Wacky Group Overcomes Threat Together

Forget ice age, this is a new movie detailing the events of yet another wacky group! This unlikely team comprises of the Fox’s family, the Mole’s family, the Badger’s family, and the Rabbit’s family. So how did this group with such a united variety of animal species emerge in the first place? Well, first they do have similar behavioral standards. All four families happen to be diggers; they dig out their houses and live in holes. Secondly, they have a collective identity shared between them because they are neighbors residing in the same hill. Last but not least, (and the factor that perhaps forced them to work together), the 3 families face a common enemy – three farmers’ intent on their destruction. And this sets the platform for their unity against these humans. They hence become interdependent on each other for survival. As seen in the clip above, Mr. Fox asks for their various strengths so that the group may depend on them -

Mole: “I can see in the dark.”
Rabbit: “I’m fast!”
Badger: “Demolitions Expert.”
And Mr. Fox, as the title of the film suggests, is full of wit.

It is through identifying such strengths that tasks may be assigned to each animal, and members can assume their given roles more effectively.

It may seem strange that the rabbits are willing to cooperate with the foxes, even on the grounds of protecting their home, but it is important to consider what the rabbit gains from teaming up with its natural predator. In the movie, the group digs deep underground and creates tunnels leading to each of the farmer's cellar. There they steal food, enough to keep the fox's stomach preoccupied, and enough to keep every animal satisfied and well fed. Hence both the individual's needs and the group's needs are fitted quite nicely and there is no conflict. The rewards gained from being part of the group is having a share of the spoils, with no casualties. At the same time every member with their unique talents helps in the getting of the food, showing their allegiance and commitment to the group.

As with all tight allegiances, groupthink may occur. This unusual team may very well, in future, possess the illusion that they are unstoppable, and that they can always get away with their thefts. A sense of collective rationalisation may also grow amongst them, with the code of survival the primary reason why they continue to steal. The remedy for groupthink however, is near at hand. Although external to the group, the 3 devious farmers serve as devil's advocates, as their presence will continue to ensure the animal group does not get too cocky with themselves. One careless arrogant mistake and the farmers will kill them.

Speaking of which, we should not forget the farmers, who could use some empathy. As it is, they are up against 4 animal families (if we add every single family member there'd be an army, so we are just looking at family type which fits into the optimum group number). If you had a choice, would you join the farmers in their expedition to rid the hill of the 'pests' ? They do need 2 more people to form a group and you could be their next new member!