The hottest Social Issues Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Culture Topics

Black Intellectuals in the Twenty-First Century

Glenn Loury • 337 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Social Issues History Politics Identity
  1. In the 1980s, many African Americans strongly opposed apartheid in South Africa. This shows a sense of unity against oppression, even if the situations were different.
  2. The conversation highlights how some issues today, like the treatment of Palestinians, can be more complicated than past issues like apartheid.
  3. Understanding historical context helps us see why certain causes gain widespread support while others struggle for the same level of recognition.

The Owner of the LA Times Takes the Red Pill

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1326 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Race Journalism Social Issues Public Policy
  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.

Bat Shit Insane Religious Fanaticism Is A Requirement For US Empire Managers

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 3036 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political Commentary Political theory Social Issues Religious Influence
  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.

Equity Meme, Dominance Disputes, Voter Preferences

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 965 implied HN points • 27 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voter Behavior Social Issues Identity politics Public Policy
  1. Alpha male chimpanzees can become too aggressive, leading lower-ranking males to team up against them. In extreme cases, they might even kill the dominant male.
  2. In the last century, men have grown much taller and stronger than women, possibly because women prefer taller, more muscular men.
  3. Voter preferences have changed, with white voters remaining stable in their choices while nonwhite voters have increasingly leaned towards the Republican party.

"I'm actually quite alarmed/scared of how fast this is increasing from day to day."

gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen • 1567 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Gender identity Mental health Social Issues Lifestyle Personal Stories
  1. Some people feel overwhelmed by their thoughts about gender transition. It can take over their daily lives and make it hard to focus on other things.
  2. Others struggle with their transition not meeting their expectations. They may feel like they're not passing as they hoped, leading to sadness and frustration.
  3. There are various opinions about what being a woman means, and it can be confusing. Each person's understanding of womanhood can be different based on their experiences.
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Always Bet Against the Davos Man

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2684 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political trends Global events Economic Policy Corporate Influence Social Issues
  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.

Four years of Noahpinion

Noahpinion • 16882 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Policy Analysis International relations Social Issues
  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.

At least five interesting things: Trump aftermath edition (#52)

Noahpinion • 20117 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Voting behavior Public Policy Social Issues
  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.

How the Star of 'Wicked' Just Sabotaged Her Own Movie

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 356 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Film Theater Entertainment Performing Arts Social Issues
  1. Cynthia Erivo reacted strongly to a fan's edited poster of 'Wicked', claiming it was offensive and degraded her. Many thought her response was an overreaction and not necessary.
  2. This kind of response from Hollywood actors is becoming more common. Some stars seem to let their egos get too big, which can harm their own films.
  3. There's a growing trend where people in entertainment see themselves as victims of oppression. This makes it hard to enjoy their work when they focus on perceived grievances instead of celebrating their art.

Collective Psychosis in Vermont

Disaffected Newsletter • 2457 implied HN points • 06 Sep 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health Policy Analysis Social Issues Cultural Commentary Local news
  1. Oktoberfest in Burlington was canceled due to health concerns about Eastern Equine Encephalitis, which affects mosquitoes in the area.
  2. Despite the low number of cases, local officials advised residents to avoid outdoor activities during certain hours to prevent infections.
  3. The response reflects a larger trend of reacting emotionally to health risks, leading to broader community actions that some see as extreme or unnecessary.

The One Ring

Disaffected Newsletter • 699 implied HN points • 23 Sep 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Media Critique Social Issues Public Policy Political Commentary
  1. There was a discussion about a disturbing summer camp related to child abuse that was almost near a school. The focus was on the serious implications of this situation.
  2. The media and political figures are reacting strongly, blaming Donald Trump for the violence he's faced, which raises questions about accountability.
  3. The conversation highlighted perceived social biases, specifically how racism is directed towards white people in today's society.

THE SHOW NOTES: Only Problems, Gretchen Whitmer's Ad, & The Age of Depopulation

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1019 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Campaigns Government Social Issues
  1. OnlyFans has caused serious social problems, including issues like non-consensual content and child exploitation, despite being marketed as a safe space for adult content creators.
  2. Kamala Harris is struggling to define herself apart from President Biden, which may harm her campaign. Many voters want to see her strong and independent from current unpopular policies.
  3. The world is facing a decline in population due to low birth rates, leading to an aging society. This could change how we live and interact, with many family structures becoming different from what we know now.

