The hottest Society Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

Only fools think Elon is incompetent

Noahpinion • 54000 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Public Figures Media Analysis Society
  1. Elon Musk is highly intelligent and has proven his capabilities through successful companies like SpaceX and Tesla. People underestimate him at their own risk.
  2. Real-world skills, like building organizations and inspiring teams, are more important than test scores for success in business. Elon excels in these areas.
  3. Criticism of Elon often stems from jealousy or misunderstanding of his talents. Just calling him 'dumb' won't change the reality of his achievements.

RegenNarration

Rushkoff • 59 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Society Philosophy Environment Art Wellness
  1. Sometimes healing takes time, and doing nothing can be the best way to let systems fix themselves. It's okay to pause and wait for change.
  2. Allowing ourselves to feel fear or sadness can help us transform those feelings into something positive. It's important to process our emotions instead of ignoring them.
  3. Voting is a basic tool to influence change, even if the candidates aren't perfect. It's better to choose someone who cares about important issues like nature and human rights.

This is How We Fall Out of Love with the World

Culture Study • 12118 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Society Politics Education Work
  1. Art and essential services matter, but they often lack sufficient public funding in America. Many believe value only comes from profit, which overlooks the importance of community support.
  2. Cuts to public services mean that everyday Americans are forced to shoulder more costs. This creates a fragile system that risks collapse during tough times, like the pandemic.
  3. Passion jobs, where people work for love rather than money, are at risk as public funding declines. This leads to burnout and instability for those who dedicate themselves to these important roles in society.

We Live Like Royalty and Don’t Know It

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 129 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Society Education Values History Ideas
  1. Many people don't realize how much they benefit from complex systems that provide food, water, and healthcare. It's important to understand these systems to appreciate the comforts we have.
  2. Events like weddings showcase how ordinary people can enjoy luxuries that were once only for the wealthy. This shows a change in how we live compared to the past.
  3. Understanding and maintaining our modern systems is crucial. If we ignore them, we risk losing the conveniences we've come to expect in daily life.

How We Lost the Flow

The Honest Broker • 31317 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Philosophy Psychology Society
  1. The flow state is a special experience where everything feels easy and natural, like playing music or sports. It's when you lose track of time and feel completely engaged.
  2. Technology and businesses have taken the idea of flow and turned it into a way to make money, which can lead to negative effects on our well-being. Things like social media and gambling can manipulate our desire for that flow state.
  3. There are many ways to experience flow outside of technology, like dancing, gardening, or spending time in nature. These activities can make us feel fulfilled without giving our attention and energy to profit-driven platforms.
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The Most English Man in the World

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 996 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Travel Politics Media Society History
  1. The author humorously explores British culture and customs while visiting London for the first time. They joke about misunderstandings, like 'mushy peas' being a real food and the confusion around British geography.
  2. The author learns about Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, a prominent British politician, who is described as very traditional. They explain how he became a 'sir' through a special honor from a former prime minister.
  3. The article highlights the author's curiosity about British life and their playful approach to learning about a different culture through funny anecdotes and questions.

How to Achieve Immortality

The Honest Broker • 24901 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature History Philosophy Society
  1. In the past, people achieved immortality through great deeds that served others, but today, many seek it through extreme measures like blood transfusions and body freezing. This shift shows a focus on self rather than community.
  2. Art can offer a different type of immortality than technology can. Famous works can keep someone's memory alive far longer than any tech billionaire can, even if they chase superficial forms of eternal youth.
  3. The modern obsession with quick fame through social media contrasts with the lasting impact of art and good deeds. While many focus on fleeting popularity, true legacy comes from cultural contributions that endure over time.

In the Light of Victory, He Himself Shall Disappear

The Intrinsic Perspective • 11333 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🕹 Technology AI Employment Innovation Society Economy
  1. AI is changing the job landscape quickly. Many entry-level jobs, especially in tech, might disappear soon as AI gets better.
  2. Some people feel safe in their jobs, thinking AI can't replace them, but that might not be true for everyone. Many workers could end up feeling like outdated lamplighters.
  3. Progress often comes with loss. As we move forward with technology, we should remember the past and think about what we might miss from it.

