Monday, October 8, 2007

Jonathan Haidt + Society

I was sitting at home and for pure kicks, was thinking about how
the behavioral fabric of society plays out and created my own
general pseudo model about the way different strata/groups of
society interact with each other basing it with a cause-effect
focus. I also thought about how that percolates up into the way
bigger groups interact. Upon more research I came across the work
of sociologist, Jonathan Haidt who's 5 pointed model explains all
in a succinct and logical manner :

Purity and Sanctity of purpose binds people - this is how
Clubs/Organizations/Companies/Countries are born. Core group (the
leadership to be) defines purpose.

Respect for Authority - Holds above groups together. Implicit in
this is respect for ranks that are above, in exchange for protection
for those below.

No Physical Harm - Respect is earned by protecting those that are
vulnerable and below you.

Do Unto Others - This is a moral foundation endorsed by religions.
It serves as the mortar that binds whilst keeping sight of the
sanctity of purpose.

Loyalty to Group - The groups formed are vigilant to punish
slackers/traitors etc., that in some shape or form undermine the
cohesiveness of the group. Keeps the groups knit.

The stuff above is a greatly simplified version of Haidt's model.
THINK hard about the model - it does a great job at explaining
a lot about what goes on today around us. The points put forward
is applicable in so many ways to every kind of dynamic you see
that plays out in society.

My model!? Too many squiggly lines in the picture I drew. Not
worth talking about, especially after I read and researched Haidt.
Perhaps, spending 5 hours are so and learning something new is
"geeky" but methinks its fun....