The hottest Society Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

Stop speedrunning to a dystopia

The Intrinsic Perspective • 40345 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Critique Satire Technology Society Entertainment
  1. Big tech companies are doing shady things that can harm users, like creating fake music and using bots to engage with people. This shows a troubling trend toward prioritizing profit over real human connection.
  2. Kids' shows and adult films are being dumbed down to keep viewers engaged without paying full attention. This shift is making entertainment less meaningful and more mindless.
  3. There's a lack of strong critiques about how our media consumption is changing us, and we need more artists to call out these issues. Understanding the risks of being overly entertained is important to avoid a dystopian future.

What REALLY happened in Afghanistan?

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 37 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Journalism Afghanistan Taliban Society
  1. Habib Khan Totakhil witnessed the events in Afghanistan first-hand and shares those experiences. It's important to hear stories from people who lived through major changes, like the Taliban takeover.
  2. He emphasizes that we should support the Afghan resistance and not accept Taliban rule as normal. This helps us understand the ongoing struggles in Afghanistan.
  3. The role of journalism in conflict zones is crucial for revealing the truth about situations. Totakhil’s work highlights how important it is to share accurate information during times of war.

Anarcho-tyranny in the UK

Wrong Side of History • 360 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Law Justice Government Society International relations
  1. Confidence in British justice is very low right now. Many people feel the system is unfair and inconsistent.
  2. There's a common joke that British court cases often involve serious criminals getting light sentences while minor offenses lead to harsh punishments. This makes the justice system look ridiculous.
  3. Britain's reputation has changed over time. It was once seen as a leader in justice and freedom, but now some view it as a cautionary tale of mismanaged law and order.

The Secret Lives of Hair

The Global Jigsaw • 277 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Fashion Art Health Trade Society
  1. Hair holds deep personal significance for people, symbolizing identity, shame, and beauty. From keepsakes to wigs, hair affects how we see ourselves and how others see us.
  2. The global trade of human hair is complex and often hidden, relying on economic disparities between those who sell their hair and those who buy it. Much of this trade originates from poorer regions, with many women selling their hair for financial support.
  3. Wigs and hair products go through a long journey before reaching consumers, involving multiple countries and cultures. The authentic origins of hair can be misleading, highlighting the hidden stories and market dynamics behind beauty products.

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.
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The Saturday Selection, Vol. 57

Why is this interesting? • 301 implied HN points • 07 Jun 25
📰 News Politics Economics Culture Society
  1. There's a big change happening where fewer people prefer to have boys now, which is a positive shift.
  2. Some young people can live on just $432 a month in America if they're willing to move to a low-cost area like Massena, New York.
  3. Japan is dealing with a rice shortage, which prompted them to release a lot of rice from their emergency stockpiles to help manage the situation.

How ‘Puss in Boots' Reveals the Key to Human Happiness (Seriously)

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 158 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Film Philosophy Happiness Society Literature
  1. Appreciating what you have is key to happiness. Instead of focusing on what you don't have, think about the good things in your life.
  2. The characters in 'Puss in Boots' show that friendship and love matter more than wishes. Sometimes, you realize what you want is already around you.
  3. Envy not only makes you unhappy, but it can also lead you down a dark path. Being grateful helps you enjoy life better.

The great AI forecasting divide

Faster, Please! • 548 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🕹 Technology AI Forecasting Economics Innovation Society
  1. There is a debate about whether AI will change society in a big way or just a small one. Some experts think it could be revolutionary, while others see it as an evolution of technology.
  2. Economists base their predictions about AI on how past technologies have changed society. They might not expect the rapid advances that could happen sooner than anticipated.
  3. The discussion about AI's impact raises questions about our future and how quickly we might see changes in our lives and jobs because of intelligent machines.

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.

Clayton, Missouri

In My Tribe • 486 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🎭️ Culture Identity History Education Society Biography
  1. Sam Altman grew up in Clayton, Missouri, which is known for its strong educational system and smart students. The schools there were very competitive, and many students had high academic achievements.
  2. The author reflects on the importance of understanding different personalities in the startup world. Some talented individuals might be seen as difficult, but their unique contributions can be valuable.
  3. The history of Clayton and its changing demographics highlights issues like segregation. The neighborhood has transformed over the years, showing shifts in social dynamics and community identity.

