Intelligence Squared

The Status Game, with Will Storr

10 snips
Sep 17, 2021
Will Storr, a bestselling author known for his insightful explorations of human behavior, dives into the fascinating world of social status. He discusses how our relentless pursuit of status can influence health and happiness, revealing that higher status often correlates with longer life. Storr examines the delicate balance between warmth and competence in social interactions, the psychological impact of humiliation, and how altruism can be intertwined with status-seeking motivations. It's a compelling look at the intricate dance of identity, fulfillment, and societal dynamics.
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INSIGHT

The Status Game

  • Humans are driven by a fundamental need for status, not just material wealth.
  • Status seeking is an innate drive shaped by our evolutionary history as tribal beings.
INSIGHT

Three Routes to Status

  • There are three primary ways to gain status: dominance, virtue, and success.
  • These routes reflect different strategies for achieving social standing.
ANECDOTE

Anti-Vax as a Status Game

  • The anti-vax movement illustrates how virtue signaling can be used to gain status.
  • Individuals are socially rewarded for upholding group beliefs, even if harmful.
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