The Next Big Idea Daily How the Cultural Instincts That Divide Us Can Help Bring Us Together
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Dec 5, 2024 
Michael Morris, a cultural psychologist at Columbia University and author of "Tribal," explores the dual nature of tribalism. He discusses how our innate tribal instincts can actually foster cooperation, creating stronger teams and communities. Morris delves into the evolution of cultural identities and their impact in workplaces, highlighting how understanding these dynamics can enhance creativity and teamwork. He also addresses the role of cultural instincts in politics, advocating for awareness to combat divisive partisan biases.
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Tribal Instincts: Features, Not Bugs
- Tribal instincts, like conformity and nostalgia, are not flaws but essential features that drove human evolution.
- These instincts fostered collaboration and trust within larger groups, enabling the sharing of ideas and cultural development.
Three Core Tribal Instincts
- Three core tribal instincts—peer, hero, and ancestor—shaped human collaboration.
- These instincts facilitated coordination, sacrifice for the group, and the preservation of knowledge across generations.
Modern Manifestations of Tribal Instincts
- The peer instinct drives conformity, the hero instinct inspires emulation of successful individuals, and the ancestor instinct motivates upholding traditions.
- These instincts can be observed in our daily lives, influencing our behaviors and cultural practices.
