Infinite Loops Will Storr—The Status Game (Infinite Loops CLASSICS)
99 snips
Jul 10, 2025 
In this engaging conversation, award-winning journalist Will Storr dives into his book 'The Status Game,' revealing how our quest for social status drives behavior. He discusses irrational beliefs shaped by personal narratives and the psychology behind status-seeking, including its ties to social media and cults. Storr also explores the complexities of humiliation, its impact on individuals and societies, and the importance of empathy in education—to counteract tribal instincts and promote understanding in an increasingly divided world.
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David Irving's Tragic Belief
- David Irving was a highly respected historian who later denied the Holocaust.
- Despite enormous intelligence, he sincerely believed a profoundly wrong view that ruined his life.
Status as Fundamental Human Need
- Status is the feeling of being of value to your tribe, a fundamental human need.
- Pursuing status underlies all significant human actions, from politics to war to wealth.
Diverse Status Games on Social Media
- Social media status games vary: dominance games are aggressive, virtue games enforce moral rules, and competence games reward skill.
- Positive status games on social media reward sharing knowledge and ideas, enriching communities.
