The hottest Social media Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics

IG meme pages rejoice!

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 1522 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social media Content Moderation Political speech Censorship Tech Companies
  1. Meta's content moderation has had too many mistakes, often removing harmless posts by creators. They want to improve how they enforce rules to protect free expression.
  2. Memes and funny content, especially on Instagram, have been heavily affected by Meta’s strict moderation. Creators are frustrated with the inability to distinguish between humor and real misinformation.
  3. The conversation around internet freedom is changing, with voices like Joe Rogan suggesting that recent shifts in moderation policies are paving the way for more free speech. However, many argue that these changes started before recent events.

Important information if you used my Bluesky MP follows bot

Odds and Ends of History • 402 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Cybersecurity Software Social media Bots
  1. If you used the Bluesky MP follows bot, it's a good idea to change your Bluesky password for safety. There's a small chance harmful code was on the server, but it seems unlikely any personal data was taken.
  2. The issue arose from outdated Wordpress code on a server that was unintentionally exploited, highlighting the importance of keeping software updated. Neglecting updates can lead to security problems.
  3. The creator of the bot took immediate action by shutting it down and ensuring no more data was at risk. He is being transparent about the issue to help others understand the risks and best practices.

The Grinch has knee surgery tomorrow

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 2657 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Memes Social media Humor Gen Z Internet Trends
  1. The blue Grinch knee surgery meme has become super popular online, especially among younger people on TikTok and Instagram. It's a funny way to bond over absurd humor and connect with others.
  2. This meme is part of a trend where simple, ironic jokes can create communities and even go viral. People enjoy the low-pressure environment of sharing memes like this.
  3. Interestingly, some people are trying to turn this meme into a cryptocurrency called 'knee coin' to make money off of its popularity. This shows how memes can sometimes become more than just jokes.

BlueSky, Twitter, Celebrity, and the Is/Ought Distinction

Freddie deBoer • 4548 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Social media Celebrity Public Opinion Echo Chambers Political Discourse
  1. There are different social media platforms, each attracting different types of people and attitudes. Platforms like Twitter and BlueSky show how user bases can reflect broader cultural divides.
  2. The choice to join a platform often comes down to seeking comfort in shared beliefs and avoiding opposing viewpoints, which can create echo chambers. This has been a challenge for liberals understanding current political dynamics.
  3. A key concern is about wanting the visibility of online presence without the responsibility that comes with it. This reflects a deeper issue around accountability in our public online interactions.

An influencer is suing another influencer for copying her aesthetic. Can she win?

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 3284 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Social media Influencers Copyright Law Digital Content Trends
  1. An influencer is suing another influencer for copying her style and content. This case could change how online creators protect their unique aesthetics.
  2. The lawsuit raises questions about whether copying someone's visual vibe should be legally protected. Many experts think the original influencer's claim may not hold up in court.
  3. Similarities among creators are common online, but some influencers are frustrated with others who imitate their content too closely. This case could impact how influencers navigate creative boundaries.
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Let's check in on MrBeast

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 3553 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Influencers Social media Pop culture Digital Media Youth Trends
  1. MrBeast, a huge YouTuber, is facing a lot of controversies that could hurt his career. Allegations about his team and business practices have made people question his character.
  2. He’s trying to fix his public image by doing interviews and promoting his new Amazon show. He wants to reassure fans and investors that everything is okay.
  3. The way he handles this situation is important for his future. If he fails, it could change how people see him and affect his many business deals.

Why Australia is Setting a Minimum Age of 16 for Creating a Social Media Account

After Babel • 1118 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Internet Safety Mental health Social media
  1. Australia plans to set a minimum age of 16 for social media accounts. This is to help protect young people from online harm and encourage them to enjoy real-life activities instead of getting lost in social media.
  2. Research shows a big increase in mental health issues among young Australians, which coincides with the rise of smartphones and social media. The government believes that limiting social media use can help improve young people's mental wellbeing.
  3. The new law will hold social media companies responsible for checking users' ages. If they fail to enforce this rule, they could face hefty fines, which will help make sure children's online experiences are safer.