The Romance Novel Edition

Why is this interesting? • 965 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Entertainment Society Gender Economics
  1. Romance novels offer escapism and predictable happy endings that many readers enjoy during tough times. They have become popular among diverse groups of women, from stay-at-home moms to college students.
  2. The romance genre focuses on female pleasure and sexuality while challenging societal views about women's desires. It mixes fun storytelling with important cultural discussions.
  3. Romance novels are a big business, outselling even the Bible. Many readers are not just fans—they are part of a community that engages with the genre through discussions, fan fiction, and events.

The Price of Mass Amusement

After Babel • 3023 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media Technology Communication Society Philosophy
  1. Instant information from TV and social media can be misleading. It distracts us from understanding the real world and makes us think we know things when we actually don't.
  2. Mass amusement has replaced deep thinking and discussions. We're more focused on having fun than on meaningful conversations or learning.
  3. Today's media not only entertains us but also shapes our thoughts and connections. We need to be careful about how we engage with these technologies so we don't lose our ability to think critically.

Male Workplace Subordination Is the Behavioral Sink

72 Degrees North • 59 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Capitalism Society Gender Economics Labor
  1. Many people today feel overwhelmed by the pressure of competition in the workplace, leading to a sense of hopelessness. This competition affects their self-esteem and can cause them to feel unappealing and worthless.
  2. Some argue that men are suffering more under current economic systems, feeling subordinate and less attractive due to their work situations. This can lead to a broader crisis that affects relationships and family life.
  3. There is a belief that our society needs to change the way we view work and success. Instead of relying on old structures that don't support everyone, we should create a system where all individuals contribute to and support each other.

The Hard Road to Responsibility

Glenn Loury • 317 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Society Responsibility Comedy Podcasting
  1. It’s tough to ask people from struggling communities to take responsibility when they face so many challenges. We need to find a way for them to improve their situations without excusing harmful behavior.
  2. Having discussions about individual responsibility can be complicated, especially when many feel stuck in difficult circumstances. We should aim for a society that encourages better choices.
  3. While there are jokes about selling out for money, staying true to one's beliefs and values is important. It's better to hold onto integrity than to compromise for financial gain.

Australia's Rule by Bureaucrat

Kvetch • 74 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Bureaucracy Policy Society Culture
  1. Australia has a strong bureaucratic system that heavily influences its immigration policies. This is seen in how immigration management became more of a technocratic puzzle than a democratic discussion.
  2. The surge in international students has led to increased migration, but it has also affected the standards at universities, making them more about profit than education.
  3. Cultural integration is a challenge as Australia becomes more multicultural, with many migrants clustering in their own communities rather than blending into a cohesive society.

I Told You: Chaos is Coming

Freddie deBoer • 17481 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Violence Ideology Society Philosophy Psychology
  1. People are feeling lost and disconnected in today's world, which can lead to dangerous behaviors like violence. This sense of emptiness makes some look for meaning in extreme actions.
  2. Many young people are struggling to find real meaning in life, and they might turn to historic ideologies that feel hollow or even joke-like. They want something to hold on to, but everything feels lightweight.
  3. The solution may lie in connection and community. If people can reach out and support each other, there might be hope for a better future, but this is not an easy path.

#209: The death of sex, 3 years later

Maybe Baby • 1058 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Society Politics Technology Media
  1. Culture has become less about genuine connection and more about digital interactions, which can feel unfulfilling. Many people are missing out on real emotional experiences that come from touch and presence.
  2. There's a growing tension in politics where both the left and right have problems engaging with different viewpoints. Instead of understanding each other, they often stick to their own narratives, which doesn't help anyone.
  3. Technology has taken over many aspects of life, making interactions feel faster but less meaningful. While some tech is helpful, it often alienates people from each other, making real connections harder to find.

