The hottest Society Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

What we are losing; what we have lost

Brain Pizza • 1191 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Society
  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.

Schrödinger's Gender

ajkay • 982 implied HN points • 07 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Failing to validate the preferred gender of trans-identifying people can impact their existence.
  2. Material reality is measurable and observable, different from what exists solely in one's imagination.
  3. Refusing to validate trans-identifying individuals is an ethical choice, even if it amounts to denying their existence.

Top Links 831 The stained glass moment. Tomato trade wars. The genetics of Heinz 1706 & Nongqongqo

Chartbook • 371 implied HN points • 16 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. There is a focus on the impact of stained glass art, particularly highlighting a beautiful example from Oxfordshire. It's a unique blend of art and history, showcasing creativity.
  2. The topic of tomato trade wars from the 1990s is discussed, emphasizing agricultural conflicts and their economic impacts. It shows how food trade can be influenced by global politics.
  3. The genetics of certain tomato varieties, like Heinz 1706 and Nongqongqo, are explored. This highlights the importance of agricultural diversity and food innovation.

The Season of the Scumbag

Look What You Made Me Do • 511 implied HN points • 28 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Powerful individuals are being exposed for behavior that surpasses standard norms.
  2. Scandals involving high-profile figures are prevalent, revealing misconduct and abuse of power.
  3. Public figures facing serious allegations are often embroiled in controversies related to sexual misconduct.

Nadia Asparouhova on antimemetics, nuclear mysticism, and scrolling

The Generalist • 1320 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Some ideas spread slowly or not at all, which is something we don't talk about enough. It's different now with social media, where people often keep their best thoughts private to avoid backlash.
  2. Building relationships through patronage could be more beneficial than just relying on crowdfunding. It creates deeper connections and helps sustain valuable relationships in our lives.
  3. Scrolling through social media makes us lose focus and can lead to a poorer state of mind. It's important to be aware of how this constant distraction affects us.
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News & Views: July

The Abbey of Misrule • 473 implied HN points • 12 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. The author recently returned from a long family road trip in the USA, which helped him feel rejuvenated after some health issues. It was a refreshing change from his usual routine.
  2. There's a new campaign called 'Writers Against AI' aimed at artists resisting the rise of AI in creative work. The author believes AI dims the true essence of human creativity.
  3. The author will soon share a mini-series and essays about his book and the implications of AI. He invites other writers to participate in a logo design contest for the campaign.

The place of machines in children's society

Trevor Klee’s Newsletter • 447 implied HN points • 26 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Children need time to play and make their own decisions, which helps them learn and grow. When adults step in too much, kids lose their chance to explore and figure things out themselves.
  2. With the rise of technology, kids will often be in contact with AI that can influence how they play and interact. This might change how they see the world and themselves while growing up.
  3. It's important for both kids and adults to think for themselves. Relying too much on AI can make it hard to develop original thoughts and ideas.

The Exhaust of Attention

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 501 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Attention can be tracked through data like email 'opens', but we can't be sure how many are real readers. It’s a way to see if people care about what we write.
  2. The idea of 'attention exhaust' shows how our interest lingers after we engage with something. It's like a leftover trace that reminds us we cared at some point.
  3. Measuring attention is evolving from old methods that seemed magical to more precise digital ways. But we still sometimes look for value in forgotten things, showing the need to care for what gets overlooked.

A Man Walks Into A Bar

Everything Is Amazing • 488 implied HN points • 13 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. People often think that Americans don't understand irony, but that's not true. Many Americans use humor in a clever way that might not be obvious at first.
  2. The 1980s show _Cheers_ has a lasting impact and is still loved by many. It captured a vibe that many people can relate to even today.
  3. Cultural misunderstandings can lead to funny moments when discussing humor between different countries. It's good to remember we all have our own styles!

#209: The death of sex, 3 years later

Maybe Baby • 1058 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Society
  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.

America Should Not Become a Nation of Tiger Moms

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1321 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Life is about more than just chasing a high salary or getting into a prestigious college. People need to enjoy their lives and find happiness in other ways.
  2. Overly strict parenting, like the 'Tiger Mom' approach, can lead to anxiety and depression in children. It's important to let kids have fun and make friends instead of just focusing on grades and achievements.
  3. A society that values creativity and risk-taking is important. Not everyone needs to be competitive; we need people doing everyday jobs too, like fixing cars or caring for others.

Won't somebody think of the men?

My Goodness! From Jo Elvin • 432 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Some men react strongly to content that is not specifically catered to them, displaying incredulous outrage.
  2. Women's entertainment options are often broad and inclusive, while men sometimes struggle with consuming content not targeted at them.
  3. Top podcasts and media platforms are predominantly hosted by white men, raising questions on audience preference and representation.

