This is a highly perceptive post, Knut.  American tribalism among the "non-advancers" of society.  This helps explain why many white poor support Republicans against their own economic interests, and especially why they support dunce-friendly leaders like Bush.

It's not just social conservatism trumping their economic interests.  It's also, for some: "Rah Rah Tribe. I vote stupid."

Now what I just wrote demeans some rural and poor white folk, so I want to caveat it by adding two thoughts:

1. The characterization I made above only describes some rural or poor whites.  I'm not sure what percentage.
2. There are positive aspects of tribalism too -- such as the generosity and support small town people are apt to give one another, and the tribes friendliness and solidarity among its own people.