Tribes, Niches, Movements and What Matters

Seth Godin calls them "tribes." They are groups of people gathered around a particular idea or interest. I've thought in terms of "niches" and the communities that form around them, but I hesitate to refer to these as "tribes." Why? A tribe in ancient times was normally fairly exclusive (you're either a member or not, and no divided loyalties) and were based on necessity. In contrast, a person can participate in multiple modern niche communities (except, of course, that it might pose a challenge to be a Windows fanboy and a Linux geek at the same time) and normally none of these groups are truly life-or-death (we hope) for those who join.

In any event, Mr. Godin makes it sound compelling, exciting and perhaps even essential that we form more and more of these "tribes." He gives examples of people striving to serve others and thus making their lives more meaningful. He closes with a challenge to form a movement in 24 hours.

Could you do that? I couldn't. At least, not in 24 hours!

Given the capacity for networking we now have via the Internet, it isn't impossible for someone to find people who share a passion and bring them together for a purpose. It might take longer than 24 hours, but I believe it can be done. It has been done and continues happening.

What do you think?

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Not too long ago I mulled over what motivated people to start new efforts and bring people together to do good things. It gets a little preachy at the end (you've been warned), but have a look at Three Cups, Leaving Microsoft and the Book of Acts. I'm trying to think long and hard over what I might do.