The Status Game (with Will Storr)
And, within these groups, status plays a crucial role. It helps determine who has authority, who has influence, and who is valued. So, our brains are wired to constantly assess and be aware of our own status and the status of others.
As you mentioned, judgment is a key aspect of this status game. We are constantly judging others based on their appearance, their behavior, their possessions, and more. And, in turn, we are constantly being judged by others. This can lead to feelings of insecurity, anxiety, and pressure to constantly prove ourselves.
But, as you experienced on the silent retreat, there is a sense of freedom when we can let go of this constant judgment. When we can release ourselves from the need to compare and compete with others, we can find a sense of peace and liberation.
Writing this book has made me more aware of the ways in which we judge and are judged in everyday life. It has made me realize just how pervasive the status game is and how deeply ingrained it is in our social interactions.
But, it has also made me more compassionate and understanding towards myself and others. We are all playing this game, whether we realize it or not. And, by recognizing this, we can strive to be more empathetic, more supportive, and less judgmental towards one another.
Ultimately, the status game is a part of human nature. It is a reflection of our innate desire for connection and belonging. But, by being aware of it and understanding its impact, we can navigate it more effectively and with greater compassion. And, perhaps, find a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction that goes beyond the need for external validation. In any group, whether it be a soccer team, a political party, a nation, or an army, the dynamics of status play a crucial role in shaping interactions and relationships. Status is essentially a measure of perceived value within a group, and individuals within the group constantly strive to increase their status to reap the benefits that come with it.
The concept of status dates back to the days of hunter-gatherer tribes when human brains were evolving. In those times, being useful to the tribe and putting the tribe’s interests before one’s own led to an increase in status. Higher status meant better access to food, safer sleeping sites, and more desirable mates, all of which are essential for survival and reproduction.
Seeking status is a fundamental rule of human life, as it directly impacts various aspects of existence. Individuals who increase their status often find themselves in a more advantageous position, with benefits that extend to their children and overall well-being. As a result, the pursuit of status becomes a driving force in human behavior.
Conversely, the fear of losing status can lead individuals to distance themselves from those they perceive as lower status. This behavior is often rooted in unconscious biases and societal expectations, with individuals striving to maintain their perceived status in the eyes of others.
However, as highlighted in the discussion between Russ Roberts and Will Storr, the pursuit of status can also lead to moments of empathy and compassion. In a setting where an individual is perceived as lower status, acts of kindness and inclusion can break down societal barriers and foster a sense of unity.
Ultimately, the concept of status is a complex and multifaceted aspect of human behavior. While the desire for status can drive individuals to achieve greatness, it is essential to remember the importance of empathy, kindness, and inclusivity in all interactions. By recognizing the impact of status dynamics, individuals can work towards creating a more equitable and harmonious society where the value of each individual is acknowledged and respected. Age can be a cruel mistress, as we all know. As we get older, our bodies change, our minds change, and our priorities change. But one thing that doesn’t change is our need for status. Whether we realize it or not, we are constantly playing status games, trying to find our place in the world and assert our value.
In his book, “The Status Game,” author Will Storr explores the complex and often irrational ways in which we seek status in our lives. One of the key points he makes is that there are countless status games to play, and as we age, we need to find new games to play where we can excel.
Storr uses the example of Ben Gunn, a former prisoner in the United Kingdom, to illustrate this point. Gunn spent years in prison, becoming known as the “prison lawyer” for his extensive knowledge of prison law and rules. Despite having the opportunity to be released and start a new life with a woman he loved, Gunn chose to stay in prison because of the status he had achieved among his fellow inmates.
This story highlights the power of status and the lengths to which people will go to maintain their status in society. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of becoming too attached to one’s status and losing sight of what truly matters in life.
As we age, it can be easy to feel like we are losing our status and falling behind in the status games we once excelled in. But Storr reminds us that there are always new games to play, new challenges to conquer, and new opportunities to prove our worth. Age may be cruel, but with the right mindset and a willingness to adapt, we can continue to find fulfillment and meaning in our lives, no matter how old we are. The concept of being loved and valued in the Adam Smith sense of the word is a complex and deeply ingrained aspect of human nature. Will Storr, in his discussion with Russ Roberts, delves into the idea that while romantic love provides a sense of connection, it does not fully satisfy the human need for recognition and admiration from the wider community. This need for status, as Storr explains, is a fundamental aspect of human existence that cannot be escaped.
Storr highlights the various attempts throughout history to escape the status game, such as the hikikomori in Japan, the Buddhists, and the Communists. The hikikomori, who withdraw from society and immerse themselves in online gaming, ultimately find themselves isolated and alone. The Buddhists, despite their belief in a karmic system that transcends status, still fall into the trap of spiritual superiority and hierarchy. The Communists, who sought to create a world of pure connection devoid of status, ended up creating a highly hierarchical society with a cult of personality around their leaders.
Storr argues that these attempts to escape the status game have been catastrophic, leading to personal pain and societal issues. He suggests that status, while causing personal struggles, is also the driving force behind technological advancements, artistic achievements, and civilization itself. Without individuals striving for recognition and respect from their peers, progress and innovation would not be possible.
