Podcast Summary: Modern Wisdom Episode #874 - Michael Morris - Why Are We More Divided Than Ever?

Introduction

In episode #874 of Modern Wisdom, host Chris Williamson engages in a profound discussion with Michael Morris, a Professor of Cultural Psychology at Columbia University and author of Tribal. The conversation delves into the intricate nature of human tribalism, exploring its evolutionary roots, psychological underpinnings, and the factors contributing to heightened societal divisions in the modern era.

1. Understanding Tribalism: Evolutionary Origins and Definitions

Michael Morris begins by elucidating the concept of tribalism, emphasizing its pivotal role in human evolution. He explains that tribalism enabled early humans to form large, collaborative culture-sharing groups, a distinctive feature separating humans from other social species like chimpanzees.

• Key Quote:

  "[...] tribes are large groups united by shared culture and our tribal instincts were adaptations or mutations that changed our psychology slightly to enable us to live in this kind of group."
  — Michael Morris [04:25]

Morris underscores that tribal instincts have been instrumental in human survival and societal advancement, fostering complex cultures that adapt and thrive within their environments.

2. The Modern Surge in Tribalism and Polarization

Chris Williamson observes that tribalism and polarization are ubiquitous in contemporary discourse, particularly in 2024. Morris responds by differentiating between innate tribal instincts and the current manifestations of societal divisions. He argues that while tribal instincts are deeply ingrained, the modern amplification of tribalism is a result of specific societal changes rather than an inherent increase in hostility.

• Key Quote:

  "Our tribal instincts are instincts for solidarity. All of our instincts will lead us astray in some situations."
  — Michael Morris [06:38]

Morris critiques the media's portrayal of tribalism as an unstoppable curse, suggesting instead that understanding its roots provides avenues for mitigation.

3. The Three Tribal Instincts: Peer, Hero, and Ancestor

Morris introduces a taxonomy of tribal instincts, categorizing them into three primary types: Peer, Hero, and Ancestor. Each instinct plays a distinct role in shaping group dynamics and individual behaviors within tribes.

• Peer Instinct: Conformity and Collaboration

  The peer instinct revolves around conformity and the unconscious adoption of group norms, which facilitates seamless collaboration but can also lead to detrimental conformity in decision-making.

  • Key Quote:

    "The peer instinct is our tendency to conform and imitate what we see around us more than we realize."
    — Michael Morris [29:43]

• Hero Instinct: Aspiration and Status Seeking

  The hero instinct drives individuals to aspire for higher status within the group by contributing significantly or taking risks, fostering innovation and cultural advancement.

  • Key Quote:

    "[...] the hero instinct was a way for individuals to become rewarded by the group, to have status and tributes."
    — Michael Morris [37:22]

• Ancestor Instinct: Tradition and Continuity

  The ancestor instinct fosters a connection to past generations, promoting the maintenance of traditions and cultural continuity, which serves both functional and psychological purposes.

  • Key Quote:

    "The ancestor instinct is the urge to replicate the ways of past generations, to maintain traditions."
    — Michael Morris [62:05]

4. Factors Amplifying Modern Tribal Divisions

Morris identifies several modern factors that exacerbate tribalism:

• Residential Sorting: Technological advancements have allowed individuals to cluster in ideologically homogeneous communities, reducing exposure to diverse viewpoints.

• Media Fragmentation: The rise of partisan media outlets and social media echo chambers reinforce existing beliefs, diminishing opportunities for cross-tribal dialogue.

• Peer Instinct Reinforcement: Continuous exposure to like-minded individuals and media sources strengthens conformist tendencies, making ideological rigidity more pronounced.

  • Key Quote:

    "You started to have these political beliefs that you think are well informed, but they come from a relatively narrow range of the full opinion spectrum."
    — Michael Morris [22:11]

5. The Misconception of "Them vs. Us"

Contrary to popular belief, Morris asserts that tribalism is predominantly an "us" phenomenon rather than an inherent "them" hostility. He argues that the primary focus of tribal instincts is social solidarity within the group, with antagonism toward out-groups being a secondary consequence rather than the driving force.

• Key Quote:

  "It's 95% us instincts. They're not them instincts, because them instincts just wouldn't have been adaptive."
  — Michael Morris [12:19]

6. The Role of Symbols and Ceremonies in Reinforcing Tribes

Morris highlights the importance of cultural symbols and ceremonies in activating the hero and ancestor instincts. Symbols like national flags, anthems, and shared rituals create a sense of unity and collective identity, which can both strengthen the group and, if misused, contribute to exclusionary practices.

• Key Quote:

  "Ceremonies bring out the ancestor instinct by fostering a connection to past generations and maintaining traditions."
  — Michael Morris [77:13]

7. Addressing Modern Divisions: Solutions and Pathways Forward

Morris offers a hopeful perspective, suggesting that understanding the underlying tribal psychology can inform effective strategies to bridge divides. He critiques traditional approaches that pit "us" against "them" and advocates for creating environments that foster cross-tribal connections through shared interests and mutual respect.

• Key Quote:

  "If we believe that the root of the increased partisan conflict has to do with this conformity instinct, [...] there are things you can do about it."
  — Michael Morris [90:04]

Morris emphasizes initiatives that encourage intergroup dialogue without priming participants for conflict, such as focusing on common passions rather than divisive issues, to cultivate empathy and understanding.

8. Historical Perspectives and Cultural Resilience

Drawing parallels with historical events, Morris references Abraham Lincoln's efforts to unify a divided nation through shared heritage and collective traditions like Thanksgiving. This example illustrates how emphasizing common identity and historical continuity can mitigate conflict and foster national cohesion.

• Key Quote:

  "The mystic chords of memory will yet swell the chorus of the Union."
  — Abraham Lincoln [Reference by Michael Morris]

Conclusion

The conversation between Chris Williamson and Michael Morris offers a nuanced exploration of tribalism, moving beyond simplistic notions of inherent hostility toward outsiders. By dissecting the evolutionary, psychological, and sociocultural dimensions of tribal instincts, Morris provides a framework for understanding and addressing the root causes of modern societal divisions. The episode underscores the potential for leveraging our innate tribal tendencies towards positive collaboration and mutual respect, rather than succumbing to destructive polarization.

Further Resources

To delve deeper into Michael Morris's insights on tribalism, listeners are encouraged to explore his book Tribal and visit his professional websites:

• Tribal Book: tribalbook.org
• Michael Morris's Research and Publications: michaelwmorris.com