HBR IdeaCast

How Tribalism Can Actually Strengthen Workplace Culture

Oct 1, 2024

Michael Morris, a Columbia Business School professor and author of "Tribal," dives into the misunderstood concept of tribalism. He reveals how our innate tribal instincts can foster positive workplace cultures instead of division. Morris discusses three key instincts—peer, hero, and ancestor—that shape team dynamics. He emphasizes the importance of environmental cues in creating collaboration. Leaders can harness these insights through top-down and bottom-up strategies for transforming organizational culture and enhancing collective identity.

28:01

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Michael Morris

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Quick takeaways

Tribal instincts, rooted in human nature, can foster trust and collaboration, enhancing workplace culture and productivity.

Leaders can leverage cultural psychology to navigate and shape organizational dynamics through a blend of top-down and bottom-up approaches.

Deep dives

Understanding Tribalism in Culture

Tribalism is a deeply ingrained aspect of human nature that originates from our evolutionary history. It encompasses the need for belonging to larger communities characterized by shared ideas, traditions, and routines, which fosters trust and collaboration among members. While often linked to conflicts and divisions in society, tribal instincts actually promote solidarity rather than hostility, providing a framework for individuals to connect and work collectively. Recognizing the positive aspects of tribalism can help leaders leverage these instincts to cultivate a more cohesive and productive organizational culture.

Cultural Heroes Shape Corporate Identity

01:12

Embrace Constructive Tribalism

01:15

Intro

2min

Understanding Tribes and Tribalism in Workplaces

5min

Tribal Instincts and Workplace Culture

10min

Shaping Workplace Culture Through Environmental Cues

5min

Transforming Organizational Culture Through Tribalism

8min

We live in a world that seems more divisive and polarized than ever, and it’s common to describe this phenomenon as tribalism. But Michael Morris, professor at Columbia Business School, says that term is often misunderstood and that tribal instincts can in fact be very positive influences in society and at work. He uses the lens of cultural psychology to explain the deep-seated instincts behind the human need to join and identify as a group. And he breaks down how team managers and organizational leaders can leverage tribal instincts in positive ways strengthen workplace culture. Morris is the author of the new book Tribal: How the Cultural Instincts That Divide Us Can Help Bring Us Together.