Scott Alexander analyzes the Elizabeth Hoover case to explore the complexities of racial identity, lived experience, and the ethics of cultural appropriation. Longer summary

Scott Alexander examines the case of Elizabeth Hoover, a professor who believed she was Native American but later discovered she wasn't, to explore the concept of race and lived experience. He discusses the complexities of defining race, the problems with basing identity solely on genetics or lived experience, and the ethical implications of cultural appropriation and affirmative action. The post critiques the harsh treatment Hoover received, suggesting it's a result of cancel culture and an overly rigid application of rules about cultural identity. Scott argues for a more nuanced and compassionate approach to such cases, highlighting the potential cruelty of retroactively invalidating someone's identity based on genetic tests. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander examines tribalism, arguing that ideologies often serve as 'rallying flags' for tribes rather than defining their core identity. Longer summary

Scott Alexander explores the concept of tribalism, arguing that ideologies and beliefs often serve as 'rallying flags' for tribes rather than being the core of what defines them. He examines various examples including religious sects, disability communities, and online subcultures to illustrate how tribes form, develop, and sometimes dissolve. The post suggests that understanding groups as tribes with historical context rather than purely ideological entities can provide insight into many social phenomena and conflicts. Shorter summary