Commenters argued that the uptick in positive views of "socialism" reflects a contest over what the word means. Several said Americans conflate socialism with social-democratic policies like public education, health care, Social Security and New Deal-style interventions (mig39, 4lx87, astrobe_), or use the label as a Cold War-style slur while still relying on social programs (Isamu, jimt1234). Others insisted socialism properly means worker ownership of the means of production and criticized looser definitions (throwawayqqq11, ekjhg...). Some blamed political tribalism and elite rhetoric for muddying definitions and driving sympathy for alternatives (OhMeadhbh, glibMonkeyDeath), and noted clear age and gender divides in sentiment.
Opinion split on causes and remedies. Some saw growing sympathy as backlash against demonization and inequality, citing Europe’s social democracies as models (jauntywundrkind, maxglute, anramon), while others warned of either revolutionary risk or mere rebranding (jamiesonbecker, recursivedoubts). A few pushed alternative proposals - Georgism, social credit, MMT - or urged political engagement rather than complaint (OhMeadhbh, rhelz, recursivedoubts). Observers also debated whether Americans routinely vote against their interests or simply have different preferences (RicoElectrico, bigstrat2003).
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New York has filed a lawsuit claiming that Polymarket's prediction markets constitute illegal gambling. The case challenges the legality of using prediction markets for betting purposes under state law. (reuters.com)
Diplomacy is a strategic board game predating Risk and Magic: The Gathering, emphasizing negotiation and betrayal among players. A writer recounts his experience playing the game at a tournament, highlighting the intense alliances and betrayals that define its gameplay. (grantland.com)
California has $8.14 trillion worth of land, which cannot move or leave the state, unlike billionaire wealth. A proposed wealth tax on billionaires is unlikely to succeed because many billionaires can relocate their assets or residency to avoid taxes. (blog.landeconomics.org)
A poll shows New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is the most popular elected official in NYC. Mamdani gained widespread support after recent public appearances and policy initiatives. (nydailynews.com)
AI models like GPT-6 Sol and Opus 5.5 are being used to decode 17th-century letters and trace alchemical knowledge, offering new insights into historical texts. Experts believe collaboration with AI can significantly advance historical research, especially in cryptography, text translation, and connecting niche findings. (resobscura.substack.com)
The EU defence chief praised Palantir as a great company in an interview with Euronews. The statement highlights the company's reputation in the defense sector. (euronews.com)
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