Watching women cannibalize themselves for fun and profit

Men Yell at Me • 444 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🎭️ Culture Media Gender Society Religion Reality TV
  1. Reality shows like 'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' show the struggles women face in a patriarchal society. These women navigate personal relationships while dealing with societal pressures.
  2. Despite being successful, many women feel trapped by expectations at home and in their faith. They are the breadwinners, but still carry the bulk of household responsibilities.
  3. The show's drama reflects real issues many women face today, like work-life balance and societal judgment. Watching these stories can make it easier to question the larger systems affecting all women.

Why do I say thank you to Alexa?

Jeff Giesea • 558 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Artificial Intelligence Human-computer interaction Ethics Automation Society
  1. People are starting to treat AI assistants like they are human, saying things like 'please' and 'thank you' to them. This shows how technology is changing our social habits.
  2. As we interact more with machines, it can blur the lines between real human connections and automated responses. This might make us value genuine relationships less.
  3. Even though AI has great potential to help in many areas, it's important to be aware of how it affects our understanding of what it means to be human.

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.

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.

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.

Why did clothing become boring?

Res Obscura • 5754 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Fashion History Art Society Expression
  1. Clothing became more boring because it shifted from being handmade and unique to mass-produced and cheap. This change made individual items less valuable and less personal.
  2. The Industrial Revolution played a big role in making clothes more affordable, allowing people to own many outfits but reducing the distinctiveness of each piece.
  3. As social norms changed and people gained more freedom, they found other ways to express themselves that didn't rely on clothing, leading to a simpler style in fashion.

Eating Alone in Cars

Brands Mean a Lot • 30 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Society Lifestyle Media Food Advertising
  1. Many people eat alone in their cars, often during busy days. This shows how our lives can be hectic and lonely.
  2. Fast food ads highlight eating in cars as a source of joy, even though it's usually not how meals are traditionally enjoyed. It plays on the idea that people are seeking comfort in quick snacks while feeling disconnected.
  3. Society is moving towards individualism, where companies see opportunities in people's loneliness. Instead of seeking real connections, many find temporary happiness through fast food, which reflects a larger problem in our living conditions.

The ELYSIUM Proposal

Transhuman Axiology • 337 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🕹 Technology AI Philosophy Society Futurism Ethics
  1. The ELYSIUM proposal suggests creating unique personal utopias for everyone, where each person can design their ideal environment. These utopias would be guided by an ideal version of themselves, ensuring their choices lead to happiness and fulfillment.
  2. While individualized utopias sound great, there will be challenges regarding resources since they might be limited. People will need to negotiate how to share and allocate these resources without conflict.
  3. For this vision to come true, it's important to establish strong property rights and ensure people control AI. If that doesn't happen, there's a risk that society could fall apart or even face extinction due to potential AI dangers.

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

Singal-Minded • 544 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🕹 Technology AI Philosophy Programming Ethics 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.

Why Is the Tesla Cybertruck So Depressingly Ugly?

The Honest Broker • 30021 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Design Aesthetics Art Criticism Cultural Commentary Society
  1. The design of the Tesla Cybertruck is seen as ugly and intimidating, making it resemble a military vehicle rather than a car. This choice of design seems to prioritize power over aesthetic beauty.
  2. Many modern designs, including the Cybertruck, lack the nuances and curves that characterize beautiful art and architecture. Instead, they often appear harsh and cold, making them feel less welcoming.
  3. The trend towards ugly and aggressive designs reflects a cultural shift towards asserting power and dominance in society, which affects creativity and art negatively.

The whoral majority

Sex and the State • 38 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Morality Religion Society Identity
  1. Many people have a rigid view of morality based on what they were taught as children, which can create discomfort with new ideas.
  2. Prostitution, often viewed negatively, has existed throughout history and can actually provide financial independence and safety when decriminalized.
  3. The author questions the morality of organized religions, especially given their contradictions and failures, and believes that the perspectives of sex workers should be valued more.

