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Tribes: A Search for Belonging in a Divided Society
May 25, 2025

Tribes: A Search for Belonging in a Divided Society

A compelling exploration of identity, community, and the forces that both unite and divide us. Blending personal memoir with incisive political analysis, Lammy delves into the complexities of modern tribalism and its impact on society.


In Tribes, David Lammy examines the innate human desire to belong and how this drive shapes our social and political landscapes. Drawing from his experiences as the son of Guyanese immigrants, a barrister, and a long-serving Member of Parliament for Tottenham, Lammy provides a nuanced perspective on the intersections of race, culture, and politics in contemporary Britain.


How Belonging Can Break Society: An analysis of how tribalism can lead to division, highlighting events like Brexit and the rise of identity politics. 

Fallen Figs Book Blog


How Belonging Can Make Society: Proposals for fostering unity, including the promotion of an "encounter culture" that encourages dialogue across differences. 

The Guardian


About the Author

David Lammy is a prominent British politician and social justice advocate. He was the first Black Briton to study at Harvard Law School and has served as the MP for Tottenham since 2000. Lammy has been instrumental in campaigns for the Windrush generation and justice for Grenfell Tower fire victims. 


Key Themes

Identity and Belonging: Exploration of personal and collective identities in a multicultural society.


The Dual Nature of Tribalism: Understanding how tribal affiliations can both support and hinder societal cohesion.


Political Polarisation: Insights into how modern politics exploits tribal divisions.


Pathways to Unity: Recommendations for building inclusive communities through shared experiences and mutual understanding.


Product Details

  • Title: Tribes: A Search for Belonging in a Divided Society
  • Author: David Lammy
  • Publisher: Constable
  • Publication Date: February 18, 2021
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 368
  • ISBN: 9781472128720


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