Term 'alpha male' being used incorrectly, says expert who helped populate concept

'Alpha chimpanzees are impressive leaders, but the majority are also generous and kind to others because they know respect'

You should not call a bully an alpha male, as these chimpanzees are both impressive leaders and caring, says expert (AFP/Getty Images)

Frans de Waal believes it is time for us to stop insulting the chimps.

In a recent TED talk, the primatologist lamented the popular perception of “alpha males” as brutish, harsh leaders.

“I am actually partly responsible for the term alpha male because I wrote this book Chimpanzee Politics, which was recommended by Newt Gingrich to freshmen congressmen,” he said.

But his research in chimpanzees shows that leadership is more nuanced than that.

Alpha chimpanzees are impressive and intimidating leaders, but the majority of those who rise to the top are also generous and kind to others because they know respect will help them maintain their position at the top, Mr De Waal said.

“You should not call a bully an alpha male,” Mr De Waal said. “Someone who is big and strong and intimidates and insults everyone is not necessarily an alpha male.”

He says many chimpanzees know being kind and loving is a way to win over fans, whether by tickling babies, sharing food, or engaging in a kind of primate political campaign.

Other scientists who have studied the way power dynamics work in humans are uncovering similar truths.

Research suggests that we are more likely to perceive “physically formidable” men as better leaders, but that does not hold true if they are unpleasant. Still, power is a dangerous drug. It can chill your ability to empathise with others because it disengages the prefrontal cortex and deactivates the vagus nerve, which promotes compassion, gratitude, and appreciation.

There is a way to counteract these effects. If leaders feel a heightened sense of social responsibility, they can remain in tune with the needs and views of others.

It seems the chimps are on to the strategy.

“You don’t need to be the biggest and strongest male,” Mr De Waal said. “The smallest male, if he has the right friends and keeps them happy, or he has female support, he can be the alpha male.”

You can watch Mr De Waal’s full 15-minute talk on the “surprising science of alpha males” here:

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