The hottest Wisdom Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Philosophy Topics

The Illegible Real

What Is Called Thinking? • 53 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Knowledge Epistemology Wisdom Education Metaphysics
  1. Tacit knowledge, or understanding gained from experience, is very important and can't always be explained by rules or theories. It's like how a farmer knows their land or a musician feels the right moment to improvise.
  2. The world often values what can be measured and categorized, but this can miss the deeper, lived knowledge that guides real-life decisions. There's more to learning than just reading books or following formal education.
  3. In a future filled with data and technology, the ability to mix both formal knowledge and experiential wisdom will be really valuable. It's important to recognize the strengths and limitations of both types of knowledge.

The Truth of Myths

Polymathic Being • 70 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Mythology Wisdom Spirituality Tradition Literature
  1. Myths can hold deep truths and meanings, even if they aren't literally factual. They often reflect universal human experiences and insights.
  2. Understanding myths helps us confront our own flaws and aspirations through archetypes. Stories from different cultures teach us about balancing different aspects of our nature.
  3. Rather than seeking to prove myths as factual, we should appreciate their wisdom. They offer insights that can guide us in our everyday lives, revealing lessons that have been learned over time.
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The Queen of all Virtues 👑

The Commonplace • 1277 implied HN points • 17 Oct 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Virtues Wisdom Spiritual growth Personal Reflection Decision-making
  1. Prudence is the queen of all virtues because it guides our actions and helps us make good decisions.
  2. The four cardinal virtues are prudence, fortitude, temperance, and justice, providing a foundation for a moral life.
  3. Cultivating prudence involves thinking, making a choice, and taking action, leading to wise decision-making in everyday life.

Confucius Says “lol, lmao”

The Upheaval • 2026 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
📖 Philosophy Governance Trust Leaders Wisdom History
  1. According to Confucius, the basics of governance consist of having enough armaments, food, and the trust of the common people.
  2. Confucius emphasizes that the trust of the people is the most crucial element for a state to stand, even above food and armaments.
  3. The modern political leaders seem to have forgotten these fundamental principles, failing to prioritize security, defense, and the trust of the common people.

The Ten Principles of Win-Win

Win-Win • 319 implied HN points • 02 Apr 24
📖 Philosophy Wisdom Ethics Mindset Collaboration
  1. The world has plenty to offer, so thinking there's not enough can hold you back. Focus on abundance and opportunities instead of scarcity.
  2. Life is always changing, so it's important to be flexible and adaptable. Sticking to rigid ideas can make it hard to enjoy the journey.
  3. Working together can create win-win situations. Instead of just looking out for yourself, think about how you can benefit others too.

Seek the desert and hear its voice

Jeff Giesea • 319 implied HN points • 24 Apr 24
🚌 Education Wisdom Technology Philosophy Self-governance Literature
  1. The desert symbolizes a place for deep reflection and self-discovery, helping individuals to gain wisdom. Spending time away from distractions can foster personal growth and understanding.
  2. Wisdom is important for navigating modern challenges, especially with advances in technology like AI. We need to combine technological progress with a focus on wisdom to ensure it serves humanity well.
  3. Institutions that promote wisdom, like Deep Springs College, show how education can blend hard work and learning. Investing in wisdom is crucial for developing future leaders who can guide society.

Three wise men talk about wisdom and power.

The Joyous Struggle • 355 implied HN points • 11 Dec 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Wisdom Power Conversation Reflection
  1. The conversation discussed how our capacity for wisdom at a small scale contrasts with the large-scale problems we face
  2. There was a reflection on the different perspectives of the three speakers when discussing world issues
  3. The importance of recognizing the interconnectedness of different aspects like society, soul, and systems when bringing about changes

Thinking for Ourselves: The Good Life and the Art of Critical Thinking

Humanities in Revolt • 359 implied HN points • 10 Nov 23
🚌 Education Critical Thinking Wisdom
  1. Living a good life involves more than just acquiring material possessions; it requires good thinking and the practice of critical thinking
  2. Critical thinking is a skill that requires intentional development through practice, study, and conscious effort
  3. Critical thinking goes beyond intelligence and involves ethical considerations, reasoning, and striving for wisdom rather than just seeking knowledge

What Is Grandmotherly Wisdom?

Grandmotherly Wisdom • 353 implied HN points • 19 Apr 23
📖 Philosophy Wisdom Life Humanity Morality Generations
  1. Grandmotherly Wisdom emphasizes the importance of understanding our connection to past generations and shaping a better future for those to come.
  2. It encourages finding beauty in everyday moments and the value of personal care, attention and shared experiences.
  3. It involves recognizing the collective effort needed for personal growth, building strong communities, and taking responsibility for creating a positive impact in the world.

