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EconTalk

Reclaiming Tribalism (with Michael Morris)

Oct 7, 2024
Michael Morris is a cultural psychologist and author of "Tribal," specializing in the impact of cultural instincts on group dynamics. He discusses the nuanced role of tribalism in democracy, suggesting it can unite rather than divide us. Morris shares intriguing examples from sports and leadership, demonstrating how understanding cultural instincts can transform teams and organizations. He also explores the importance of traditions and rituals in maintaining social cohesion, alongside the challenges posed by tribalism in the digital age.
01:22:16

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Cultural psychologist Michael Morris argues that tribal instincts, often seen as negative, can actually enhance cooperation and success in society.
  • The story of Dutch coach Hus Hiddink exemplifies how sensitive leadership and an egalitarian approach can lead to unexpected achievements in team performance.

Deep dives

Reclaiming Tribalism

The discussion highlights the importance of reclaiming the concept of tribalism, which has often been viewed negatively in contemporary discourse. The speaker argues against the notion that humans are genetically predisposed to hate others, emphasizing that our evolutionary history actually favors cooperation and solidarity. This perspective counters the prevalent narrative that tribalism has recently spiraled into toxic behavior, suggesting instead that group conflicts are a longstanding aspect of human society that can be redirected positively. By recognizing and understanding our inherent cultural instincts, individuals can work collectively to foster a more inclusive and cooperative environment.

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