It's Time to Redefine "Fringe"

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 14365 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Government Policy Public Health Elections Social Issues
  1. The term 'fringe' is often used to dismiss views that many people actually support. It's important to reconsider what we label as fringe.
  2. Critics can be quick to judge individuals based on their views without considering the larger public opinion that might align with those views.
  3. There seems to be a disconnect between mainstream experts and the beliefs of the general population, leading to debates about academic freedom and public health policy.

One More Dead Palestinian Kid

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1550 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Conflict Human Rights Military Action Social Issues
  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.

My Conversations With Luigi Mangione

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 6093 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political News Media Commentary Public Figures Crime Social Issues
  1. Surrendering your freedom to make choices can lead to losing everything else that's important in life. It's essential to maintain your agency.
  2. It's easy for people to jump to conclusions about someone's actions without really knowing them. Personal experiences can provide deeper insights.
  3. Detachment from intense situations can help gain clarity and allow for more reasoned thoughts afterward. Taking time to reflect is valuable.

Apologies to Afroman

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 9295 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Election Issues Political Satire Government Accountability Social Issues
  1. Afroman has a new song called 'Hunter Got High' that comments on Hunter Biden's situation. It's interesting how music reflects current events.
  2. There was a discussion comparing the seriousness of Hunter Biden's actions to those of Donald Trump. Opinions on this topic vary widely across different groups.
  3. The lyrics of Afroman's song cleverly tie in political themes, showing how artists can engage with social issues through their work.

Elissa Slotkin Just Wants to Be ‘Normal.’ Will Her Fellow Democrats Listen?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2364 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Elections Government Political strategy Social Issues
  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.

Ignoring Biden's Hurricane Incompetence

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1119 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Response Disaster Management Media Coverage Political critique Social Issues
  1. Media coverage can be biased based on race and the political party in power, affecting the response to disasters.
  2. Many conspiracy theories about disaster responses can arise when the media shifts focus away from local reports.
  3. During disasters, it's crucial for leaders to prioritize affected communities rather than international issues.

Fathoms

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1220 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Cultural critique Activism
  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.

People with Serious Mental Illness Say Racist and Bigoted Shit All the Time

Freddie deBoer • 13211 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Mental health Disability Rights Social Issues Psychiatry Stigma
  1. People with serious mental illnesses can sometimes express racist or bigoted thoughts, which challenges the common belief that mental illness doesn't influence behavior. It's important to recognize that mental health conditions can distort thinking and actions.
  2. Acknowledging the complex relationship between mental illness and behavior is essential. People should not dismiss bad behavior outright but consider the person's mental health struggles and how those may impact their actions.
  3. There’s a cultural tendency to oversimplify mental illness, leading to misunderstandings. It's vital to accept that being mentally ill doesn't exempt someone from responsibility for their actions, but it can complicate how we view those actions.

Luxury Beliefs are Real

Yascha Mounk • 5855 implied HN points • 25 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ideologies Social Issues Cultural critique Public Policy
  1. Luxury beliefs are ideas that rich people can support because they don't face the negative effects, while poorer people may suffer from those very beliefs. It's like having opinions that sound good but aren't thought through.
  2. These beliefs have become popular as rich people can't show off their status with expensive things anymore, so they use opinions instead. But not all people with luxury beliefs are trying to signal status; some might just be naive.
  3. The idea of luxury beliefs applies across different groups, not just to one side of the political spectrum. Many beliefs held by both the rich left and right can have serious consequences for people who actually experience those issues.

How and What Are You Learning as an Adult?

Culture Study • 1756 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Personal Growth Education Social Issues Cultural Studies
  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.

The End of Cheap Progressive Signalling

The Ruffian • 368 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Corporate Governance Social Issues Progressivism Cultural critique
  1. Companies are reassessing their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) due to increased pushback and potential risks. They're realizing that showing support can now have real consequences.
  2. The era of easy progressive signaling is over, forcing companies to reconsider their policies and be more genuine about their commitment to social causes. Some might have to rethink their actions rather than just following trends.
  3. The left needs to evaluate if some of its agenda was based on easy symbols rather than real substance. This shift might help them connect more with everyday people who felt excluded from those discussions.