Open Thread 353

Astral Codex Ten • 2821 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Community Discussion Events Social media Learning
  1. People are questioning the optimism around solar power's future, showing that not everyone agrees on its potential. This discussion is happening after a recent conference.
  2. There's a bootcamp for learning about quantitative trading happening soon, but it's not designed to make you rich or improve job prospects in that field. It's more for those who just want to learn out of interest.
  3. The host is planning to limit advertising for events unless they're really important. This is to keep things focused and avoid overwhelming everyone with promotions.

My Wronggest Content

Jacob’s Tech Tavern • 437 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Social media Software Development Marketing Content creation Programming
  1. Posting wrong code online can lead to getting helpful feedback from others. Sometimes people are quick to point out mistakes, but that can help you learn.
  2. Using social media regularly can grow your audience. Posting interesting and engaging content helps attract more subscribers.
  3. Accepting criticism is important. It can be tough to hear people say your work is bad, but it's a chance to improve and grow.

Does Bluesky have the juice?

Read Max • 4241 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Social media Digital Culture User engagement Content creation
  1. Bluesky is growing quickly, with many users moving from Twitter. However, it's still not as big as Twitter or Threads, raising questions about its ability to truly replace Twitter.
  2. The users joining Bluesky are mainly liberal and politically engaged, which might limit the diversity of content compared to Twitter's broader audience.
  3. YouTube viewers seem to value two main qualities: curiosity and the ability to dominate in debates. These characteristics shape how people engage with political ideas online.

Why Harris Lost Uninformed Voters

The Discourse Lounge • 607 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political media Voter Behavior Partisan Politics Social media Election Campaigns
  1. The way people get their news has changed a lot. Now, many young people rely on social media for their information, which can create a divide in opinions.
  2. Republicans have cleverly used social media to spread their messages and appeal to specific demographics, especially young men and women.
  3. Democrats need to adapt their strategies to this new media landscape because just stating facts isn't swaying voters like it used to.

The majority of news influencers are conservative men, study finds

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 4448 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Political Bias Gender Issues Social media Public Discourse
  1. Most news influencers are men, and they often have conservative views. This creates a lopsided perspective in the news people consume online.
  2. Social media algorithms tend to favor sensational and emotionally charged content, which means that conservative voices get more attention. This can shape public opinions unfairly.
  3. TikTok is different from other platforms like Facebook and YouTube, as it has a more balanced gender representation among news influencers and doesn't favor conservative views as much.

The TikTok electorate

Read Max • 7008 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social media Elections Political Communication Political Analysis
  1. TikTok influences the political views of young voters, particularly young men. It can spread both anxiety about issues like the economy and radical ideas from influencers.
  2. Social media, especially TikTok, can create a mindset where users see themselves as entrepreneurs or gamblers. This can lead to a desire for chaos and instability in politics.
  3. The impact of TikTok goes beyond just spreading messages; it shapes how users think and relate to the world. This can make traditional political solutions less effective.

Mostleastremarkablegate And The Nature Of Online Harassment

Astral Codex Ten • 6469 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Online behavior Social media Digital ethics Public Discourse
  1. Online harassment can take many forms and often feels overwhelming. It's important to recognize its impact on individuals.
  2. Communication and understanding are key in addressing these issues. Talking openly about experiences can help build a supportive community.
  3. Everyone can play a role in reducing online harassment. Being respectful and standing up for others can make a difference.

I got banned from BlueSky for committing wrongthink

The Dossier • 617 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Social media Political Activism Censorship Political parties
  1. BlueSky was created to be a platform for free speech, but it has turned into a space for strict censorship and only allows certain political views.
  2. Users can be banned quickly for expressing unpopular opinions, showing that the platform may not truly support diverse ideas.
  3. The experience on BlueSky can be chaotic and filled with extreme viewpoints, making it feel unsafe for those with different beliefs.

One of YouTube's biggest channels is opening a massive production studio

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 1970 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media Entertainment Social media Influencers Content creation
  1. Alan Chikin Chow is opening a large 10,000-square-foot studio in Los Angeles to create content for platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. This shows how creators can compete with big Hollywood studios.
  2. His YouTube series, 'Alan's Universe', is really popular, getting millions of views with stories aimed at a young audience, especially girls. It combines K-drama themes with relatable storylines.
  3. Alan wants to expand 'Alan's Universe' into movies, TV shows, and more, showing that content creation is changing and that anyone with a good idea and the right skills can succeed.

