When we default to assertively promoting “identity” in politics, business, media and so on, to the detriment of looking at people, as unique individuals with talents and foibles, we end up less educated and worse off. It is too blunt an instrument.

We are in an era, where those with an “agenda” (equality, fossil fuels, public education) are seeking to coerce or exert tremendous normative pressure (“with us or against us”) on public opinion, which in turn fosters greater tribalism (rules).

Yet our own history tells us in the past 40 years, life (changing societal norms) is really far more nuanced. The most successful and sustainable changes occur when people see it in their self-interest to adapt their own behaviour (drink driving, smoking in the workplace, embrace technology).

Tags: managing change