It's Obviously the Phones

Many Such Cases • 36729 implied HN points • 05 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Technology impact Mental health Community Dynamics Cultural Trends
  1. Phones are a major reason why many people feel lonely and have less sex. They take away real-life time we could spend with friends and family.
  2. People today are spending more time on their phones than ever before, sometimes up to ten hours a day. This means less time connecting with others in person.
  3. Even though there are fewer places to socialize, it's also about how much we choose to focus on our phones instead of real-life interactions. We can choose to use our phones less and try to connect with people more.

Why the Danes do it better (and other stories)

Wrong Side of History • 289 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Justice System Political Opinion Social Issues Public Policy Cultural Commentary
  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.

If They Don't Believe They're Enemies, Why Should You?

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2267 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Rhetoric Public Policy Social Issues Political Conflict Media influence
  1. If leaders from opposing sides, like Trump and Obama, can be friendly, it makes you question why others believe they have to fight constantly.
  2. Many supporters have strange contradictions in their beliefs, like claiming to support America first while backing a foreign country's interests.
  3. There's a serious gap in understanding the real conflict, where one side is portrayed as a victim while the other is seen as the oppressor, making it crucial to recognize the true relationships and not just the narratives.

Universities are falling short again

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 150 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy Higher education Health Policy Government funding Social Issues
  1. Universities didn't hold important debates during the COVID-19 pandemic. Topics like school closures and mask mandates were never discussed, leading to a loss of trust from the public.
  2. There's a call for universities to address issues around NIH funding reform. Instead of promoting fear about funding cuts, they should engage in constructive discussions to improve the system.
  3. The general public feels disconnected from universities, especially regarding how taxpayer money is spent. Universities need to listen to these concerns and actively involve diverse opinions to regain public support.

Joe Biden Was Never a Moderate. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1910 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Presidential politics Political Commentary Social Issues Immigration Policy
  1. Joe Biden has been seen more as a progressive leader than a moderate. Despite his campaign promises, actions during his presidency show a focus on significant social changes.
  2. Venezuela is facing serious political turmoil as the current president, Maduro, claims victory despite protests and claims of a rigged election. Many citizens are unhappy and have fled the country.
  3. A recent misdiagnosis of Alzheimer's highlights problems in the healthcare system. It shows that patients sometimes have to fight to get proper care and that the system can fail even those with trained professionals.

Divers subjects

Disaffected Newsletter • 1918 implied HN points • 27 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Government Policy Social Issues Technology impact Youth culture
  1. Many people now accept that AI can make mistakes, and they think it's normal to just ask for help later. This mindset can hurt our rights, like due process, especially when it comes to important things like licenses or voter registration.
  2. We’ve changed how we view young and old people in society, putting too much focus on the youth and not enough value on the wisdom of age. This shift has made being older seem less important and even embarrassing for some.
  3. The rise of the 'teenager' as a separate identity is a recent cultural change, and it leads to neglecting the responsibilities of nurturing and guiding younger generations instead of just letting them act out.

Top Links 759 The privatization of ICE detention. The monsoon comes early. Mogadishu under pressure & an African road.

Chartbook • 414 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Prison Reform Public Policy Social Issues Current Events
  1. The privatization of ICE detention is a significant issue in the U.S. prison system, especially for immigration enforcement. Private facilities play an important role in detaining immigrants.
  2. The early arrival of the monsoon season is impacting various regions. This can affect agriculture and local economies, so it's important to pay attention to climate changes.
  3. Mogadishu is facing considerable pressures which are influencing its stability and development. Understanding these challenges is key to addressing the needs of the area.

The Explosion of Jew-Hate in Trudeau’s Canada

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 5147 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Antisemitism Government Public Safety Social Issues Civil Rights
  1. There has been a huge spike in antisemitic incidents in Canada, increasing by 670% recently. This alarming trend shows a significant rise in hatred and attacks against Jewish people.
  2. Many Canadian Jews feel increasingly unsafe and targeted, with feelings of victimization growing. Surveys indicate that a lot of them doubt the situation will improve anytime soon.
  3. Incidents of overt antisemitism have become more common on campuses and in communities, leading to a troubling normalization of hatred. This shift in attitudes is deeply concerning for those affected.

