Comparison: Individualism vs. Tribalism

See also Us Vs Them

While they sound similar, the psychological shift from “Me and them” to “Them and us” represents a major change in how a person sees ther own identity and power within a group.

In this state, you see yourself as an independent agent. You are the center of your own world, and everyone else is an outside force that either helps or hinders you.

• Identity: Your self-worth is tied to your own actions and personal success.
• The Conflict: When things go wrong, it is “Me vs. Everyone.” You might feel isolated or like a “lone wolf.”
• Power: You believe power comes from your individual skills and what you personally no.
• Social State: This is common in “Opportunist” mindsets, where the goal is to protect oneself and get ahead of others.

This is a shift toward Social Identity Theory. You no longer see yourself as just an “I,” but as part of a “We.” You have drawn a circle, and people are either inside it with you or outside as “Them.”

• Identity: Your self-worth is tied to the group. If your group (the “Us”) wins, you feel like you won, even if you didn't do anything personally.
• The Conflict: The world is divided into an “In-group” and an “Out-group.” You are more likely to forgive mistakes made by “Us” while judging “Them” harshly for the same behavior.
• Power: Power comes from group loyalty and collective resources.
• Social State: This is the “Diplomat” or “Tribal” mindset. It provides security and belonging, but it often leads to prejudice and hostility toward outsiders.

People often move from “Me and them” to “Them and us” when they feel threatened. When we feel vulnerable as individuals, we seek the “power in numbers” that a group provides. However, the danger is that in an “Us vs. Them” world, people often stop thinking for themselves and just follow the group's lead.