It goes without saying that the world is in really bad way right now. As I write this, nations all around the globe are struggling to contain a global pandemic that has already claimed over 100,000 lives, infected more than 1.6 million people, and left millions more financially devastated. In addition to this, entire countries are locked down as shelter in place restrictions attempt to slow the spread of a virus that is overwhelming healthcare systems and has already significantly altered the course of human history.
Covid-19 is everywhere. It’s on our televisions and radios; in our newspapers and magazines. It’s on the tips of our tongues when we talk to our friends and family, and in the back of our minds with just about every decision we make.
Right now the world appears to be stuck in this morbid state of doom and gloom. We’re afraid. And we should be. We’re living through a fucking scary time with no clear ending in sight. We don’t know how long shelter in place restrictions will be needed, if our jobs are safe, or even when we’ll be able to see our loved ones again. But we do know that while each of us is trying their best to get through this pandemic, we’re collectively at risk of being overcome by the gravity of our situation if all we do is consume negativity.
So rather than talk directly about how Covid-19 has reshaped our lives, I want to talk about the relationship between the pandemic we’re living through and a long-misconstrued societal belief whose etymology is derived from wolves instead.
About a year ago, I was visiting my Mum interstate. As we often do when I go home to see her, we were sitting around her kitchen drinking coffee and talking; catching up about all the little things that never seem to come up in conversation when we’re on the phone. I have no idea why, but for some reason our conversation on this particular day turned to the subject of masculinity; and in true Chris Nicholas fashion, my over confidence was on full display. As someone in his thirties who has experienced death, battles with mental health and masochistic behaviour, financial ruin, failed relationships, and family illness, I considered myself to be a man. I have taken a few big hits in life, and although I’ve been knocked down more times than I can count, I have always found a way to stand back up and face whatever life threw at me next.
But as Mum and I waxed philosophical about what it meant to be a man, she told me that she never really considered me to be a stereotypical alpha-male. The comment was supposed to be a compliment; and part of me took it that way. As a society, we often perceive an alpha character as a dominant individual with greater access to power, money, and respect. These people are often abrasive, intimidating, and sit at the top of a social status hierarchy.
When compared to these criteria, I wasn’t, am still am not an alpha-male. I like to keep fit, but am by no means the most powerful person I know. I’m prepared to fight for what I believe in, but I’ll never initiate conflict or be perceived as intimidating. And I have a couple of bucks in my back pocket, but I’m not exactly rolling around in piles of cash making frivolous investments without a care in the world. And yet, despite not meeting any of the criteria that society needed to consider me an alpha, Mum’s well-intentioned comment rankled me. Because if I wasn’t an alpha, then what was I?
So, I started researching what it truly meant to be an alpha.
The term alpha as society now knows it was first coined in during the 1940s by Rudolph Schenkel of the University of Basel in Switzerland as he studied a pack of grey wolves held captive in a zoo. During his study Schenkel observed as the wolves competed for status within their own sex, until over time, the pack established a clearly defined alpha pair, documenting his findings and sharing them with the world. Then almost thirty years later, the American scientist L. David Mech penned a book called The Wolf which built upon Schenkel’s findings and helped to popularise the concept of alpha and beta wolves within the pack.
Throughout their respective papers, both researchers noted pack dynamics that used competition to define rank. The duo used the phrase alpha to identify the wolves who used domineering, violence, and aggression to become the clear leader of a pack. The savage imagery that these papers presented was hugely appealing to popular culture, particularly in mediums such as film where an alpha could be defined as a win at all cost protagonist who would burn down an entire village just to serve his own selfish ends.
And so, thanks in part to these two studies (and a myriad of similar research papers), society began to use term alpha wolf as a term of endearment to define those members of our society that climbed the social, financial, or political hierarchy at any cost. Thanks to stylised film and television, it became cool to be seen as a badass who didn’t give a shit, and who used animalistic dominance to achieve their goals. Because these characteristics were typically given to male roles within movies, the phrase was adapted, and the alpha wolf became the alpha male. He was the asshole you hated for his ruthlessness, but admired for his success.
