How Tribalism has Changed

The phenomenon of tribalism and its evolution over time presents a unique lens through which to examine the current state of political polarization in the West. As we consider the cultural and social transformations that have occurred, it becomes apparent that tribal instincts—once a cornerstone of human cooperation and survival—have undergone significant changes as society has grown more individualistic.

In earlier stages of human history, tribalism was a remarkable evolutionary adaptation that propelled humanity to the top of the food chain. It facilitated cooperation, division of labor, and mutual support, enabling human beings to form cohesive communities beyond kinship ties. This communal bond not only provided the means for physical survival but also nurtured altruism and deterred free-riding behaviors that could threaten the group's stability. These instincts ensured that members of a tribe worked together to secure resources and safety, fostering an environment in which physiological needs—as described by Maslow’s hierarchy—were comfortably met.

The advent of tribalism marked a critical shift in human consciousness. Prior to this, individuals were primarily concerned with survival and reproduction, with little intellectual space for identity or social belonging. The challenges of securing food, safety, and shelter dominated human thought, leaving no room for complex interpersonal or societal concerns. With the establishment of tribes, individuals could rely on communal support for their basic needs, freeing cognitive resources to focus on higher-order concerns such as acceptance, value, and inclusion within the group. This newfound stability catalyzed the development of individual identities, laying the groundwork for human advancement.

The original tribal structure was built on mutualism and cooperation, as these traits offered evolutionary advantages. A cohesive tribe thrived by fostering in-group love, a sense of belonging, and collective effort. Competition and animosity toward other groups were peripheral consequences, not the defining features of tribalism. Instead, the primary purpose of these instincts was to create a strong and supportive in-group dynamic that maximized survival and resource yield. This collective approach enabled humanity to transition from a state of constant survival to one of flourishing, setting the stage for the rise of civilizations.

As societies evolved, however, the dynamics of tribalism began to shift. Over millennia, Western cultures in particular grew increasingly individualistic. This shift, while fostering innovation and personal freedom, altered the foundational purpose of tribalism. Communities transitioned from being essential for survival to serving as mechanisms for validating individual identities and values. This transformation has had profound implications for the social fabric, particularly in the current era of political polarization.

The election of Donald Trump in 2016 serves as a case study for this dynamic. The divisiveness of his presidency crystallized existing tensions, forcing individuals to align themselves with one of two polarized camps. For many, this alignment was less about pride in their chosen group and more about fear of the opposition. This modern iteration of tribalism contrasts sharply with its original function, as it prioritizes individual psychological comfort over communal cohesion.

To understand this transformation fully, we must compare the advent of tribalism to its current resurgence. At its inception, tribalism emerged as a response to fundamental human needs. The absence of a reliable social structure meant that individuals were preoccupied with securing the resources necessary for survival. Tribes provided a solution by pooling resources and ensuring collective safety. This communal structure allowed humans to transcend the immediate pressures of survival, enabling them to explore higher-order concerns and develop as individuals within a supportive group context.

In stark contrast, the return to tribalism in modern society is characterized by its focus on individualism. Today, humans enter tribes not out of necessity for survival, but as a means of reinforcing their identities and beliefs. This shift has fundamentally altered the nature of tribal bonds. Modern tribes are often fragmented and lack the cohesive foundation that defined their predecessors. They exist not to foster in-group love and collaboration, but to validate the individual’s sense of self and shield them from cognitive dissonance.

Modern technology exacerbates this trend by enabling people to express opposition to out-groups without the interpersonal accountability of face-to-face interactions. Online platforms facilitate echo chambers where individuals’ beliefs are reinforced, deepening divisions and perpetuating out-group resentment. Unlike traditional tribes, which were united by shared goals and mutual reliance, these new “tribes” are often fragmented collections of individuals whose primary bond is their shared disdain for the other side.

This evolution of tribalism from a cooperative mechanism to an ego-driven construct has significant implications for society. While traditional tribalism fostered in-group love and collaboration, modern tribalism—rooted in individualism—relies on out-group hatred as its adhesive. The absence of genuine communal bonds weakens the foundation of these new tribes, leaving them vulnerable to further fragmentation.

The dual nature of tribalism—as both a unifying force and a source of division—highlights the complexity of human social behavior. By examining the advent of tribalism and its modern resurgence, we can better understand the forces driving political polarization. To address these divisions, it is essential to revisit the original principles of tribalism. By fostering environments that prioritize mutual understanding, cooperation, and shared goals, societies can counteract the divisive tendencies of modern tribalism. Recognizing the value of in-group love over out-group hate may pave the way for a more cohesive and inclusive future.

As we move forward, it is crucial to reflect on how the balance between individualism and communal identity shapes our social structures. By realigning modern tribalism with its original purpose, we may find a path toward reducing polarization and building stronger, more supportive communities.