Tribes: A Search for Belonging in a Divided Society

David Lammy's memoir, "Tribes," explores the effects of tribalism in British politics and society, examining how it can manifest positively and negatively. He reveals his own DNA test results, showing his diverse genetic heritage, and discusses how globalization and digitization have led to new forms of tribalism. The book is a fascinating and perceptive analysis of both the way the world works and the way we are.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 18 February 2021
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Tribes is a remarkable book that delves into the pervasive phenomenon of tribalism in British politics. Written by Decca Aitkenhead, a journalist and author known for her insightful commentary on social issues, Tribes offers a measured, introspective, and ruthlessly self-scrutinizing exploration of this complex issue.

What sets Tribes apart is its author's unique perspective and background. David Lammy, the first black Briton to study at Harvard Law School and practice as a barrister before entering politics, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the book. He has served as the Member of Parliament for Tottenham since 2000, where he has become one of Parliament's most prominent and successful campaigners for social justice.

In 2007, Lammy embarked on a personal journey to explore his own African roots, taking a DNA test that revealed his genetic makeup. The test showed that he was 25% Tuareg tribe (Niger), 25% Temne tribe (Sierra Leone), 25% Bantu tribe (South Africa), with 5% traces of Celtic Scotland and a mishmash of other unidentified groups. This revelation challenged his preconceived notions and sparked a deeper exploration of his identity and heritage.

Tribes is a fascinating and perceptive analysis of not only the way the world works but also the way we are. It explores both the benign and malign effects of our need to belong, genetically programmed and socially acquired. The book demonstrates how this need can manifest itself in positive ways, such as collaboration and collective achievement, but also how it can lead to division, prejudice, and conflict.

One of the book's key themes is the impact of globalization and digitization on tribalism. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the lines between different groups and communities become blurred, leading to the emergence of new forms of tribalism. Tribes argues that while globalization has brought about many positive changes, it has also created a sense of isolation and division among people, particularly those who feel left behind or marginalized.

The book also delves into the historical roots of tribalism and how it has shaped societies throughout history. It explores how different cultures and societies have used tribalism as a means of identity and belonging, as well as how it has been used to justify discrimination, oppression, and war. Tribes argues that while tribalism can be a powerful force for good, it can also be a destructive force that perpetuates inequality and injustice.

Throughout the book, Aitkenhead employs a combination of personal anecdotes, historical analysis, and social commentary to shed light on the complexities of tribalism. She challenges readers to think critically about their own biases and assumptions and encourages them to seek out diverse perspectives and experiences. Tribes is a call-to-arms for those who want to work towards a more inclusive and equitable society, where differences are celebrated rather than feared and where people can come together to achieve great things.

In conclusion, Tribes is a superb book that offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of tribalism in British politics. Written by a talented author with a unique perspective and background, the book provides a measured, introspective, and ruthlessly self-scrutinizing analysis of this complex issue. It challenges readers to think critically about their own biases and assumptions and encourages them to seek out diverse perspectives and experiences. Tribes is a call-to-arms for those who want to work towards a more inclusive and equitable society, where differences are celebrated rather than feared and where people can come together to achieve great things.

Weight: 286g
Dimension: 126 x 197 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472128720