What You Can Learn from Just Seven Pages by Hannah Arendt

The Honest Broker • 30719 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Humanism Technology Society Ethics History
  1. Hannah Arendt talks about how some people are so disconnected from reality that they want to escape earth. This shows a worrying trend in society's focus on technology over human connection.
  2. She warns that as we lean more on technology, we risk creating a world where machines control our lives. This could lead us to become helpless and slaves to our own inventions.
  3. Arendt believes that the more we focus on artificial things, the more we lose touch with meaningful, real-life experiences. This could make freedom feel empty and lead to a sense of loneliness in society.

The Divine Engineer of Ancient Sichuan

Chris Arnade Walks the World • 826 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture History Religion Tradition Philosophy Society
  1. Chengdu is a city that mixes modern life with traditions. Tourists can find panda-themed items everywhere and the city shows a blend of old and new.
  2. Li Bing is a significant figure in Chinese history for his engineering skills. He developed an ancient irrigation system that helped people manage floods and improve farming.
  3. Chinese heroes are often celebrated for serving the people rather than just fighting battles. Figures like Li Bing show how public service and engineering are valued in their culture.

Top Links 753 Front-running European exports. The American transfer state. Troll farm hierarchy & the economics of motor-racing.

Chartbook • 472 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Economics Governance Society International
  1. European exports are being closely watched, possibly for trends or economic implications. It's important to stay updated on how they impact global trade.
  2. The idea of an American transfer state likely refers to the financial support systems in place within the U.S. Understanding this can help in grasping economic dynamics.
  3. There's a mention of troll farms and their organizational structure, highlighting the complexities of online information and influence. This can affect how we view digital communication.

Glory days

Disaffected Newsletter • 1998 implied HN points • 15 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Society History Politics Identity Memory
  1. Some older people are still stuck in the past, thinking their youth and ideas from the 1960s still represent today's reality.
  2. Many friends love to share nostalgic stories about their past activism, but they sometimes seem more about reliving glory than promoting understanding.
  3. People who change their political views often feel pushed away by their former friends, showing that kindness fades when faced with disagreement.

Modern Magnificenza

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 133 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Architecture Philosophy History Society
  1. Our society is very focused on logical thinking, but we also need creativity and emotional understanding. It's important to balance both sides of our brains to have a fulfilling life.
  2. We are experiencing big shifts in power and wealth today, similar to what happened before the Renaissance. Wealthy individuals can lead to positive changes by funding beautiful, meaningful projects in their communities.
  3. Working on meaningful and beautiful projects can provide not just personal satisfaction but also benefit the community. This approach can help those feeling lost in today's fast-paced, tech-driven world.

Ask Me Anything (2/2025)

Astral Codex Ten • 7433 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Psychology Society Communication Art Philosophy
  1. Subscribers can ask questions during the AMA, but only they can comment on the responses. It's a way to engage the paid supporters more directly.
  2. Some questions won't be answered, like those asking for medical advice or trying to get a controversial statement. It's about keeping it respectful and on topic.
  3. The host plans to keep up with questions until they feel like stopping, so there's a willingness to engage as long as it's productive.

Evangelicals for Trump? It's Not About Religion

Steady • 28774 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Religion Society Polling Media
  1. Evangelicals support Trump not necessarily because of religion but for reasons like opposing abortion and LGBTQ+ rights.
  2. Despite Trump's personal controversies, many white evangelical Christians see him as a savior figure saving the country from perceived threats.
  3. There is a shift in evangelical priorities, with church attendance declining and political identity becoming more significant.

Nadia Asparouhova on antimemetics, nuclear mysticism, and scrolling

The Generalist • 1320 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy Art Literature Technology 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.

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.

The 6 New Rules of Communicating

The Honest Broker • 19582 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Communication Leadership Media Society Conversation
  1. People trust leaders more when they sit down and have casual conversations instead of standing up and giving speeches. It makes things feel more relaxed and real.
  2. Speaking with people instead of at them is important. Using everyday language and being informal makes communication more friendly and relatable.
  3. Storytelling and humor are better than just giving quick soundbites. People enjoy hearing real stories that connect with them on a personal level.