Is Spotify the new YouTube?

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 2448 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Social media Streaming Content creation
  1. Spotify is introducing a program for creators that lets them earn money from video podcasts based on views, similar to YouTube. This gives creators more ways to make money beyond just ads.
  2. The number of users watching video podcasts on Spotify is growing quickly, showing that there's a chance for creators to attract audiences from YouTube.
  3. However, creators may face challenges in getting visibility on Spotify since it doesn't have an algorithm like YouTube to promote their content effectively.

How Substack's follow feature betrays its original mission

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 7643 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Social media Content creation Digital marketing User Experience
  1. The follow feature on Substack helps creators gain visibility but makes them lose ownership of their audience. This is a shift from Substack's original purpose of allowing creators to connect directly with their subscribers.
  2. Writers are now juggling between growing their follower counts and keeping their newsletter subscriptions growing. This split can make them feel pressured to create even more content, complicating their strategies.
  3. Substack's follow feature could confuse users, as some may think they are subscribed when they're only following. Educating users on this difference could help creators maintain stronger connections with their audience.

Is the red heart emoji MAGA? ❤️

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 3075 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Digital Communication Societal Trends Social media
  1. Some people now worry that using the red heart emoji means they're supporting a political party, especially after recent elections. This makes them think twice before using it.
  2. Emojis are evolving and can carry political meanings. Different emojis are being used by various groups to express their beliefs or identity online.
  3. People may feel anxious about certain emojis, like the red heart, due to changing contexts. Some are switching to different colors or types of hearts to avoid misunderstandings.

Algorithms are making political speech more extreme

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 3582 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political speech Social media Algorithms Communication Misinformation
  1. Algorithms are changing how politicians speak. They now exaggerate and hyperbolize to get more likes and shares, which can lead to more extreme views.
  2. Social media has replaced traditional broadcasting, making it harder for politicians to reach their audience directly. Now, they must adapt their messages for platforms that promote viral content.
  3. Facial recognition technology is increasingly used by governments to track and suppress protesters. This makes it riskier for people to express dissent, as they can be easily identified and punished.

The Biden Regime's "Censorship Police" Still Control Twitter/X

Emerald Robinson’s The Right Way • 2817 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Censorship Social media National Security Elections
  1. Some believe that the Biden administration has ongoing control over social media platforms like Twitter/X, keeping a level of censorship in place.
  2. There seems to be significant involvement from various government agencies in discussions about topics like election fraud on social media.
  3. Recent social media posts gained massive traction, with millions of impressions, highlighting a strong public interest in these controversial topics.

'Libbing out' is the latest irony-fueled coping mechanism

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 3403 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political trends Social media Democratic Party
  1. Young progressives are using a term called 'libbing out' to humorously embrace mainstream Democratic politics. It's a way for them to ignore their usual cynicism and feel optimistic, even if just for a little while.
  2. 'Libbing out' is partly a reaction to feeling overwhelmed by the state of politics. People want a break from all the negativity and are choosing to focus on a more comfortable political fantasy, even if it's temporary.
  3. While 'libbing out' helps people cope, it's also critiqued as a shallow approach that doesn’t address deeper political issues. Many believe that simply supporting Democrats won't solve bigger problems in the system.

Is there life after CNN? Chris Cillizza hopes so

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 623 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Media Impact Journalism Social media
  1. Getting fired can be really tough and emotional, and people can be unkind about it online. It’s normal to feel a mix of shame and anxiety after losing a job.
  2. After leaving CNN, Chris Cillizza started his own Substack newsletter and YouTube channel. He is trying to build a new career as an independent content creator and finds some success there.
  3. He misses the camaraderie of working in a newsroom but is learning that his new path can also provide fulfillment and revenue on his own terms.

We need to start recognizing stan psyops

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 4807 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Pop culture Media Literacy Social media Entertainment Political Discourse
  1. Stan accounts are really good at creating viral content to stir up strong emotions online. They use clever tactics to get people talking and sharing posts, often about celebrities.
  2. These stan tactics are not just in pop culture; they can affect politics too. Influencers and political accounts may use similar methods to manipulate public opinions and sway important discussions.
  3. It's important to recognize these strategies when we see them. Understanding how both entertainment and politics can be influenced by these tactics helps us navigate online content more wisely.

