Evolutionary Perspective on Division
Politics and sex have been bedfellows since the beginning of time. Though it feels like we’re more divided than ever, we have always had cultural divisions and it has always impacted us deeply. Bathroom bans, “traditional” family values and female bodily autonomy are just the newest flavor of this ancient struggle.
In Tribal: How the Cultural Instincts that Divide Us Can Help Bring Us Together, Michael Morris presents an exploration of connection, identity, and the power of belonging. This book resonates deeply— it addresses themes that frequently arise in the therapy room: the human need for community, the pain of exclusion, and the complex interplay between individuality and group dynamics. Morris weaves together research, storytelling, and cultural critique to create a thought-provoking narrative that challenges readers to reimagine how we engage with the world around us.
Morris’s central argument—that our sense of belonging is foundational to our mental health and well-being—aligns with core principles in psychology. The book dives into how tribalism, both in its positive and negative forms, shapes our relationships and sense of self. Clients often grapple with feelings of alienation or struggle to balance their individuality with their desire for acceptance within society, their family or other groups.
One of the book’s strengths is its ability to blend academic research with relatable anecdotes. Morris’s storytelling brings abstract concepts to life, making them accessible to both clinicians and lay readers. For therapists, his examples can serve as useful metaphors or conversation starters in sessions. The discussion on how American society’s hyper-individualism undermines our innate need for connection is particularly poignant and offers a fresh perspective on cultural trends that contribute to loneliness and disconnection.
From a clinical perspective, Tribal offers numerous takeaways that can enhance therapeutic work. It underscores the importance of fostering connection and creating spaces where clients feel seen and understood. The book also invites therapists to reflect on their own "tribes" and how their personal experiences with belonging or exclusion influence their practice. For clients struggling with isolation, Morris’s insights can provide a roadmap for building meaningful connections and reclaiming a sense of community.