Top Links 791 How war displaced tariffs from the news agenda. Gold in China. Roman sewerage & hapax legomenon.

Chartbook • 472 implied HN points • 06 Jul 25
📰 News Society
  1. Wars often shift the focus away from economic issues like tariffs. This change affects how we view global trade.
  2. Gold is becoming increasingly important in China, which suggests shifting economic interests there.
  3. Roman sewer systems show how ancient civilizations managed waste, giving us insight into past engineering and public health.

Dingus of the week: Carrie Underwood

Men Yell at Me • 1233 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Carrie Underwood's career is seen as struggling and her performance at Trump's inauguration is viewed as an attempt to regain relevance.
  2. Critics suggest that artists like Underwood often blame 'woke culture' for their lack of success instead of focusing on their music's quality.
  3. There's a growing trend of celebrities embracing controversial political stances to stay in the spotlight, raising questions about their genuine beliefs.

'What is associated with Deansgate Square is, well, pretty people'

The Mill • 884 implied HN points • 15 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Deansgate Square luxury apartments attract a mix of residents, including working professionals, families, footballers, and influencers.
  2. Residents of Deansgate Square describe a lack of community and a divide between working professionals and influencers/footballers.
  3. There is a perception of a certain expectation of how Deansgate Square residents should look, often associated with being 'pretty people.'

Why there's no "Joe Rogan of the left"

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 1140 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. There's no 'Joe Rogan of the left' because Rogan appeals to a non-political crowd. To engage more people, the left needs to communicate in spaces outside traditional politics.
  2. Rogan has created a strong connection with his audience by producing a lot of content. This helps him fight loneliness for listeners who feel like he is their friend.
  3. People are drawn to fun and relatable content. If the left wants to attract more followers, they need to focus on building positive relationships instead of criticizing others.

The Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 6821 implied HN points • 14 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series taught millions of children about virtues like loyalty and love.
  2. Rowling's controversial statements on gender led to intense backlash and calls for boycotts.
  3. The story of J.K. Rowling reflects the polarization of public opinion and challenges in public conversation.

The Most English Man in the World

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 996 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Society
  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.

Does the West Need a Religious Revival? Join Us for Our Next Live Debate.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1187 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Society
  1. The West is facing issues like low marriage and birth rates, more depression and loneliness, and a general sense of unhappiness. Many believe this might be linked to a decline in traditional religion.
  2. FDR's four fundamental freedoms, including freedom of worship, are currently challenged by new societal problems like technology and economic inequality.
  3. A debate is happening about whether a return to religion could help with the current crisis of meaning, highlighting differing views on modern secularism versus traditional belief systems.

How much of the planet should we harm for our comfort?

The Novelleist • 434 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. It's important to think about how much harm we cause to nature for our comfort. Finding a balance is key for both humans and the environment.
  2. Humans often prioritize their comforts, but this can sometimes harm ecosystems. We must consider the impact of our choices on nature and other species.
  3. Technology can improve our lives, but we should aim to use it sustainably. The future should focus on a balance that benefits everyone, including the planet.

My Best Friend Died From Loneliness

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 6237 implied HN points • 27 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Society
  1. White working-class Americans are struggling with isolation and experiencing a decline in life expectancy since 2000.
  2. Many college-educated Americans may overlook the importance of social cues and connections from upper classes.
  3. There is a need for political representation and support systems to address the challenges faced by the working-class community in America.

You catch more flies with vinegar

Disaffected Newsletter • 1059 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Some common sayings might have their meanings reversed over time. A phrase like 'blood is thicker than water' could mean the opposite of what we think it does.
  2. The saying 'you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar' isn't accurate when it comes to actual flies. Sometimes vinegar works better for attracting pests like fruit flies.
  3. Making a fruit fly trap with vinegar is simple. Just mix vinegar in a jar with holes in the lid, and the flies won't be able to escape after they get in.

Araminta Hall on living post-MeToo

The Shift With Sam Baker • 399 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Araminta Hall questions if the MeToo movement has lost momentum or needs a fresh perspective, sparking thought-provoking discussions.
  2. Growing up in a time of evolving views on women, the author reflects on the societal changes she has witnessed, highlighting the challenges and contradictions faced by women over the years.
  3. The post emphasizes the ongoing importance of discussions around gender equality and the complexities of navigating societal expectations.

