HBR IdeaCast How Tribalism Can Actually Strengthen Workplace Culture
18 snips
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.
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Tribes Defined
- Tribes are large communities united by shared ideas, routines, and traditions.
- They are the unique human social structure, enabling trust and collaboration beyond immediate family.
Evolutionary Advantage of Tribalism
- Tribalism allows for cumulative culture, giving humans an evolutionary edge.
- Each generation builds upon prior knowledge, adapting to their specific environment.
Tribalism Misunderstood
- The media often misrepresents tribalism as inherently divisive and hostile.
- True tribal instincts promote solidarity, not hostility, enabling trust and cooperation.
