The mainstream research on irrationality has been almost exclusively focused on intra-individual processes. This includes research in the domains of cognitive science, justice, personality, and leadership. The evolutionary perspective has been used to try to address collective processes but, it is far more effective at explaining inter-personal or small group behavior, rather than the kinds of large groups and macro processes typically involved in collective irrationality. The social constructionist approach does highlight the subjective nature of irrationality. However, the social constructionist approach has the disadvantage of being associated with relativism and a lack of attention to hard-wiring and human universals. Although they are limited in number, human universals are important and can serve a foundational role in improving how we organize society. Research inspired by materialist theories, system justification theory, and the social identity tradition shows a higher potential for contributing to a better understanding of collective irrationality.