TRIGGERnometry Dr Mike Martin: Why We Fight
Feb 3, 2020
Dr. Mike Martin, a former British Army officer and war studies fellow at King's College London, shares insights from his book, exploring the complex reasons behind warfare. He critiques the oversimplified narratives of the Afghan conflict, emphasizing the importance of historical context. The discussion delves into evolutionary psychology, examining how social status and group dynamics influence conflict behavior. Martin also highlights the role of genetics and hormonal factors in shaping our responses to violence and belonging, revealing the intricate ties between biology and warfare.
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Helmand Mistake
- Stationing British troops in Helmand was a mistake rooted in a misreading of history.
- The local tribes, with their oral history, were more aware of British history in the region than the British themselves.
Why We Fight
- Humans fight due to two evolutionary advantages: pursuing social status and belonging.
- High social status increases reproductive success, outweighing even high death rates in war.
Belonging and Conflict
- Belonging to a group was crucial for survival in our evolutionary past.
- This drive creates in-groups and out-groups, fueled by oxytocin and leading to conflict.
