Our Tribal Future

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? 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?

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. 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?