The woman behind the viral Texas breakup speaks

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 3941 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Social media Relationships Digital Communication Youth culture
  1. A musician named Jillian Lavin shared her painful breakup story, where she moved to Texas for her boyfriend, who later ended things with a note. Her video went viral, sparking lots of reactions online.
  2. Different social media platforms reacted differently to Lavin's story. People on Twitter were harsher, while those on Instagram showed more compassion and understanding.
  3. Lavin expressed that despite her viral fame, she'd give it up to be back with her ex-boyfriend, highlighting the emotional toll of the breakup and the public's reaction.

Technology to the Rescue!

Life Since the Baby Boom • 1844 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Artificial Intelligence Social media Communication Consumption Human behavior
  1. People have always believed that technology will solve human problems, from the telephone to AI. But no matter the advancements, our fundamental human nature remains the same.
  2. Many technologists share a faith in technology similar to religious beliefs, seeing it as a way to achieve progress and even redemption for humanity.
  3. Connecting people through technology, like social media, often leads to conflicts instead of harmony, reminding us that simply being connected doesn't guarantee understanding or peace.

The newest AI slop on Facebook exploits suburban fear

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 2746 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🕹 Technology AI Social media Digital Culture Online Trends Misinformation
  1. A recent Facebook post claiming that neighbors are egging cars over Halloween decorations is just a viral AI hoax. Many people believe it and react strongly, showing fear and distrust about their neighbors.
  2. AI-generated content is flooding social media and often incites extreme reactions, particularly fears related to neighborhood safety during events like Halloween.
  3. As AI content becomes more extreme, it might lead to worse stories and escalated fears about community issues, especially when it comes to kids and potential mischief.

Democracy dies on Instagram

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 4687 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political landscape Social media Content Moderation Public Health Election Impact
  1. Social media platforms like Meta's Instagram are limiting discussions about voting and elections. This can make it harder for people to access important information when they need it.
  2. Meta's content moderation is affecting political conversations and public awareness. Their choices may keep people uninformed and less likely to participate in elections.
  3. One in five Americans get their news from Instagram, showing how important this platform is for sharing information. If political content is downplayed, it could really change how people engage with their communities.

How an IG famous squirrel became a MAGA martyr

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 1970 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Social media Government Overreach Election Dynamics
  1. Peanut the Squirrel was a popular social media pet whose death sparked political outrage on the right. People are using his story to criticize government actions and rally support for Trump.
  2. The incident highlights the way online communities can create narratives that may not resonate outside their circles. Many people don't seem to care about this story in the wider world.
  3. As the election approaches, some see the focus on Peanut as a sign of desperation from Trump supporters. They may be missing more serious issues by fixating on a squirrel's fate.

The Snoopy fan account political war

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 6061 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Pop culture Social media Nostalgia Political Influence Art history
  1. A Snoopy fan account recently endorsed Donald Trump, which surprised many due to Snoopy's typically positive and innocent image. This sparked a lot of backlash from fans who felt it contradicted the character's values.
  2. Snoopy has become very popular among younger generations, leading to a surge in merchandise and online fandom. People love Snoopy for his creativity and joyful personality, making him a relatable figure.
  3. Many fan accounts are shifting to political messaging, showing how beloved characters can be used to spread different viewpoints. However, this can backfire if the message doesn’t match the audience's values, as seen with the backlash against the pro-Trump post.

#55. What Do Kids at a Center for Self-Directed Education Do on Their Smartphones?

Play Makes Us Human • 1136 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🚌 Education Child development Social media Mental health
  1. Kids in self-directed education tend to use their smartphones for creative and educational activities rather than scrolling on social media. They engage in things like music editing, game design, and learning through simulators.
  2. Many teens at the Macomber Center are not very interested in social media, often finding it unnecessary. They feel they have better things to do, like spending time with friends and exploring their interests.
  3. The overall happiness and fulfillment of these kids seem to come from their fulfilling social interactions, which reduces their reliance on social media to meet their social needs.

Trump vs Kamala: Who's winning online?