CONFEDERATE MOUND VISIT

THREE SEVEN MAFIA • 819 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
💾 History Civil War Memory Monuments Culture Society
  1. Visiting historical sites can help us understand the past better. It's important to learn about different perspectives from history.
  2. Reflecting on events from history allows us to consider their impact on today's society. Understanding our history shapes who we are.
  3. Talking about historical figures and events helps keep the conversation going. It helps us engage with one another about common topics in our shared history.

Guest post: The Global IQ Debate: A Modest Contribution From A Resident African

Wood From Eden • 9312 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Intelligence Society Education Identity Racism
  1. Living in a society with a low average IQ can shape people's abilities and social structures differently than in higher IQ societies. Even with low IQ scores, many can still function well in their communities, often adapting culturally.
  2. Education systems may favor rote learning over creativity, so high IQ individuals might struggle in these environments. The focus is often on memorization rather than understanding concepts, leading to discrepancies between IQ and academic performance.
  3. Cultural values and personality traits can impact societal progress. In places where tribal or religious affiliations dominate, collective efforts toward improvement can be hindered by corruption and a lack of scientific reasoning.

Martin Gurri: What Does It Mean to Be a Man?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2290 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Identity Masculinity Philosophy Society Values
  1. Men have always been seen as protectors and providers, expected to show courage and strength. This means that traditionally, a man's role is to defend what is valued in society.
  2. In today's world, the question of what men protect against has changed. Instead of physical dangers, it often involves more abstract threats like emotional well-being and societal issues.
  3. The role of men is evolving, reflecting a shift from direct physical protection to navigating modern complexities, where the state often takes on the responsibility for basic needs like food and safety.

Two stupid facts that rule the world

Experimental History • 27646 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Internet Writing Opinions Society Communication
  1. There are many people in the world, and they are all different. It's impossible to please everyone, and that's okay.
  2. Getting hate or criticism is normal when you reach many people. Instead of worrying, realize it's just part of the game.
  3. You don't need a huge audience to succeed. Even a small group of passionate readers can make a big impact.

What Sexual Liberation Really Looks Like

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1794 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Feminism Sexuality Society Gender Relationships
  1. Hookup culture mainly helps men while often making things harder for women. It's important to recognize how this affects women's experiences.
  2. Casual sex isn't necessarily a good thing for women, and deeper connections with partners can lead to more fulfilling relationships.
  3. Not all sexual desires should be acted on, and women don't have to participate in hookup culture just because it's popular.

How We Decide Where To Build Our Lives

Culture Study • 4437 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Community Living Society Identity Mobility
  1. People often seek ideal living places that balance many factors, but what really matters is how close you are to people you already know. It's about community, not just a checklist of features.
  2. Building a community takes time and effort, so living in a place that helps you connect with others is essential. This could mean less pressure from work or parenting demands.
  3. When discussing places to live, it's important to share personal experiences and keep an open mind. Everyone's needs are different, and what works for one person might not work for another.

Y’a des trucs de blancs et des trucs de noirs

L'Atelier Galita • 179 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Identity Race Society Humor Traditions
  1. Some activities or preferences are often seen as belonging to specific racial or cultural groups. For example, dressing up for parties might seem like a 'white thing' to some.
  2. Certain behaviors, like having a picnic on the ground or wearing outdoor pants in bed, can also be perceived as more common among white people.
  3. These observations can be surprising and not universally accepted, showing how cultural differences shape our views on everyday activities.

Cities are routers in network society

Subconscious • 988 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Media Society Urbanism Technology Communication
  1. Cities act like routers in our connected world, linking people and resources together. They help create community and make life easier.
  2. Internet and networks change how power and information flow. Unlike old broadcast systems that focus on a center, networks spread connections widely.
  3. With new technology, many people are becoming digital nomads. They can work from anywhere, making cities hubs for gatherings and shared experiences again.

