Reclaiming Tribalism (with Michael Morris)

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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.

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ANECDOTE

South Korean Soccer Team Transformation

Guus Hiddink, a Dutch soccer coach, transformed the South Korean team for the 2002 World Cup.
Despite cultural differences and initial setbacks, his unconventional methods led them to the semifinals.

INSIGHT

Outsider Success and Failure

Radical change from outsiders can fail due to cultural misunderstandings.
Hiddink’s success, despite this risk, stemmed from factors like roster control, demanding exhibition games, and securing uninterrupted training time.

INSIGHT

The Peer Instinct and Conformity

The peer instinct, driven by our need to conform, influences choices in ambiguous situations.
Code-switching exemplifies how peer codes activate different cultural habits based on social context.

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Tribe

On Homecoming and Belonging

Sebastian Junger

In 'Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging', Sebastian Junger delves into the human desire for community and belonging. Drawing from history, psychology, and anthropology, Junger examines why many individuals, including combat veterans, often feel a stronger sense of belonging in tribal or wartime environments than in modern society. He argues that the lack of community in affluent societies can lead to feelings of isolation and depression, while disasters and wars can paradoxically bring people together and foster a sense of unity. The book challenges the notion that modern society is superior to tribal societies, highlighting the benefits of egalitarianism and community found in the latter. Junger also discusses how the absence of these communal bonds can affect veterans returning from war and suggests that societal changes could help reintegrate them and improve overall societal well-being.

Tribal

How the Cultural Instincts That Divide Us Can Help Bring Us Together

Michael Morris

In 'Tribal,' Michael Morris argues that our psychology is wired by evolution in three distinctive ways: the peer instinct to conform, the hero instinct to give to the group, and the ancestor instinct to follow prior generations. These tribal instincts enable us to share knowledge, work as a team, and transmit cultural knowledge. Morris uses deep research, current and historical events, and stories from business and politics to show how these instincts can elevate performance, heal rifts, and drive cultural change. The book challenges conventional wisdom and offers a hopeful vision for collective change.

Orbiting the giant hairball

Gordon MacKenzie

In 'Orbiting the Giant Hairball,' Gordon MacKenzie explores the challenges of preserving creativity in mature organizations. The book introduces the concept of the 'hairball,' which represents the accumulation of established practices and conformity that can stifle innovation. MacKenzie argues that by 'orbiting' around this hairball, individuals can maintain their unique creative identities while still contributing to the corporate mission. The book is filled with anecdotes, sketches, and practical advice on how to balance creativity with the discipline of business.