In examining the duality of status, Storr acknowledges that it can lead to both positive and negative outcomes. While status anxiety has been linked to tragic events like the Holocaust, it has also been the driving force behind groundbreaking inventions like the iPhone. Ultimately, Storr concludes that the desire for status is an inherent aspect of human nature that cannot be ignored or escaped.
In a world where status plays a significant role in shaping individuals and societies, Storr’s exploration of the status game offers valuable insights into the complexities of human behavior and the importance of recognition and admiration in our lives. Despite the challenges and pitfalls associated with status, it remains a powerful motivator that drives human progress and achievement. They are at the bottom of the social hierarchy, with no family to support or protect them. And yet, they are often portrayed as resilient, resourceful, and ultimately deserving of more than what life has handed them. It’s a powerful narrative that speaks to our innate desire for justice and fairness.
In a way, we are all orphans in the grand scheme of things. We are born into a world that we did not choose, with circumstances that are largely out of our control. And yet, we still strive for more, for better, for higher status. It’s a universal human trait that transcends age, culture, and upbringing.
As we navigate the complexities of life, grappling with questions of religion, capitalism, and status, it’s important to remember that these are not black-and-white issues. They are nuanced, multifaceted, and deeply ingrained in our collective psyche. And while we may never fully resolve the debate over whether they are good or bad, we can strive to approach them with humility, curiosity, and an open mind.
Perhaps, as we age and gain wisdom, we can learn to let go of some of our grievances and insecurities. We can embrace the wisdom of Buddhism, the resilience of orphans, and the humility of knowing that we are all just trying to find our place in this vast and complex world.
So, let’s resist the urge to reduce these complex phenomena into simplistic binaries. Let’s embrace the messy, contradictory, and beautiful reality of being human. And let’s remember that, in the end, we are all deserving of love, respect, and a sense of belonging, regardless of our status or achievements. The feeling of being an underdog is something that resonates with many people. Whether it’s a child who has lost their parents and their status, or a famous musician who still feels the need for more recognition, the desire for status is a deeply human trait. In a recent interview, author Will Storr delves into the complexities of status and power, using the example of Paul McCartney to illustrate how even those with immense success can still feel the need for more.
In the case of McCartney, a man who is beloved and revered by millions, the desire for status is still present. Storr recounts a story where McCartney sought to change the order of songwriting credits with Lennon, feeling that his name should come first. Despite his fame and fortune, McCartney’s desire for more status persisted, leading to a legal threat from Yoko Ono.
Storr explains that the desire for status is a fundamental human trait, one that never truly diminishes. While power may lose its appeal as one gets older, the quest for status is a never-ending cycle of wanting more. It’s not about being the top dog, but about constantly striving to improve one’s position in the hierarchy.
The story of McCartney serves as a reminder that even those with immense success and adoration can still feel the need for more. It’s a universal feeling that transcends wealth and fame, showing that the quest for status is a deeply ingrained part of human nature. And while it may seem petty or pitiful at times, it’s a reminder that we all have our own struggles and desires for recognition, no matter how successful we may be. Academic life can be full of challenges, especially when it comes to determining the order of authors on research papers. With an increasing number of authors collaborating on scientific studies, deciding on the order can be a source of contention. The norm is often to list authors in alphabetical order, but for some individuals like Russ Roberts, whose last name begins with an ‘R,’ this can feel unfair and arbitrary.
In a recent conversation, Russ Roberts shared his thoughts on the issue, highlighting the humor and pettiness that can arise in academic circles over the order of authors. He humorously pointed out that even legendary songwriting duo Lennon McCartney managed to maintain alphabetical order, sparking speculation about how they made that decision.
One common practice in economics, according to Roberts, is to state in acknowledgments that the order of authors was chosen randomly to avoid any implication that the first author is more important or did more work. This attention to detail, even in seemingly minor matters, reflects the competitive nature of academia where status and recognition play a significant role.
The conversation also touched on the concept of status and how people can become fixated on even minor differences in treatment, using the example of a study where one person received slightly less orange juice than others and became preoccupied with the perceived slight. This illustrates how human beings are wired to pay attention to status symbols and how they impact our sense of self-worth.
Will Storr, the author of a book on the psychology of identity, delved into the impact of neoliberalism on societal attitudes and behaviors. He argued that the rise of neoliberal policies championed by leaders like Thatcher and Reagan led to a shift in cultural values from anti-establishment sentiments to a celebration of greed and competition. This transformation, according to Storr, influenced how individuals viewed themselves and their interactions with others, shaping the status games they played.
Storr’s analysis of the cultural changes brought about by neoliberalism raised questions about the impact of economic policies on individual psychology and societal norms. While some may dispute the extent of neoliberalism’s success in achieving its goals, Storr emphasized the profound shifts in values and attitudes that occurred during that era.
