stories)

Wrong Side of History • 289 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. Denmark's summerhouse culture promotes happiness, as many people have access to homes by the coast. This is different from the UK's struggle with second home ownership and the politics around it.
  2. Danish politics thrive on transparency and honesty, helping to maintain trust and satisfaction among the public. This contrasts with the perception of politics in countries like Britain, where trust has eroded.
  3. The discussion around welfare in the UK highlights a connection between social breakdown and dependency on benefits, raising concerns about long-term consequences and the need for systemic change.

Dispatches from the Group Chats vol. 1

Erik Torenberg's Thoughts • 715 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. Some CEOs are debating if San Francisco is truly recovering, with mixed views on safety and enthusiasm for the city's comeback. While some see improvements, others are skeptical about the long-term outlook.
  2. There's a lot of internal talk about the Biden administration's approach to debanking, particularly among those aligned with Elizabeth Warren. They believe tech and finance are damaging the economy, and there's a push to reduce their influence.
  3. Many executives are worried about safety, hiring private security, and making changes to their social media presence. There's a noticeable shift in the urgency of these concerns in the recent months.

Genocidal Psychopaths Celebrate International Day To Combat Islamophobia

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1625 implied HN points • 16 Mar 24
📰 News Social Issues
  1. International Day to Combat Islamophobia led to hypocritical statements by political figures condemning Islamophobia while engaged in actions that fuel it.
  2. The Democratic party is characterized as masking the violent actions of the US empire with proclamations of love and support for marginalized groups, while continuing to engage in harmful policies globally.
  3. The post criticizes Democrats for outwardly condemning Islamophobia while being complicit in atrocities against Muslim populations, highlighting the disconnect between their words and actions.

Dingus of the Year: JD Vance

Men Yell at Me • 660 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. JD Vance has been declared the Dingus of the Year for 2024 due to his controversial actions and opinions.
  2. The 'undecided voter' was also highlighted as a Dingus, often seen as indifferent to pressing social issues.
  3. Despite the negativity, there were some positive developments in 2024, including a significant fundraising effort for abortion access and the legalization of same-sex marriage in Thailand.

So what if they’re below average?

Something to Consider • 39 implied HN points • 08 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. Immigration can be beneficial even if new arrivals have lower average intelligence. People with high intelligence can greatly contribute to economic growth and help lift others out of poverty.
  2. Knowledge is essential for progress, but it's not shared equally. Smart people create innovations that can benefit everyone, even if some tasks are done by less skilled workers.
  3. Countries benefit collectively from advancements made in one area. For example, technologies developed in rich nations can significantly improve lives and economies in poorer regions.

Dear New York

Splattern • 79 implied HN points • 23 May 24
🎭️ Culture Social Issues
  1. New York can feel very lonely, even with so many people around. Many people struggle with this feeling of isolation in the city.
  2. The strong desires for things, like food, relationships, and success, can feel overwhelming. This intense wanting can sometimes hurt but also feels very alive.
  3. Embracing the desire for more can be energizing. It pushes people to chase their goals and opens up endless possibilities in life.

The drowning will pull you beneath the waves too

Disaffected Newsletter • 939 implied HN points • 22 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues
  1. Abusive family situations can be very toxic and damaging. It's important to recognize that you don't have to accept this abuse or keep it a secret.
  2. Society often pressures individuals to maintain family privacy, which can help abuse go unreported. Speaking out about these issues is vital for breaking the cycle.
  3. If you find yourself in a similar situation, the best choice may be to distance yourself from those toxic family members. Your well-being should come first.

Succession, Narcissists and Vampires

rebelwisdom • 569 implied HN points • 03 May 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues
  1. Delving into the tension between human emotion and game theory through 'Succession'.
  2. Exploring the impact of narcissism and sociopathy on building sustainable systems.
  3. Comparing narcissists to vampires as they both thrive on others' energy and can be charming but manipulative.

Lots of People Don't Know What a Woman Is

Bentham's Newsletter • 432 implied HN points • 08 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues
  1. A woman is not just someone who identifies as a woman - the definition has flaws and circularity.
  2. Defining a woman as an adult human female leads to issues and does not match common understanding.
  3. A woman can be defined by a set of feminine traits, which is practical, inclusive, and well-supported by many philosophers.

TBM 327: Hot Takes and Parochial Altruism

The Beautiful Mess • 674 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Social Issues
  1. Many people in tech show strong loyalty to their group but criticize those outside of it. This behavior can create division and blame against those who are seen as different or less capable.
  2. The tech industry is experiencing a lot of mixed emotions, with issues like job losses and pressure to perform leading people to cling to their own groups for support and validation.
  3. It's important to reflect on how our own biases shape our views of others. Being aware of our reactions and the impact of societal pressures can help us respond more thoughtfully to negative talk.

Recognize who the opposition is

Disaffected Newsletter • 899 implied HN points • 20 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. Know who your true opposition is. It's important to recognize who is not on your side in any battle you're fighting.
  2. Don't feel obligated to pretend to like people who don't share your values. It's okay to stand firm in your beliefs.
  3. Be aware that some people may betray you or your cause. Trust your instincts about who to rely on in difficult times.

Call Me Karen (Barbara)

Disaffected Newsletter • 519 implied HN points • 14 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues
  1. A jury let violent attackers from Antifa off without punishment, raising concerns about the legal system's integrity. It highlights a troubling trend where justice seems compromised.
  2. The government has intruded into everyday life, notably with the ban on incandescent light bulbs and hefty fines for selling them. This serves as a warning about increasing government control.
  3. The term 'Karen' has been used to label reasonable women negatively, but there is a call to redefine this and celebrate reasonable women like 'Barbara'. It's about recognizing and valuing assertive, concerned voices in society.