READING: Harriett Martineau Observes the Court of President Andrew Jackson in Washington DC in the Early 1830s

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 238 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History Government Society Culture Political theory
  1. Harriet Martineau's observations give a unique view of early 19th-century America, focusing on the gap between ideals and reality in politics.
  2. She highlights the diversity and complexity of Washington, D.C. society while also noting the tensions surrounding power and privilege.
  3. Martineau's critical perspective reveals both admiration for American democracy and concerns about exclusions and contradictions within it.

sunday extra mean pool

bad cattitude • 108 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Entertainment Society History
  1. The world can feel harsh and full of missed chances. It's important to recognize these feelings and acknowledge the challenges we face.
  2. Sometimes we need to take a step back and notice the things happening around us. This helps us stay aware of our experiences and struggles.
  3. Having a space to share these thoughts can be beneficial. Connecting with others helps us process what we feel together.

The Hero as Flexible Bureaucrat

Nothing Human • 60 implied HN points • 28 Jun 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Society Bureaucracy History Policy
  1. The hero figure has changed over time, and now it seems that a flexible bureaucrat who bends the rules can be seen as a modern hero, especially when their actions serve a human purpose.
  2. While strict bureaucracies can feel cold and unyielding, a more flexible approach allows for emotional connections and adaptability, which can lead to better outcomes for individuals.
  3. As technology advances, there's a concern that bureaucracies will become more efficient and powerful, but it's important to maintain flexibility in these systems to keep the human element alive.

The way we live in the United States is not normal

Changing The Channel • 33626 implied HN points • 29 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Healthcare Economics Culture Society
  1. In the United States, there is a sense of normalcy around high costs for education and healthcare, which contrasts with other countries where these are considered basic human rights.
  2. The social dynamics in the US make casual, spontaneous interactions with friends difficult to maintain, unlike in some other parts of the world where daily connections are more common.
  3. The increasing expenses, especially in housing, in the US are leading to a situation where even successful professionals find it challenging to afford a balanced life, pushing many towards burnout and dissatisfaction.

Curator

Castalia • 1758 implied HN points • 08 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Publishing Art Criticism Society
  1. Literary writing should introduce new ideas, provide honest experiences, or unleash creativity. Unfortunately, much of what's out there feels repetitive and lacks depth.
  2. There's a growing disconnect between writers and publishers, as publishers often prioritize profits over the integrity of literary work. This leads to a system that might not serve those truly passionate about literature.
  3. The publishing industry is shifting, and some men feel left out of the conversation. It's essential to remember that literature should be about artistic expression, not just political representation.

Hélène Finds Her Voice

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 414 implied HN points • 25 May 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Philosophy Technology Art Society
  1. The writer, Hélène, identifies as both human and supernatural, sharing a little about her life and mentioning the tension with her husband regarding her powers. It's a blend of reality and the mystical that makes her unique.
  2. There's a new book by JSR called _On Drugs_ that is getting positive reviews, and it seems to be creating a buzz as they start promoting it more widely. People are encouraged to pay attention to it and invite engagement.
  3. Hélène discusses the serious issue of how technology, like AI, can create barriers for certain groups, especially the elderly, highlighting it as a potential social problem that should be taken seriously rather than treated lightly.

the real lessons find a way

bad cattitude • 224 implied HN points • 31 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Racism Identity politics Society Policy
  1. Many believe that topics like racism and inequality have become more prominent in schools, causing division rather than unity. Some argue this creates a cycle of blame without solving the actual problems.
  2. The impact of the COVID pandemic opened parents' eyes to what their children were learning in schools. This has sparked increased scrutiny and questions about education content.
  3. Young people today have faced challenging times, which has made them more resilient. Many believe these experiences are preparing them to succeed in the future compared to previous generations.

Deep Fear!

Aether Pirates of the Matterium! • 18455 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Military Artificial Intelligence Energy Society Innovation
  1. Military analysts are afraid of the future and the rapid advancement of technology.
  2. Tech-minded individuals are seen as a threat by the military due to their knowledge and innovative capabilities.
  3. The release of Zero Point Technology to the public, especially techies, is a major concern for the military as it would shift power dynamics significantly.

Why the Term 'Porn Star' Should Go

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 218 implied HN points • 12 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Language Media Society Feminism Sexuality
  1. The term 'porn star' is misleading because most performers aren't actually stars, just regular actors in adult films.
  2. Using euphemisms like 'porn star' can distort the truth and make serious topics less clear, which isn't helpful.
  3. The glamorization of pornography through phrases like 'porn star' raises questions about how we view and talk about these actors in society.