Pluralism and the Power of Overlapping Allegiances

What if the secret to freedom is not unity, but diversity? In Suicide of the West, Goldberg argues that pluralism—the multiplication of institutions and identities—is the foundation of the modern Miracle. For most of history, people belonged to a single tribe, faith, or class. Now, we can be many things at once.



Pluralism is not automatic. Our brains are wired for about 150 relationships, according to Dunbar’s Number. Larger societies need rules, institutions, and stories to function. When pluralism thrives, no single group can dominate. Difference is not just tolerated, but celebrated.

But pluralism is always at risk. When identity becomes singular—when one group claims all the power—the old tribal battles return. The health of a society depends on the richness of its institutions and the openness of its hearts.



To defend pluralism, we must teach its value, support competing institutions, and celebrate the many ways of belonging. The future depends on our willingness to embrace difference and build bridges, not walls.

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