Matter over mind

Published: Friday, March 20, 2026 at 8:40 am

The Mattering Instinct: A Journey Through the Human Psyche

A new book by Princeton philosopher Rebecca Newberger Goldstein explores the fundamental human drive to matter. Titled "The Mattering Instinct," the book delves into the core desire that shapes our actions and motivations. Goldstein argues that every living being is driven by an inherent need to matter to itself, prioritizing its own survival and flourishing.

Goldstein draws upon a wide range of disciplines, including neuroscience, philosophy, and evolutionary biology, to illustrate this concept. She posits that this "mattering instinct" fuels a wide array of human endeavors, from religion and art to science and politics, as well as the darker aspects of human behavior.

The author defines "to matter" as being deserving of attention, both from oneself and others. She then categorizes the ways in which individuals seek to matter, identifying four distinct archetypes: Socializers, who seek to please and connect with others; Heroic Strivers, who pursue excellence in fields like science or morality; Transcenders, who orient their lives around a higher power; and Competitors, who view mattering as a zero-sum game, striving for dominance.

Goldstein's work examines how the desire to matter can manifest in both positive and negative ways. While the drive can lead to great achievements and meaningful connections, it can also contribute to destructive behaviors, such as the pursuit of power and the formation of exclusionary groups. The book highlights the story of Frank Meeink, a former skinhead who found meaning in a white supremacist group before ultimately rejecting that path.

BNN's Perspective: Goldstein's exploration of the "mattering instinct" offers a compelling framework for understanding human behavior. While the categorization of archetypes may oversimplify the complexities of human motivation, the book provides valuable insights into the forces that shape our lives. It encourages readers to reflect on their own motivations and the ways in which they seek to matter in the world.

Keywords: mattering instinct, Rebecca Newberger Goldstein, human behavior, philosophy, psychology, archetypes, socializers, heroic strivers, transcenders, competitors, meaning, motivation, self-worth, identity

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