Tribalism is like a potluck where everyone brings their own dish, but instead of enjoying the feast, we end up in a food fight over whose grandma had the best recipe
This is an interesting analogy, but I would argue everyone wanting the best recipe is the only way to make innovation. I guess the question is when does innovation become too competitive/counter productive.
Language, that most splendid of human inventions, has been the cornerstone of our ability to cooperate, to build societies, to share knowledge across generations, and to foster understanding. The Pyramids of Egypt, the laws of Hammurabi, the plays of Shakespeare, the scientific revelations of Newton and Einstein – all these were made possible by the power of language.
But language also has a tribal aspect. Language, indeed, is the most potent symbol of our tribal affiliations, and rightly so. It is through the unique vernacular of our tribes that we maintain our identity, our heritage, and our traditions. This is not a matter to be lamented but celebrated.
The diversity of languages and dialects across the globe is a testament to the rich variety of human experiences and perspectives. Each tribe, with its distinct language, represents a unique way of interpreting the world, a singular narrative woven into the larger tapestry of human history. This is the very essence of our success as a species – not in spite of our tribal divisions, but because of them.
Tribalism, in its essence, fosters a sense of belonging and identity. It provides a framework within which individuals can understand their roles, their history, and their obligations to the group. This is not to be dismissed lightly. In a world increasingly homogenized by the forces of globalization and mass communication, the preservation of tribal languages and cultures becomes even more crucial.
While tribalism can foster a sense of belonging and shared identity, it often leads to an "us versus them" mentality. Creating divisiveness under the disguise of progress is harmful.
One point on Tribalism. It's a natural extension of Darwinian evolution applied to groups. one tribe doing well and better than the rest fosters competition and makes human sharp and focused. It gives incentives for other groups to step up and raise their game. It doesn't not cause people to fall into the trap of DEI. It makes people stronger, hungrier, sharper and more innovative as well. This notion of let's all hold our hands together and be one, will never be practical. There is no incentive embedded in that kind of hand holding. It's pure, simple UTOPIA!
Id like to consider a concept of cosmopolitanism or globalism, emphasizing an inclusive mindset that values diversity, collaboration, and interconnectedness on a broader scale, transcending narrow affiliations.
Advocates of tribalism might argue that it provides a sense of identity, belonging, and shared values within a community. They might believe that a strong tribal bond can create a supportive and cohesive social structure, fostering a sense of security and continuity for its members.
However, Tribalism narrows our perspective. Hindering our collective progress. Embracing diversity fosters a richer tapestry of ideas, enabling us to address challenges with a broader, more inclusive mindset.
Tribalism is inherently good, as looking out for those in your close community regardless of any subconscious bias can only help. Where tribalism becomes an issue is when people use it as an excuse to consciously exclude or ignore those around them who need help.
I really like this idea. Social identity theory encapsulates this idea well ; it highlights and explains that individuals have a desire to be a part of a community and to categorize themselves and others into social groups. Being part of said group provides them with a collective identity which can be based on numerous factos such as ethnicity, religion, nationality, interests etc. Hence often, as a result, categorization always leaves some individuals displaced or an environment is harvested in which there is discrimination to other such categories.
Tribalism is a good thing and as someone said it's been a model that has worked and evolved. Having said that I think the more intersections and overlaps there are between the tribes the better
It is innately good, as helping others is good regardless of underlying intention. It is only a problem when tribalism becomes not looking out for others or hurting others because they are not like you.
Tribalism, as seeking out people like yourselves is a good thing. It only becomes a problem when it becomes one tribe against another, or one tribe against everyone not in the tribe. As long as we don't put ourselves too deeply in one tribe, it is a good thing.
It is unfair to denied human desire for connection and the tendency to gravitate towards those similar to oneself. However, it is also important to practice empathy by trying to understand and appreciate where others are coming from, especially those with different viewpoints. Open-mindedness also helps in considering ideas and perspectives different from your own.
I agree with you. Even though hanging out with like minded people is attractive, stepping out of your comfort zone and learning and discussing with others that don't have the same viewpoint as you is extremely important.
I do feel that when you see people like you, you do tend to seek them out, and talk to them, possibly forming a group/club. However, it can esily get out of hand when/if you stop talking/socializing with people who have different world views than you.
I think tribalism is good, until it turns bad. So it must be neutral.
I don't know if it's something with innate quality (good/bad) rather situationally dependent how it emerges.
For example, Tribalism in the pursuit of writing past wrong can be well intentioned, but end up having consequences that some would argue are good, others bad. Take affirmative action, DEI, ESG, all the three letter movements.
They're inherently tribalist driven by the victimization of one group, but the question is where do you draw the line on making it right for the victim.
Yea I agree, the intent behind a concept is more good or bad rather than the concept itself. And the duality of human nature means that the outcome is intrinsically tied to the human intent behind it.