Overall, the discussion highlighted the complex interplay between economics, culture, and psychology in shaping our identities and relationships. Whether it’s the order of authors on a research paper or the broader societal impact of neoliberal policies, these issues reflect the deeper human desire for connection, status, and meaning in a rapidly changing world. The debate between Will Storr and Russ Roberts about the cultural changes that took place in the 1980s is a fascinating one that delves into the complexities of individualism, self-interest, and societal norms. Storr argues that the rise of unusual names and increased levels of perfectionism during this time period reflect a shift towards individualism and competitiveness, driven by the policies of leaders like Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan. On the other hand, Roberts sees these changes as more nuanced, pointing out that deregulation and the encouragement of voluntary associations can also be seen as a way to devolve responsibility away from the state and towards individuals and communities.
Storr highlights the cultural influences of the time, such as pop songs like Whitney Houston’s “The Greatest Love of All” and Madonna’s “Material Girl,” which emphasized self-love and materialism. He suggests that these values permeated society and contributed to a change in the Western self, moving towards a more self-centered and transactional sense of identity. Roberts, however, pushes back against the idea that Reagan and Thatcher were solely responsible for this shift, emphasizing the trade-offs between freedom, social norms, and government intervention in shaping cultural changes.
Both Storr and Roberts acknowledge the complexity of the cultural transformations that have taken place over the past few decades, driven by technological advancements, economic shifts, and changing social norms. The debate underscores the ongoing discussion about the balance between individualism and collective action, and the ways in which society navigates these tensions in a rapidly changing world. Ultimately, the conversation between Storr and Roberts serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of cultural change and the need for nuanced analysis in understanding the forces shaping our society. Tribalism and the status game are two deeply ingrained aspects of human behavior that often intersect and intertwine in complex ways. While some may argue that tribalism and status are separate phenomena, others, like Will Storr, believe that they are closely connected. Storr argues that group status plays a significant role in shaping individual identity and behavior, alongside personal achievements and individual status.
In psychology and neuroscience, it is well-established that group status is a fundamental aspect of human social identity. Our sense of self is often intertwined with the groups we belong to, whether it be a sports team, a nationality, or a political affiliation. The wins and losses of our groups can have a profound impact on our emotions and sense of self-worth, as evidenced by the passionate reactions of fans at sporting events or the strong feelings of national pride and identity.
Group narcissism, the tendency for individuals to overestimate the contributions and importance of their own group, is another aspect of how group status influences our behavior. People often exhibit a sense of pride and superiority when it comes to their group, whether it be their nation, ethnicity, or social circle. This sense of group identity can lead to conflicts and competition between different groups, as each seeks to assert its status and dominance.
In the realm of social justice and moral debates, group status can also play a significant role. People often feel a strong sense of injustice and outrage when they perceive their group as being marginalized or disrespected. Issues of truth and justice can become intertwined with questions of group status, as individuals seek validation and recognition for their group’s beliefs and values.
In the modern world, where social media and cancel culture have amplified the importance of group status and moral judgments, it can be challenging to navigate the complex dynamics of the status game. Storr suggests that one way to approach this challenge is to reduce our moral sphere, focusing on our own behavior and beliefs rather than constantly monitoring and judging others. By prioritizing personal integrity and authenticity, we can avoid getting caught up in the endless cycle of moral surveillance and status competition that often characterizes social interactions.
Ultimately, the connection between tribalism and the status game is a multifaceted and nuanced one, with implications for how we perceive ourselves and others in the complex social landscape of the modern world. By understanding the role of group status in shaping our identities and behaviors, we can gain insight into the motivations and conflicts that drive human interactions and relationships. In today’s world, it’s all about where you stand in relation to others. Are you on my side, or are you not on my side? Are you a source of status for me and my group, or are you a threat to our status? These questions can bring about feelings of hatred, aggression, and stress, both towards others and towards oneself. Living in a constant state of judgment, anger, and anxiety about the opinions and actions of others can be exhausting and detrimental to our well-being.
Author Will Storr suggests that we should focus less on judging others and more on honing our own moral behavior. By reducing our moral sphere and concentrating on improving ourselves, we can free ourselves from the negative emotions that come from constantly comparing ourselves to others. This shift in perspective can lead to a more fulfilling and peaceful existence.
Storr’s ideas are reminiscent of a concept in Judaism that encourages self-reflection in times of personal suffering, while maintaining a compassionate and non-judgmental attitude towards the suffering of others. This mindset allows us to use the challenges we face as opportunities for personal growth, without attributing blame or judgment to others for their misfortunes.
In a world where social media magnifies our judgmental tendencies and encourages us to constantly compare ourselves to others, Storr’s advice to focus on self-improvement and distance ourselves from the suffering of others is particularly relevant. By taking a step back from the status game and prioritizing our own growth and well-being, we can navigate the complexities of modern life with a sense of peace and clarity.
So, the next time you feel yourself getting caught up in the whirlwind of judgment and comparison, take a moment to refocus on your own moral behavior and personal growth. By freeing yourself from the need to constantly measure up to others, you can cultivate a sense of inner peace and fulfillment that transcends the superficial trappings of status and comparison.
