Global Belonging: From Conflict and Exclusion to Untapped Potential

Abstract

This chapter presents a critical review of belonging research, positing that the pursuit of belonging, while a fundamental human need, embodies complexities that profoundly influence the self. By integrating interdisciplinary perspectives, the chapter explores the intricate interplay between individual and collective identities in the context of belonging. This approach incorporates both etic (universal) and emic (culturally specific) perspectives on belonging through two parts. The first section in the chapter entitled, The Dark Side of Belonging: Exclusion and division explores the inherent tensions within the construct of belonging. This section examines how belonging can be weaponized, considers the psychological impact of exclusion, explores geopolitical divisions and antisocial behavior, and scrutinizes how social categorizations and identity while creating opportunities for belonging, can concurrently create exclusion, othering, and ostracism. The second section, The Light Side of Belonging: A path to flourishing, proposes an expansive and globalized conceptualization of belonging, drawing inspiration from the Overview Effect observed in space psychology. It posits that cultivating a sense of global belonging and shared humanity can transcend the limitations of traditional categorizations of in-groups/out-groups dynamics. This section explores how this broadened sense of belonging might influence individual behavior and perceptions in the face of global challenges, such as geopolitical divisions and climate destruction, potentially fostering a more collective and flourishing global community. By examining belonging through an overview lens, the chapter contributes to the volume’s mission of exploring the self in context, specifically a global belonging context.