Apple TV’s show “Pluribus” introduces a captivating storyline where an alien virus unites the minds of the entire population on Earth into a collective consciousness. This new hive mind eradicates conflict, poverty, and isolation by bringing billions of individuals into perfect harmony. However, amidst this global transformation, Carol Sturka, portrayed by Rhea Seehorn, remains one of the few individuals who have not joined the hive mind. As the last true individual on Earth, Carol struggles to find her place in a world where everyone else is connected in mind and spirit.
The central theme of “Pluribus” revolves around the dichotomy between individuality and collective unity, a concept that has intrigued behavioral psychologists for years. In my book “Fortune’s Formula: the untold story of the scientific gambling system that defeated the casinos and Wall Street,” I delve into a significant experiment that sheds light on this very theme.
Neuroscientist Randy Gallistel conducted an experiment involving rats and human participants to study decision-making based on reward probability. In a T-shaped maze, a treat was hidden at one end, and participants had to guess the correct side to receive the reward. While the rat consistently chose the side with a higher probability of reward, human participants displayed a phenomenon known as “probability matching,” where choices were made in proportion to the likelihood of reward, resulting in a lower success rate compared to the rat.
The concept of probability matching reflects a collective rational approach that benefits the group as a whole. While the rat prioritized individual success, humans, driven by competition and social dynamics, adopted a strategy that distributed choices based on probabilities, reflecting a group-oriented mindset. This behavior aligns with the principles of natural selection, where behaviors that enhance group survival are favored.
In the context of “Pluribus,” the hive mind justifies its actions as a biological imperative aimed at ensuring collective survival rather than individual interests. This selfless and efficient approach, while unsettling to viewers, reflects inherent biological tendencies towards group optimization and survival.
The experiment conducted by Gallistel highlights the complex interplay between individual decision-making and collective behavior, shedding light on the evolutionary roots of group-oriented strategies. As viewers explore the dynamics of the hive mind in “Pluribus,” they are confronted with thought-provoking questions about the nature of individuality, group cohesion, and the underlying biological imperatives that drive human behavior.
In conclusion, “Pluribus” offers a compelling narrative that challenges conventional notions of individuality and collective consciousness, inviting viewers to ponder the intricate balance between personal autonomy and group solidarity. By delving into the complexities of decision-making and social dynamics, the show prompts reflection on the fundamental aspects of human nature and the forces that shape our interactions with others.