The Term “Alpha Male” Was Never Meant to Mean Bully
The phrase "alpha male" has received a lot of criticism and conjures up strong mental imagery. The majority of people would understand the word "alpha male" to mean, at best, a guy who is aggressive, forceful, and domineering or, at worst, someone who demonstrates what is typically referred to as toxic masculinity. There is clearly some overlap, but neither of them really captures the essence of what the term is meant to convey.
Biology, and more specifically, studies of animals, gave rise to the phrase "alpha male." Numerous animal species maintain communal lifestyles, with one male appearing to play a dominant or alpha role. Inadequately, this has been simplified to the notion that an alpha male is the biggest, strongest guy who seizes control and put downs any disagreement. That is untrue.
Based on his years of research, primatologist Frans de Waal, who helped popularize the phrase "alpha male," explains what a "alpha male" actually is. To be succinct, an alpha guy must be giving, compassionate, and able to maintain harmony. They are cherished and revered, yet they are not feared or despised. De Waal makes it abundantly obvious that being a bully has nothing to do with being an alpha male and that this is only a cursory understanding of the concept.