Calling the Lonely Charts Club!

Chartbook • 801 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Arts Literature Relationships Society Politics
  1. There's a fun initiative where people can create personal ads looking for partners who share similar interests, especially in political economy and culture.
  2. The project encourages creativity in writing these ads, making them unique and tailored to individual preferences.
  3. People can submit their ads anonymously through a Google form, making it easier to express themselves.

All Men Want to Be Heroes

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1316 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Society Identity Narratives Traditions Masculinity
  1. Men often seek opportunities to feel heroic and valued in society. It's important for communities to create situations where they can step up and make a difference.
  2. Experiences shared around communal spaces, like bars, highlight the desire for connection and action among men. These moments can lead to camaraderie and support among peers.
  3. Society's perception of masculinity can impact how men express their emotions and take action. Allowing them space to be heroes can lead to healthier relationships and communities.

Tuesday Thread: The Best Corners of Reddit

Culture Study • 1833 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Internet Community Society Social media Trends
  1. Reddit has many unique and specific communities that allow for thoughtful sharing and discussions. You can find advice and feedback that suits your interests.
  2. While Reddit is not perfect and can have its issues, it generally has good moderation that helps keep conversations on track.
  3. The dedication of many Reddit users often leads to valuable interactions and support within the platform's various subreddits.

Elon Musk, Ashley St. Clair, and the New Moral Majority

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 996 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conservatism Influencers Society Family Media
  1. Elon Musk reportedly has 13 children with four different women, making him a father many times over.
  2. Ashley St. Clair announced she had a child with Musk, which adds to his growing family.
  3. Despite Musk's personal life being quite public, conservative Republicans seem to be less critical about his situation.

The Pot of Gold at America’s Western Edge

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2309 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Society History Travel
  1. California is seen as a shining example of America’s optimism and adventurous spirit. Its landscapes are diverse and beautiful, capturing the hearts of many.
  2. The state represents a journey of hope and discovery for pioneers, marked by the promise of wealth and a better life. Many believe the history of California reflects the core values of the entire nation.
  3. From its rich agricultural roots to modern technological advances, California's success story symbolizes the potential for achievement and progress that inspires people everywhere.

Every Story is a Degrowth Story!

Breaking Smart • 101 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Society History Philosophy Language Environment
  1. There are three main forces affecting our world: internet nomads, artificial intelligence, and climate change. Each of these will impact our lives in different ways over the next 10 to 15 years.
  2. Internet nomads, like political groups using social media, are likely to peak first and create short-term chaos, but may not last long-term due to their inability to build stable systems.
  3. AI will evolve quickly as technology improves and becomes more common, which might lead to bigger changes in society, while climate change will pose significant challenges, affecting everyday life in profound ways.

The familiar loneliness of the Kinetoscope

Res Obscura • 4510 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media History Art Technology Society
  1. The 2020s and the 1890s share many similarities, like protectionism and social division. People from both eras worry about advancing technology taking away jobs.
  2. The Kinetoscope, a one-person movie viewing device, represents a kind of loneliness in technology. It mirrors how today's technology often isolates us despite being connected.
  3. Edison's decision to focus on the Kinetoscope instead of larger audience devices highlights a trend toward personal, individual experiences in media. This shift continues with modern technology, where we consume content alone.

The Mafia State

The Chris Hedges Report • 575 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Economy Corruption Environment Society
  1. The current economic system is leading to great inequality, where the rich get richer while many others suffer. This creates a 'mafia state' that prioritizes the wealthy and exploits the rest.
  2. The degradation of environmental and social protections is harmful to everyone. Decisions being made today are damaging the planet and the well-being of many people.
  3. Reforming this system is not enough; systemic change is needed. Collective action and new ideas for social structure can help address these deep-rooted issues.

