Our Tribal Future

How to Channel Our Foundational Human Instincts into a Force for Good

By: David R. Samson

Narrated by: Fajer Al-Kaisi

An astounding and inspiring look at the science behind tribalism, and how we can learn to harness it to improve the world around us.

What do you think of when you hear the word “tribalism?” 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 cooperation and competition, and allowed us to navigate increasingly complex social landscapes. It is so powerful that it can predict our behavior even better than race, class, gender, or religion. But in our vast modern world, has this blessing become a curse?

Our Tribal Future 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.

This bold and brilliant book reveals provocative truths about our nature. Listeners 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?

©2023 David R. Samson (P)2023 Random House Audio

Insightful

Great insight to why us humans have evolved to act the way we do and also good strategies on how we can better understand and use our tribal drive for the benefit of ourselves, those around us, and society as a whole.

Intentional community leaders ought to listen/read this book

As one who wants to create an intentional community, I found this a well thought through anthropological perspective identifying key tribal issues and it has left me with MUCH to consider... I'm appreciative of the research, his humor, and audio format. I will listen to this again.

Best Game Plan Yet for Unfucking the World

I haven't come across anything so comprehensive and insightful out there yet on how to retribalize. Wish there was even more on the psychological characteristics that make the best communards. Possibly more essential than David Graeber's works. If you are into David Sloan and Prosocial theory or management of the commons... this is a must read.

Ironic

I like the research but the political opinion sections are hilariously self unaware. I wouldn't even mind the one-sided views if it were not presented so smug and self righteous.

This could have been a good book. The sections on tribalism are either obvious to any mature adult or regularly explained in books on emotional health.

I titled my review ironic because the author explains how individuals choose group beliefs over the truth. Then explains his group beliefs. He explains how much of our divisive politics brain wash us. Then tells us about his absolute support for one political party.

I cannot recommend this book.