The Gaslighting, and a clarification

Disaffected Newsletter • 4316 implied HN points • 02 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Criticism Public Opinion Identity politics Social Issues
  1. Gaslighting is a serious issue where people are made to feel crazy for their beliefs. This can happen on a large scale in society, affecting how we see and understand certain situations.
  2. Physical characteristics, like bone structure and body shape, play a role in how we perceive someone's gender. It's important to acknowledge that many people can see these traits, regardless of their beliefs.
  3. Psychological manipulation can come from various sources, including media and authority figures. It's crucial to recognize this abuse and maintain self-respect to protect ourselves.

kitten corner: LA story

bad cattitude • 190 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Media Lifestyle Social Issues Identity
  1. Marketing needs to be thoughtful and reflective of the message you want to send. It's important to consider the image and branding carefully.
  2. When creating movements or campaigns, the visuals used can greatly influence public perception. A strong image can either support or detract from your message.
  3. Even newcomers to marketing can understand that the right imagery plays a crucial role in any campaign, highlighting the need for strategic thinking.

In Australia, Jew-Hate Is Out of Control

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1233 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Antisemitism Social Issues Current Events Public Safety Community Advocacy
  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.

Confessions of a Highly Insensitive Person

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 855 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🎭️ Culture Mental health Social Issues Economy Media Identity
  1. Many people feel special because they have mental health labels, but this can lead to misunderstandings about what they're really experiencing. It's important to recognize that not all feelings need a diagnosis.
  2. Some people believe expressing struggles is good, but it can be hard to balance that with the need to stay grounded. Everyone's journey with their own issues is different and valid.
  3. Criticism often comes when discussing mental health and how it's talked about in society. Engaging in these conversations can stir strong reactions from others, highlighting a divide in perspectives.

Send the troops home

Situation Normal • 80 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Civil Rights Protests Government Military
  1. Protests have many different sides, so it's important to see the full picture rather than label them simply as peaceful or violent.
  2. Local law enforcement knows how to handle protests better than federal troops, who might cause confusion and logistical issues.
  3. When facing government actions that threaten safety, it's crucial to speak out and demand the return of troops to protect the community.

Does watching gun sports increase gun sales?

Random Acts of Medicine • 99 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gun Control Legislation Public Policy Social Issues Cultural Trends
  1. Watching gun sports at events like the Olympics might lead some people to try shooting sports, but it doesn't seem to cause a big overall increase in gun sales.
  2. Gun sales usually go up during certain seasons, like hunting seasons or holidays, and they've also spiked after events that cause fear, like elections or mass shootings.
  3. Even if there were an increase in sales due to the Olympics, it would be hard to tell if it was because of the games or other events happening at the same time, like presidential elections.

Abigail Shrier Was Vilified. Now She’s Been Vindicated.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3987 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Politics Health Policy Social Issues Public Discourse
  1. Some researchers bravely challenge popular beliefs, and Abigail Shrier is one of them. She wrote a book about the risks of transitioning minors, especially teenage girls.
  2. Shrier found that parents were often misled about the consequences of their choices. Medical professionals used fear tactics to push life-changing treatments on families.
  3. Critics of the idea that minors should transition faced serious backlash. Speaking out against this belief often led to social and professional consequences.

A ‘Museum of Terror’ at Columbia. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2156 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Congress Social Issues Media influence National Security Public Opinion Government Policy
  1. Columbia University is struggling with a rise in antisemitism, with numerous reports of Jewish students feeling unsafe on campus. Recent events and exhibits have fueled tension, highlighting serious concerns for student safety.
  2. A new report has raised alarms about TikTok's influence on American youth, suggesting the platform is used to promote pro-China views. This has serious implications for national security and the upcoming Supreme Court case regarding its future in the U.S.
  3. The portrayal of body image is changing again, as many celebrities at the Golden Globes showcased thin figures possibly aided by weight loss drugs like Ozempic. This raises questions about the effectiveness of the body positivity movement and societal beauty standards.

America, the beautiful

Chris Arnade Walks the World • 3020 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Identity Cultural Change Social Issues Optimism
  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.