Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging by Sebastian Junger

Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging by Sebastian Junger is an exploration of how veterans of war use the bond of tribalism in order to cope with the trauma of battle. The book also delves into how an individual’s sense of meaning and purpose contributes to their physical and emotional wellness. By drawing on his own combat experience, Junger’s research, and interviews with veterans, he explains how the bond of tribalism can help war veterans to reconnect with their home and society upon returning from the battlefield.

The book begins with Junger’s personal experience during his deployment in Afghanistan. Junger becomes witness to the horrific reality of war and wants to, “to perform his job and his duty to his country” (Junger, 2016, pg. 3). His experience shocks him and, upon returning home, he begins to understand why service members miss the tight bonds they experienced in combat after returning home.

Junger states that the death and destruction associated with war is shocking and can cause long-lasting trauma. This can lead to issues adjusting to life back home and this is why veterans join together and march in parades, or take part in barbecues and other social activities. This helps veterans reconnect with their tribal roots and this deep, psychological connection helps them adjust to civilian life.

Junger continues on to discuss how tribalism can be beneficial for veterans in civilian life. He examines how tribes can be a way for veterans to deal with the trauma of war. By relying on the idea of “us versus them”, the tribe allows veterans to feel a sense of purpose and belonging, no matter their geographical location. This bond can provide comfort and help veterans to cope with their individual issues.

Junger then discusses how tribalism can help combat the isolation and alienation that veterans may feel after returning home. By embracing this idea, veterans can build positive and rewarding relationships with those around them and find the sense of camaraderie that was lacking in their homecoming. The book concludes with Junger hoping that civilians can better understand their military experience and recognize how the bond of tribalism can help to heal the psychological and emotional wounds of war.

Overall, Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging is an eye-opening look into the military experience. Junger explains the psychological factors of war and not only examines how tribalism can help veterans cope, but he reflects on his own experiences and how building a tribe can help create a sense of belonging and happiness. While the focus of the book is on veterans, the messages of the book can be applied to anyone–especially those whose lives have been deeply impacted by tragedy. For anyone looking to better understand tribalism and how it can help in healing, Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging is an invaluable resource.