TRIBALISM Meaning and
Definition
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Tribalism refers to a social, cultural, or political system in which individuals identify strongly with and prioritize the interests, values, and loyalty of their own group or tribe above broader societal concerns. It is characterized by a strong sense of group identity and solidarity, often based on factors such as common ancestry, language, religion, or cultural practices. In a tribalistic society, people tend to view themselves as members of a particular group rather than as individuals, and they may exhibit behaviors and attitudes that promote the interests of their own group while disregarding or even opposing those of other groups.
Tribalism can manifest in various forms, ranging from relatively harmless expressions of cultural pride and celebration to more extreme instances of discrimination, exclusion, or conflict between different tribes or groups. It may involve the formation of exclusive in-groups and the development of a sense of "us versus them" mentality, which can foster the devaluation or demonization of outsiders.
Tribalism often operates on the belief that group loyalty is paramount and should take precedence over other loyalties, such as those to the nation or common humanity. This mentality can impede social cohesion, cooperation, and understanding among diverse groups within a society as it reinforces divisions and perpetuates stereotypes and prejudices. By prioritizing tribal affiliations, individuals may be prone to favoring their own group's interests, often at the expense of broader societal well-being and the implementation of equitable policies.
Overall, tribalism represents a societal dynamic that highlights the powerful influence of group identity, emphasizing the need for fostering inclusive attitudes and promoting unity and empathy beyond tribal boundaries.
Common Misspellings for TRIBALISM
Etymology of TRIBALISM
The word "tribalism" emerged in the early 20th century, deriving from the noun "tribe" which has a significantly older origin. The term "tribe" is rooted in the Latin word "tribus", which originally referred to one of the three political or social divisions of the ancient Roman people.
Over time, "tribus" began to encompass a broader concept, signifying a social group, usually united by common ancestry, language, culture, or beliefs. In this sense, "tribe" evolved into a term used to describe various indigenous or traditional social structures around the world.
The term "tribalism" later emerged as a descriptive word used to characterize the social and cultural behavior associated with tribes. It refers to strong loyalty or attachment to one's own social or cultural group, often leading to a sense of exclusivity or opposition to people outside the group.
Similar spelling words for TRIBALISM
- tribolium,
- tribal chief,
- trivialise,
- Trablous,
- tribulus,
- treble,
- trivialize,
- triviality,
- Tribble,
- tribal,
- tripalmitin,
- tribologist.
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