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Imagined orders bind societies together from "summary" of Unstoppable Us by Yuval Noah Harari
One of the most intriguing aspects of human societies is the power of imagined orders. These are the shared beliefs and norms that shape our collective behavior, despite being intangible and abstract. From religions to nations to money, imagined orders bind us together and provide a sense of cohesion and belonging. These imagined orders are not based on objective reality, but rather on shared myths and narratives that we collectively believe in. For example, the value of money is not inherent in the physical paper or metal it is printed on, but in the collective agreement that it holds value and can be exchanged for goods and services. This ability to create and believe in imagined orders is what sets humans apart from other animals. It allows us to cooperate on a large scale, form complex societies, and build civilizations. Without imagined orders, it would be impossible to have institutions like governments, corporations, or even sports teams. However, these imagined orders are also sources of division and conflict. Different groups may subscribe to different sets of beliefs and norms, leading to competition, discrimination, and even violence. For example, religious conflicts, nationalistic rivalries, and economic disparities are all fueled by the imagined orders that we create and uphold.- Imagined orders are essential for the functioning of society. They provide a framework for cooperation, coordination, and organization that enables us to achieve great feats and overcome challenges. In essence, imagined orders are the glue that holds societies together, for better or for worse.
