The Roots of Tribalism

Humans possess an innate inclination towards tribalism, a trait essential for survival that has persisted since prehistoric times. Our ancestors lived in close-knit groups where cooperation and mutual support were critical for hunting and gathering, leading to a deeply ingrained need to protect the tribe from external threats. This evolutionary behavior includes actively seeking out enemy tribes, driven by competition for resources and social cohesion within groups. Armed with this understanding, we can better comprehend why contemporary political affiliations often resemble tribal loyalty, where members defend their groups against perceived adversaries.