Haidt introduces the concept of the 'hive switch,' a psychological mechanism that allows individuals to transcend self-interest and become part of a cohesive group. Group activities like rituals or synchronized movements trigger this switch, fostering unity and collective identity. 'We have the ability (under special conditions) to transcend self-interest and lose ourselves (temporarily and ecstatically) in something larger than ourselves,' Haidt notes, emphasizing the role of collective experiences in social cohesion. | Jonathan Haidt | The Righteous Mind

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The Hive Switch and Collective Effervescence

Haidt introduces the concept of the 'hive switch,' a psychological mechanism that allows individuals to transcend self-interest and become part of a cohesive group. Group activities like rituals or synchronized movements trigger this switch, fostering unity and collective identity. 'We have the ability (under special conditions) to transcend self-interest and lose ourselves (temporarily and ecstatically) in something larger than ourselves,' Haidt notes, emphasizing the role of collective experiences in social cohesion.

-- Jonathan Haidt