We have so many myths in this country that emphasize the ideology of individualism. Quite often, it seems, those myths portray individualism as no more profound than a reactionary alienation from the group or tribe.

Myths like that of the “rugged individual”, or the “Horatio Alger Story of the Self Made Man”. I think in part because of our myths, our culture and society tends to ignore the human longing for one’s tribe.

But…in the end we are, despite any superficial ideology of individualism we might cling to, both social animals and individuals.

I think it’s very important that we get our images of human nature correct. Because — all too often — when we don’t, we still vote and play politics based on them.