To argue over such things as identity politics is missing the real point. Life is like an iceberg. Most of it is unseen below the water. So humans keep missing the heart of issues because the heart of many are hidden out of sight below the water line.

What folks are calling identity politics is just good old fashion negative tribalism. Every human is wired to rally around commonalities and to fear and hate the “other” — from race, religion, geographical regions to enemy sports teams. This impulse is center in the base mind’s, primitive ego.

The way folks rise above primitive ego is via inherent or developed intellect. I’m not talking about mechanical IQ smarts, but intellect as meaning the ability to see the big picture, that which fosters a more inclusive perspective of life.

Because America is such a large multidimensional nation, the tribal impulse, both positive and negative, will always play a huge role in its political aspects, making great hunting grounds for demagogues and would-be dictators like Donald J. trump.