The formation of like minded institutions and communities for the purpose of connecting, exchanging ideas, furthering a cause or celebrating an event is all ok. When tribalism extends to deliberately discriminating against other groups that don't quite conform to the views of the first group is when there's a problem. Having said that freedom of speech and expression are essential in this world. So if a set of individuals to get together and want to stay that way and forbid other groups from not joining them, so be it. Where it gets tricky, is if it keeps other groups out of having equal opportunity in areas like education, housing, transportation, health care and that's where we need to be so careful.
While tribes have indeed woven themselves into the fabric of history, envisioning a future free from the entanglements of tribalism invites us to sculpt a society where diversity of thought flourishes. Navigating the seas of free speech challenges may require a nuanced approach, steering away from tribal echoes and embracing the harmonious symphony of diverse perspectives.
Tribalism is like a potluck where everyone brings their own dish, but instead of enjoying the feast, we end up in a food fight over whose grandma had the best recipe
Language, that most splendid of human inventions, has been the cornerstone of our ability to cooperate, to build societies, to share knowledge across generations, and to foster understanding. The Pyramids of Egypt, the laws of Hammurabi, the plays of Shakespeare, the scientific revelations of Newton and Einstein – all these were made possible by the power of language.
But language also has a tribal aspect. Language, indeed, is the most potent symbol of our tribal affiliations, and rightly so. It is through the unique vernacular of our tribes that we maintain our identity, our heritage, and our traditions. This is not a matter to be lamented but celebrated.
The diversity of languages and dialects across the globe is a testament to the rich variety of human experiences and perspectives. Each tribe, with its distinct language, represents a unique way of interpreting the world, a singular narrative woven into the larger tapestry of human history. This is the very essence of our success as a species – not in spite of our tribal divisions, but because of them.
One point on Tribalism. It's a natural extension of Darwinian evolution applied to groups. one tribe doing well and better than the rest fosters competition and makes human sharp and focused. It gives incentives for other groups to step up and raise their game. It doesn't not cause people to fall into the trap of DEI. It makes people stronger, hungrier, sharper and more innovative as well. This notion of let's all hold our hands together and be one, will never be practical. There is no incentive embedded in that kind of hand holding. It's pure, simple UTOPIA!
Id like to consider a concept of cosmopolitanism or globalism, emphasizing an inclusive mindset that values diversity, collaboration, and interconnectedness on a broader scale, transcending narrow affiliations.
Tribalism may have brought people together, but it is also what has torn them apart.
Advocates of tribalism might argue that it provides a sense of identity, belonging, and shared values within a community. They might believe that a strong tribal bond can create a supportive and cohesive social structure, fostering a sense of security and continuity for its members.
However, Tribalism narrows our perspective. Hindering our collective progress. Embracing diversity fosters a richer tapestry of ideas, enabling us to address challenges with a broader, more inclusive mindset.
Tribalism is inherently good, as looking out for those in your close community regardless of any subconscious bias can only help. Where tribalism becomes an issue is when people use it as an excuse to consciously exclude or ignore those around them who need help.
Tribalism is a good thing and as someone said it's been a model that has worked and evolved. Having said that I think the more intersections and overlaps there are between the tribes the better
Tribalism is what has fostered the success and long term existence of the human race. I am pro.
It is innately good, as helping others is good regardless of underlying intention. It is only a problem when tribalism becomes not looking out for others or hurting others because they are not like you.
Tribalism, as seeking out people like yourselves is a good thing. It only becomes a problem when it becomes one tribe against another, or one tribe against everyone not in the tribe. As long as we don't put ourselves too deeply in one tribe, it is a good thing.
It is unfair to denied human desire for connection and the tendency to gravitate towards those similar to oneself. However, it is also important to practice empathy by trying to understand and appreciate where others are coming from, especially those with different viewpoints. Open-mindedness also helps in considering ideas and perspectives different from your own.
Yes, I definitely agree with you guys.
I do feel that when you see people like you, you do tend to seek them out, and talk to them, possibly forming a group/club. However, it can esily get out of hand when/if you stop talking/socializing with people who have different world views than you.
I think tribalism is good, until it turns bad. So it must be neutral.
Thanks!
I don't know if it's something with innate quality (good/bad) rather situationally dependent how it emerges.
For example, Tribalism in the pursuit of writing past wrong can be well intentioned, but end up having consequences that some would argue are good, others bad. Take affirmative action, DEI, ESG, all the three letter movements.
They're inherently tribalist driven by the victimization of one group, but the question is where do you draw the line on making it right for the victim.
The formation of like minded institutions and communities for the purpose of connecting, exchanging ideas, furthering a cause or celebrating an event is all ok. When tribalism extends to deliberately discriminating against other groups that don't quite conform to the views of the first group is when there's a problem. Having said that freedom of speech and expression are essential in this world. So if a set of individuals to get together and want to stay that way and forbid other groups from not joining them, so be it. Where it gets tricky, is if it keeps other groups out of having equal opportunity in areas like education, housing, transportation, health care and that's where we need to be so careful.