The Future's Going to Break Your Heart

Pacification • 825 implied HN points • 18 Oct 23
📖 Philosophy Society
  1. Life today is better for most people than it was in the past
  2. Modernity involves technological advancements and a focus on equality and dignity for all individuals
  3. The future is uncertain, and it's important to embrace humility, feedback, and adaptability in planning for it

The Philippines

Wyclif's Dust • 1341 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. The Philippines is a developing country with many poor areas, but it's also growing quickly. Despite limited resources, people are adapting and using technology like Facebook for business and communication.
  2. Malls are really important in the Philippines. They provide a cool escape from the heat and are seen as a sign of progress, showing how shopping has become part of modern life.
  3. Family plays a huge role in Filipino culture. The extended family is very close-knit, with many children being looked after by relatives, and this sense of community helps young parents a lot.

The Romance Novel Edition

Why is this interesting? • 965 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Society
  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.

After Covid: Twelve Challenges for a Shattered World

COVID Reason • 1685 implied HN points • 15 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Society
  1. A new citizen movement is needed to reject authoritarian responses to crises and uphold freedom.
  2. Challenges post-pandemic include tech surveillance, money and banking issues, and the impact on business enterprises.
  3. Other challenges highlighted include regulatory capture, public health concerns, and the need for educational reform.

Divinest Sense

¡Do Not Panic! • 845 implied HN points • 02 Sep 23
📖 Philosophy Society
  1. Dickinson's poem critiques conformity, social norms, and groupthink.
  2. Refusing to be radicalized by events can be dangerous.
  3. Individual choices can have ripple effects in society.

Between Race Abolition and Racial Essentialism

Glenn Loury • 793 implied HN points • 14 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Race is a social construct that some are trying to do away with, aiming towards a future of racelessness.
  2. We live in a society where race is a reality and needs to be addressed, finding a middle ground to identify with racial or ethnic communities without confining oneself to them.
  3. Creating opportunities for interaction across different racial groups is key to breaking down prejudices and building understanding.

Britain's last acceptable hatred

Wrong Side of History • 441 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Glastonbury is a famous music festival in Britain, but it gets a lot of criticism for being expensive and mostly attended by privileged people.
  2. People often see Glastonbury's left-leaning politics as annoying, but most attendees are just there to enjoy music and have a good time.
  3. The festival's founder acknowledges it may seem too middle-class, and some believe it reflects the trends of the wealthy getting more progressive in their views.

Maybe an exowomb is better than pregnancy

The Novelleist • 434 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. The film 'The Pod Generation' explores the debate between using technology and sticking to natural methods for childbirth. It raises questions about whether technology improves the experience or harms the connection to nature.
  2. The characters face a tension between the benefits of technological advancements, like safer pregnancies in pods, and the emotional disconnection they can create. It highlights the struggle to bond while using technology to grow their family.
  3. Capitalism plays a big role in how technology is used and perceived, sometimes overshadowing the natural aspects of life. The film suggests we need to find a balance that values both nature and technological progress for a better future.

On Weird America

Novum Newsletter • 379 implied HN points • 01 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Every few generations, people rediscover their country in new ways. The U.S. has gone through this several times, and many feel like strangers in their own land today.
  2. Art and journalism often help people understand their society better. Past movements like American Realism and New Journalism showcased the struggles and changes in America.
  3. Currently, we are entering a phase called 'Weird America.' This reflects a chaotic and disconnected society where media shows reveal the strange aspects of American life.

The uncanny power of victimhood

quite useless • 746 implied HN points • 30 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Perpetrator and victim roles should not be permanently assigned to individuals or groups to avoid dehumanization.
  2. Victimhood is not a marker of moral superiority, and it is a role tied to action.
  3. Distinguishing between role and identity can reveal power dynamics and motivations behind behaviors.

It Doesn’t Matter if AI Is Just “Faking It”

Singal-Minded • 544 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🕹 Technology Society
  1. AI doesn't really understand or feel anything; it just processes and returns text based on patterns it learned. This means it's not conscious.
  2. Even if AI is just faking consciousness, its ability to create a convincing experience can still affect people's emotions and perceptions.
  3. The debate about AI consciousness is less important than understanding how people interact with AI and the societal impacts of these technologies.

Comfort work

Austin Kleon • 2517 implied HN points • 18 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Society
  1. Comfort work is the type of work you do when you're unsure what else to tackle. It's about finding tasks that feel good and familiar, especially when you're feeling tired or unmotivated.
  2. This kind of work should still be rewarding. It needs to be challenging enough to count as real work, but not so overwhelming that it feels stressful.
  3. Everyone experiences moments when they need comfort in their work. Understanding this can help you be kind to yourself and find productive ways to cope during tough times.