Prof. Michael Morris’s Tribal is one of the most thought-provoking books I have read in recent times. At a time when the word “tribalism” is often met with negative connotations - blamed for political polarization, discrimination, and social divisions Prof. Morris reframes it as an essential, even advantageous, aspect of human nature. His central argument is compelling: our tribal instincts are not our downfall but rather our greatest asset, allowing us to form large, cohesive, and innovative societies.
What sets Tribal apart from other discussions on the topic is its balanced approach. Prof. Morris does not simply warn against the dangers of tribalism but instead examines its evolutionary origins and its indispensable role in human development. He introduces three fundamental instincts that shape tribal behavior: the peer instinct, which compels us to conform to what most people do; the hero instinct, which drives us to contribute to our groups and emulate those we respect; and the ancestor instinct, which binds us to the traditions and values of past generations. These instincts, he argues, are what enable humanity to share knowledge, establish lasting institutions, and work collectively toward progress.
Watch: The Power of Tribal Instincts: Insights from Prof. Michael Morris’ Book
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its ability to blend deep research with real-world examples. Prof. Morris seamlessly integrates psychological studies with historical and contemporary events, making his arguments both academically rigorous and accessible. Whether discussing the way corporate cultures shape decision-making, how political movements gain traction, or how social norms evolve, he demonstrates the profound influence of tribal instincts across different domains.
I found Prof. Morris’s perspective particularly refreshing in his discussion of tribalism in the workplace. While many management theories advocate for fostering inclusivity and breaking down silos, Tribal suggests that rather than erasing tribal instincts, organizations should harness them strategically. By recognizing the psychological mechanisms at play, leaders can cultivate loyalty, enhance collaboration, and drive cultural transformation in ways that feel natural rather than forced.
Another standout aspect of the book is its optimism. Unlike many discussions that portray tribalism as a force of division, Prof. Morris emphasizes how understanding our innate instincts can lead to positive societal change. By acknowledging and leveraging our natural inclinations rather than denying them, we can bridge divides, heal social fractures, and create more resilient communities. His insights provide not just an intellectual exercise but a practical toolkit for navigating today’s increasingly complex social and political landscape.
Of course, the book does not shy away from the darker sides of tribalism. Prof. Morris acknowledges the risks of groupthink, exclusionary behaviors, and the perils of blind allegiance. However, instead of advocating for eliminating tribal tendencies - an unrealistic goal - he provides nuanced solutions for mitigating their negative impacts while amplifying their benefits.
Reading Tribal has fundamentally shifted the way I think about human behavior. It has deepened my appreciation for the forces that shape group identity and has given me a more sophisticated lens through which to analyze everything from corporate cultures to global politics. The book is insightful, well-researched, and, most importantly, applicable to everyday life.
For anyone interested in psychology, leadership, social dynamics, or simply understanding the undercurrents that drive human interactions, Tribal is must-read. It challenges conventional wisdom, encourages deeper reflection, and offers a hopeful vision for the future - one where our tribal instincts are not a source of division but a foundation for unity and progress.
The book is available on Amazon and other leading bookstores across India. Click here to get your copy today! https://tinyurl.com/36mnjusb
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
About the Author: Prof. Michael Morris holds the Chavkin-Chang Professorship of Leadership at Columbia Business School and is also a Professor in Columbia University’s Psychology Department. A renowned educator, he teaches MBA and executive-level courses in leadership, teamwork, negotiation, communication, and decision-making, including the core MBA class, LEAD, and the innovative elective, The Leader’s Voice, which earned him the Dean’s Award for Curriculum Innovation in 2016. He is a leading expert in cultural psychology and decision-making, with over 200 publications in top behavioral science and management journals. His research spans cultural cognition, social networks, and negotiation, earning numerous international awards. At Columbia, he founded the Leadership Lab and Behavioral Lab to advance social intelligence and behavioral science research. He has served as an editor for major journals and previously held a tenured position at Stanford. He has also been a visiting professor at Harvard, INSEAD, and the University of Hong Kong. Prof. Morris holds a PhD from the University of Michigan and a BA from Brown University.
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