The heart of awareness

Silentium • 199 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Wisdom Meditation Enlightenment Sacred Texts
  1. The Ashtavakra Gita is an ancient classic of Advaita Vedanta literature, focusing on a dialogue between King Janaka and the Sage Ashtavakra.
  2. Many spiritual figures, including Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Ramana Maharshi, and Mooji, consider the Ashtavakra Gita to be profound and enlightening.
  3. The Ashtavakra Gita is described as containing all essential teachings, a source of truth, simplicity, and depth to contemplate and meditate upon.

My Cup Runneth Over

Investing 101 • 46 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Beliefs Wisdom Learning Knowledge Decision-making
  1. It's really important to figure out what you believe and why you believe it. By understanding your beliefs, you can make better decisions in life.
  2. Learning isn't just good for personal growth; it's also important for keeping a free society. When people are informed, they can make better choices as citizens.
  3. When exploring ideas, try to do so based on your own research instead of just following popular trends. This way, you can discover unique insights that others might overlook.

Random Thoughts #11: Nothing Lasts Forever!

Spyderdoc Newsletter • 19 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Wisdom Mindfulness Life lessons Self-help
  1. Life has its ups and downs, but tough times always pass. It's important to stay calm and keep pushing forward.
  2. Hard work usually pays off, and positive thinking can help you overcome challenges. Focus on yourself and what you can control.
  3. Nothing lasts forever, so enjoy the good moments and keep a positive attitude, even when times are tough.

The Cave of Consensus is Collapsing

What's Important? • 20 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Consciousness Spirituality Wisdom Reality Transformation
  1. The Cave of Consensus is where we learn common knowledge safely. However, focusing only on known facts can limit our growth.
  2. Outside this cave lies the Cavern of Consciousness, where we explore deeper topics like spirituality and the unknown. This space can be intimidating but also incredibly transformative.
  3. Leaving the Cave allows us to see everything differently and tap into our creativity. It's a space full of potential and freedom, unlike the restrictions of the Cave.

📚Salon: Reading for Pleasure and Going Beyond Words: Events, Practices

Neckar’s Notes • 117 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Reading Practices Events Wisdom Writing
  1. Reading for pleasure is a rare and fulfilling experience in a world dominated by social media and short attention spans.
  2. Engaging in concrete practices beyond mere words is crucial for finding meaning, connection, and balance in life.
  3. Exploring various practices like breathwork and attending events can help cultivate wisdom, balance, and a deeper connection with oneself and the world.

Cultivating A New Worldview For A Better World

Creative Destruction • 68 implied HN points • 16 Feb 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Connection Nature Wisdom Culture Indigenous
  1. Cultivating a new worldview involves reconnecting with nature and embracing a more holistic way of living.
  2. Inner rewilding and re-humanization are essential for rehabilitating humanity and breaking free from destructive living patterns.
  3. Exploring ideas like traditional ecological knowledge and animism in investing can offer valuable insights for nurturing a new worldview rooted in interconnectedness.

Being Good by "Going to Hell"?

Humanities in Revolt • 159 implied HN points • 19 Aug 22
📖 Philosophy Ethics Wisdom Morality Integrity
  1. Being good requires conscious effort and intentional action, contrary to the belief that being bad takes more effort.
  2. Moral goodness is seen as an achievement by philosophers like Buddha and Aristotle, emphasizing the importance of developing virtuous habits.
  3. Challenging societal norms or beliefs, even when faced with ignorance or disapproval, is crucial for genuine moral integrity and often requires disobedience.

The Surprising Secret to Wisdom

What's Important? • 24 implied HN points • 12 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Wisdom Spirituality Self-Improvement Mindfulness Introspection
  1. Pursuing wisdom is super important, but we often ignore it in daily life. It's key to feeling satisfied and fulfilled.
  2. Expertise is all about noticing small details that others might miss. The more we refine our senses, the better we get at understanding the world around us.
  3. Being present in the moment is essential for wisdom. Instead of getting distracted, focusing on our feelings helps us respond better in tough situations.

Morning Birdsong Calls Ryokan Off the Shelf

The False Consensus Effect • 39 implied HN points • 02 Apr 23
📖 Philosophy Existence Wisdom Connection Inner peace
  1. Enjoy the beauty of nature and reflect on the impact of human activities on the environment, like the pollution of the Great Lakes.
  2. Question the pursuit of traditional success and the sacrifices made for material wealth and security, prompting a reflection on the true meaning of a fulfilling life.
  3. Advocate for simpler, more communal living, where the focus is on sharing, connection, and playing together for a happier existence.

Weekly Wisdom #11

Weekly Wisdom • 39 implied HN points • 10 Aug 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Wisdom Buddhism Spirituality Meditation Communication
  1. Wisdom can be explored through open-ended inquiries and examining its opposite, foolishness.
  2. Deep diving into spiritual practices like Buddhism's Ten Fetter model and Zen koans can offer valuable insights and resources.
  3. Resources on effective communication, such as writing as a Zen practice and analyzing popular TED Talks, can enhance communication skills.