Our Tribal Future : How to channel our human instinct into a force for good

An astounding and inspiring look at the science behind tribalism - and how we can learn to harness this powerful instinct to improve the world around us What do you think of when you hear the word tribalism?

<p><b>An astounding and inspiring look at the science behind tribalism - and how we can learn to harness this powerful instinct to improve the world around us </b><br><br>What do you think of when you hear the word <i>tribalism</i>? For many, it conjures images of bigotry, xenophobia and sectarian violence. Others may envision their own tribe: family, friends and the bonds of loyalty that keep them together. Tribalism is one of the most complex and ancient evolutionary forces; it gave us the capacity for co-operation and competition, and allowed us to navigate increasingly complex social landscapes. It is so powerful that it is a better predictor of our behaviour than race, class, gender or religion. But in our vast modern world, has this blessing become a curse?<br><br><i>Our Tribal Future </i>explores a central paradox of our species: how altruism, community, kindness and genocide are all driven by the same core adaptation. Evolutionary anthropologist David R. Samson engages with cutting-edge science and philosophy, as well as his own field research with small-scale societies and wild chimpanzees, to explain the science, ethics and history of tribalism in compelling and accessible terms.<br><br>This bold and brilliant book reveals provocative truths about our nature. Readers will discover that tribalism cannot, and should not, be eliminated entirely - to do so would be to destroy what makes us human. But is it possible to channel the best of this instinct to enrich our lives while containing the worst of its dangers?</p>