Evolutionary Psychology has shown that collective aggression toward out-group members in some specific situations, is part of the human behavioral repertoire. The human mind contains mechanisms designed for the formation of alliances and coalitions. This psychological mechanism, called "Us versus Them", influences individuals to assume a contrary or a favorable attitude in relation to a given group and may generate violent conflicts. One way whereby this mental process is manifested is through race categorization. The human being uses various cues to categorize groups, among them skin color. This is a plastic and dynamic process, which can change depending on the social context.
race; categorization; coalition; evolutionary psychology; evolution