How And Why We Play Social Status Games - Will Storr

The Status Game

Ali Abdaal and Will Storr explore the concept of the status game, highlighting its pervasive influence on human behavior. Will explains that we all engage in various status games, each with unique symbolic markers, much like the pieces in a game of Monopoly 1. These games are not inherently negative; rather, they can drive us to achieve greater things in life. Ali notes that the pursuit of status is often misunderstood as purely negative, but it can motivate us to improve ourselves and our lives 2.

The pursuit of status is often seen as a negative thing, but it can actually drive us to do bigger and better things with our lives.

--- Ali Abdaal

Will's research into status began with his book "Selfie," which examined Western individualism and narcissism, leading him to realize the importance of status in human interactions 3.

   

Need for Status

Status is described as a crucial social nutrient, essential for psychological and physical well-being. Will Storr explains that when individuals are deprived of status, they can experience psychological distress, including depression and anxiety 4. This need for status is deeply rooted in our evolutionary past, where higher status meant better resources and survival prospects 5.

Status is this kind of social nutrient. It's an essential kind of thing that we need. We need to feel respected and valued by the people around us.

--- Will Storr

Ali Abdaal reflects on his motivations, acknowledging that status plays a significant role in his pursuits, such as podcasting and writing, despite the potential for negative perceptions 6.

   

Different Status Games

Different people engage in status games in varied ways, influenced by cultural, social, and personal values. Will Storr shares an anecdote about meeting someone from a different background, highlighting how each person measures status differently based on their criteria, such as physical strength or intellectual achievements 7. Understanding these differences can help us navigate social interactions more effectively.

We have different ways of measuring status...we're not all competing with each other. We're playing different status games.

--- Will Storr

He also emphasizes the importance of being generous with status, suggesting that life improves when we freely give status to others, as it fosters positive relationships 8. Additionally, Will notes that perceptions of status can vary widely, with some viewing material possessions as status symbols, while others find status in non-materialistic values 9.