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 2179 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Social media Political strategy Public Opinion
  1. Trump is getting a lot more social media attention compared to Kamala, with nearly double the mentions. This shows he has a strong online presence.
  2. Most social media talks about the candidates are negative, but older voters seem to have a more positive view of Kamala. Younger people prefer Trump.
  3. Trump's approach focuses on longer content like podcasts, which helps him connect better with his audience. Kamala's shorter, snappy content may not build the same strong relationships.

Bluesky as the Ship of Theseus

The Future, Now and Then • 286 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Social media Digital Culture User Experience Online Communities Platform Development
  1. Bluesky is gaining popularity as an alternative to Twitter, attracting users unhappy with changes in X under Elon Musk. It's becoming a new hub for online conversations.
  2. The platform aims for a more user-friendly experience by limiting algorithms and promoting straightforward feeds. This makes it feel like the early days of Twitter.
  3. Bluesky focuses on community and real interactions, reducing toxic behavior from users aiming for outrage. This change may result in lower engagement metrics, but leads to a better overall environment.

The '#1 restaurant in Austin' doesn't exist

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 4120 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24
🍲 Food & Drink Social media AI Impact Food culture
  1. The '#1 restaurant in Austin' is actually fake and only exists on social media. People are liking and sharing photos of food that was created by artificial intelligence.
  2. Many restaurants now use AI to produce realistic food images, making it hard to tell what's real and what's not. This trend makes people more likely to believe that outlandish food items are real.
  3. The rise of AI-generated food content is blending with real food culture, leading to a situation where it’s tough to distinguish genuine culinary offerings from those that are just for social media attention.

Narcissistic Wounding Behind Media Disinformation On Liz Cheney, Trump Rally, And Vaccines

Michael Shellenberger • 1505 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Disinformation Public Trust Political Rhetoric Social media
  1. The media is increasingly deceptive, making false claims about events, like Trump's rally and vaccine issues. This creates distrust among the public.
  2. Legacy journalists seem angry about new voices on social media that challenge traditional narratives. They react negatively to this shift in authority.
  3. Accurate reporting is essential, but misinformation can spread quickly and impact public perception. It's important to verify facts before believing them.

The Ick List

Many Such Cases • 2877 implied HN points • 27 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Relationships Emotions Social media Gender Dynamics
  1. Desire can be confusing and change quickly. People might feel attracted to someone one moment and then completely turned off the next because of small things.
  2. The feeling called 'the ick' can stop attraction suddenly for many, especially women, making it hard for them to stay interested in someone for minor reasons.
  3. Labeling minor annoyances as 'icks' can lead to unrealistic expectations in dating. It's often better to relax and not take these little things too seriously.

Halloween has gone full brain rot

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 2597 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Internet culture Social media Holidays Festivals
  1. Halloween costumes are now often based on internet memes, reflecting how much online culture influences our lives. Instead of traditional costumes, many people dress as viral moments or characters from social media.
  2. The trend of meme costumes can create confusion and alienation at Halloween parties. Costumes that depend on obscure references can make it hard for people to connect and enjoy the holiday together.
  3. Despite some people wanting a return to classic costumes, meme costumes allow for more creativity and self-expression. They let us remember and reflect on our shared experiences in today's internet-driven world.

We Already Solved Subscription Fatigue

Default Wisdom • 151 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Social media Subscriptions Algorithms Content creation Digital economy
  1. Subscription models on social media can actually improve the user experience. They may create a better environment by encouraging more intentional use rather than endless scrolling.
  2. The problem isn’t subscriptions themselves, but the overwhelming number of individual subscriptions to small creators. Bundled options could make things simpler for users.
  3. Many people feel overwhelmed by how much they pay for subscriptions online. By making users think harder about what they subscribe to, it might lead to more careful choices.

Selling account names in the blue, blue skies

Conspirador Norteño • 28 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Social media Online Scams Data Analysis Internet culture
  1. Handle squatting is when people register social media handles to sell them later. Even though Bluesky allows custom domain names as handles, some still try to squat.
  2. Buying account names is risky and usually a bad idea. It's better to create your own accounts instead of getting them from spammers.
  3. Some recent accounts on Bluesky show repetitive bios and were created in batches, indicating possible spam activity. One such account even changed its bio to seem more legitimate.