Deep Dive with Ali Abdaal

How and Why We Play Social Status Games - Will Storr

126 snips
Mar 7, 2022
Will Storr, best-selling author of The Status Game, delves into the fundamental human motive of social status. He discusses how our pursuit of status can drive personal growth and success, while also influencing our relationships and society at large. Storr shares insights on navigating social interactions, the dynamics of workplace status, and cultural differences in competitiveness. He also highlights the dual nature of status, linking it to both altruism and conflict, and offers practical tips for enhancing social standing through authenticity and connection.
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INSIGHT

The Drive to Get Along and Get Ahead

  • Our subconscious drive is to get along and get ahead.
  • This stems from our tribal nature, where we seek connection and compete for status within and between groups.
ANECDOTE

Different Status Games

  • Will Storr had a ghostwriting client with an alpha male persona, seemingly intimidating.
  • However, Storr realized they had different status criteria: physical prowess vs. intellectual achievements.
INSIGHT

Status as a Social Nutrient

  • Status is a social nutrient, essential for well-being; its absence leads to psychological and physical distress.
  • It incentivizes prosocial behavior: we gain status by being virtuous or successful, driving societal progress.
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