Alpha males do exist in the animal kingdom, but they’re probably not what you think. The term ‘alpha male’ gained popularity after researchers in the 1940s documented male wolves competing aggressively for dominance.
According to the narrative, the overall victor or ‘alpha male’ then ruled the pack with an iron paw. Wolves became the poster child for the ‘alpha male’ concept – until researchers realised that they’d got it somewhat wrong.
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That’s because this early research was on captive wolves. In the wild, wolves don’t behave like this. There is no dominance-based hierarchy and ‘alpha males’ aren’t pack leaders, just parents looking out for their family.
Popular culture, however, wasn’t interested. The term ‘alpha male’ had become etched into public consciousness, where it remains to this day, synonymous with ruthlessness and aggression.
While wolves may not have alphas, some other species, such as lions and gorillas, do. Alpha males (and sometimes females) occur in gregarious species that have social hierarchies. The alpha male is simply the highest-ranking male in a population, but the position comes with privileges.
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In primate species where alpha males exist, they often get first dibs on food and mating opportunities, but this comes at a cost. Alphas also have responsibility for protecting the group from predators, and have to defend their position at the top.
This can be stressful and energetically demanding. Alphas can’t do it alone, so successful alphas aren’t solitary leaders – they’re team players who forge strategic alliances with others.
This explains, how in chimp society at least, even small males can rise to alpha status. Being big is an advantage, but not a necessity when supported by a close group of allies. In return, the alpha must be prepared to reward his associates with access to females or other perks. So, being an alpha isn’t all about strength: it’s about politics, too.
Chimp alphas also rely on diplomacy to consolidate their position as leader. According to primatologist Frans de Waal, successful alphas display two key behaviours. First, they are peacekeepers. The alpha position is less likely to be challenged while there is harmony in the ranks, so alphas are swift to break up squabbles. Second, they take time to console and comfort others. This makes them loved and respected.
Cast aside their reputation, and we can learn a thing or two from animal alphas, who teach us that the best way to rule is sometimes not through fear and intimidation, but through kindness and empathy.
