The Deep Roots of ´Us vs Them´

It’s a question that plagues societies and sparks countless conflicts: why is it so incredibly difficult for some to accept that the world, with all its opportunities and resources, is meant for everyone, not just a select "chosen few"? Why do we see individuals clinging to beliefs that suggest only their group deserves power, control, or prosperity?

This isn't just a modern phenomenon; it's a fundamental challenge that cuts to the core of human nature. The struggle to embrace universal equality stems from a complex interplay of evolutionary instincts, deep-seated psychological needs, and powerful social conditioning. In my mind, it is a deep flaw of humanity.

Key Reasons:

1. Our Ancient, Tribal Brains

Our early ancestors lived in small, tight-knit groups, and their survival often depended on intense loyalty within that group. Strangers from another tribe were potential threats. Actual competitors for food, water, or territory. This created an "us vs. them" mentality that was incredibly effective for survival in harsh, unpredictable environments.

While we've evolved dramatically since then, these deep-seated tribal instincts haven't entirely vanished. They can still manifest as an unconscious preference for those who look like us, share our customs, or speak our language. This isn't inherently malicious, but it's fertile ground for prejudice when combined with other factors.

2. The Psychology of Superiority and Fear

From a psychological standpoint, believing in a "chosen few" offers powerful benefits to those who hold such a belief. It provides:

A strong sense of identity: Belonging to a superior group can give a person a clear, often exalted, place in the world.

Security: It can offer a sense of control and stability, especially in times of rapid change or uncertainty.

Justification: It can rationalize one's own successes, or conveniently explain away failures by blaming an "out-group."

Superiority: It provides a feeling of inherent worth or moral uprightness, often at the expense of others.

Crucially, these beliefs often spring from a place of fear: fear of losing resources, fear of social upheaval, fear of losing one's privileged status, or fear of the unknown. When gripped by fear, it's easier to view the world as a zero-sum game - where if someone else gains, you must lose. This scarcity mindset struggles to conceive of shared abundance or mutual benefit. This is often reinforced by cognitive biases, where people selectively seek out and interpret information that confirms their existing prejudices, ignoring anything that challenges their worldview.

3. The Reinforcing Echo Chamber: 

No one develops these beliefs in a vacuum. Societies and cultures play a massive role in shaping our worldview. Throughout history, various narratives - political, religious, or nationalistic - have been crafted to justify the dominance of one group over others.

When individuals are raised within systems that consistently affirm their group's superiority or entitlement, it becomes incredibly difficult to question those deeply ingrained assumptions. These narratives are passed down through generations, shaping institutions, laws, and common wisdom, making it seem "natural" or "ordained" that things should be a certain way.

A Fundamental Flaw We Must Overcome

Yes, this struggle to embrace universal humanity is indeed a fundamental flaw of humanity. The persistent tendency towards tribalism, the difficulty in extending empathy universally, and the all-too-common failure to see the full dignity and worth in every single person have fueled countless atrocities, wars, and systems of oppression throughout history.

Overcoming this deeply embedded flaw is perhaps one of humanity's greatest ongoing challenges. It demands conscious effort, rigorous self-reflection, education that broadens perspectives, and a persistent willingness to dismantle our own biases. Only by acknowledging these deep roots can we begin to cultivate a world where "everyone" truly means everyone.

Thanks for reading. Abrazos.

Diego Rojas