The beautiful rebirth of Dresden (1)

Wrong Side of History • 356 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
💾 History War Architecture Culture Reconstruction Society
  1. Dresden experienced devastating bombing in February 1945, leading to significant loss of life and destruction of its beautiful architecture. It was once called the 'Florence on the Elbe' due to its stunning structures.
  2. The city's recovery after the war was slow, with many buildings left in ruins rather than rebuilt immediately. Some important landmarks were saved, but much of the city's true charm faded during this time.
  3. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, efforts began to restore Dresden, including the famous Frauenkirche. This restoration symbolized healing and reconciliation between nations, showcasing the enduring spirit of the city.

Two Faces of Modernity

News from Uncibal • 656 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Modernity Enlightenment Government Society Human experience
  1. Modernity has both helped and hurt humanity. While it has brought material improvements like electricity and medicine, it has also led to government systems that might control every aspect of our lives.
  2. The problems we face today, like economic issues and government overreach, are partly a result of modern ideas from the Enlightenment. Simply going back to those ideas won't solve our problems.
  3. Many debates today focus on how the state should act in the world, often pushing for more government control instead of less. We may need a new way of thinking that goes beyond modernity to find real solutions.

Gaslit Nation

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 13645 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Politics Government Public Policy Media Society
  1. Many people are frustrated with confusing news and feel like they're being manipulated by those in power. It seems authorities are not being honest with the public.
  2. The term 'Gaslit Nation' suggests that citizens feel deceived and misled about important issues. Trust between the public and officials is eroding.
  3. There's a sense that sensational stories are distracting people from real problems. People want clearer communication from their leaders and more transparency.

#207: The Cringe Matrix

Maybe Baby • 2194 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Society Media Celebrity Self-help Identity
  1. Cringe can come in different forms, like wholesome, clueless, train wreck, and malevolent. Each type reflects a mix of awareness and sincerity.
  2. Not all actions that break social norms are cringe-worthy, but knowing your own cringe can help you avoid being too out of touch.
  3. When sharing personal thoughts online, it's important to stay sincere and aware to avoid falling into the trap of inauthenticity.

It’s okay NOT to talk about politics

Civic Renaissance with Alexandra Hudson • 299 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Discourse Civility Relationships Society
  1. It's perfectly fine to avoid political discussions. There are many other topics that can keep conversations lively and enjoyable without politics.
  2. If someone brings up politics too often, it's okay to change the subject. Refreshing conversations can help strengthen relationships.
  3. Choosing civility and kindness in discussions is more important than focusing solely on political views. Focusing on shared interests can help maintain harmony in relationships.

Is There a Crisis of Seriousness?

The Honest Broker • 43884 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art Media Philosophy Society Technology
  1. Seriousness in society is fading, with many things now focused on being entertaining rather than meaningful. This shift makes it hard for people to expect anything authentic.
  2. The rise of technology has made it easier to create fake experiences, from movies to online interactions. Many people struggle with knowing what is real anymore.
  3. There is a growing desire for more genuine, serious engagement in life. People are starting to reject the fake and are seeking deeper connections and authenticity.

What we are losing; what we have lost

Brain Pizza • 1191 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Society Culture History Philosophy
  1. We are losing touch with important aspects of our lives that used to matter a lot. It's like taking for granted things that shaped our experiences.
  2. The world feels like it's moving really fast nowadays, and it can be hard to keep up. This speed makes us miss even more of what we used to value.
  3. Reflecting on changes in our lives can help us understand what we've lost and might find ways to reconnect with those things. Taking a moment to think about it can be helpful.

Dawn Davenport Lives

Disaffected Newsletter • 1398 implied HN points • 23 Sep 24
🎭️ Culture Art Society Identity Media Fashion
  1. There are moments when people might embody characters or attitudes from the past, which can feel surreal. This can show how different styles, like the drag queen persona, still influence today's culture.
  2. Some individuals may present themselves as proud or fulfilled but are struggling inside. It's important to recognize that appearances don't always reflect true feelings.
  3. There are concerns about how certain lifestyles and views may negatively impact younger generations. This can lead to a sense of urgency for change in societal attitudes.