But it turns out that the studies used to define the hierarchy of man were flawed. The wolves in the two researcher’s studies weren’t in their natural environment while under observation. They were captives forced to coexist in a foreign climate that stunted their natural instinct. And so, operating in a high-stress situation, they turned on each other and used violence to determine their pack structure.
In the late 20th and early 21st century, researchers began to question the findings of Schenkel and Mech, tracking grey wolves in the wild to test their hypotheses. Until this point scientists had believed that independent and unrelated grey wolves formed packs each winter out of necessity. They thought that wolves lived in close proximity, and banded together during winter to increase their chances of survival, using dominance and violence to establish their pack’s structure.
But through this process of tracking the movements of packs, researchers learned that a pack isn’t a group of individuals drawn together by circumstance, it is a nuclear family of wolves that consists of two parents, and their children. The alpha of a pack is not the most violent, or aggressive. The alpha is simply a paternal figure who co-parents his offspring with his mate.
In his natural habitat, the alpha, like so many great father figures in our own species, treats his family with love, generosity and kindness. He’s notorious for playful roughhousing with his pups, and is even known to pay special attention to the upbringing of the runt of a litter. That doesn’t mean that the alpha is all warm and fuzzy though; wolves are still incredibly dangerous apex predators. And the alpha will ferociously protect his pack against a threat when he needs to. But, as renowned wolf researcher Richard McIntyre says:
The main characteristic of an alpha male wolf is a quiet confidence; quiet self-assurance. You know what you need to do; you know what’s best for your pack. You lead by example. You’re very comfortable with that.
Which means that not only did researchers like Schenkel and Mech get it wrong when they assumed that being an alpha meant being domineering (a viewpoint that Mech later recanted). But it also means that society has it wrong when we assume an alpha to be intimidating or powerful; or even that their purpose in life is to serve themselves. Those are the characteristics of an asshole. An alpha is calm, level headed, knows what is best for their pack, and isn’t afraid to put the need of others above their own. They show sensitivity and love to those they care for, and are willing to do violence only when necessary.
Perhaps if my mum were to compare me against these criteria, rather than the misguided version of an alpha popular culture has led us to believe in, her opinion about whether I am a stereotypical alpha-male might have been different.
You’re probably wondering what any of this has to do Covid-19…
And you’d be right for doing so. The truth is, the concept of being an alpha has as much to do with Covid-19 as you allow it to.
As I said at the top of this post, the world is a very scary place right now. We’re surrounded by a perpetual feeling of doom and gloom. We’re worried about our families, our livelihood, and our future. But through all this uncertainty, we as individuals have been afforded with the opportunity to do something great. And that greatness is to be calm, to lead by example, and to be who your loved ones need you to be during a difficult time.
The last thing this world needs right now is the version of an alpha that society has been misled to believe is true. We already have an overabundance of assholes who put their needs before everyone else’s even without the added stresses of a global pandemic. Instead, the world needs more true alphas; leaders within family and friendship units who recognise that we’re living in uncertain times, who understand what their pack needs, and who have the self-assuredness and confidence to support and nurture the people they care about.
Whether that support is making your partner a cup of tea, turning off the television to play with your kids, or just phoning to check in on your friend or relative who may be struggling, every little moment of kindness matters in a time like this.
Years from now future generations are going to learn about the Covid-19 pandemic in schools. They’re going to learn about the lives lost, countries locked down, and the stories of human compassion that kept us all together. When that time comes, imagine how rewarding it would be to tell them that during one of the defining moments of our generation, you had what it took to be a true alpha, and that you made a difference in the lives of those you cared about. That rather than being a domineering asshole who thought the world revolved around you, you showed kindness and generosity even when others around you may not have. That you kept people safe, made sure that they were loved, and played your small part in a global effort to overcome adversity.
I know that it may not seem like it right now, but eventually this pandemic will pass, and our lives will return to some semblance of normality. It’s just going to take some time. Until then, stay home, stay safe, support your loved ones, and be a wolf.
Share this:
The Renegade Press 
You present a valid concern that pops mighty good questions. However, all in life has nothing to do with Alpha, not even the male essence. All is about missing a core element. That element is the opposite of what you talked about with your mom. It is the feminine energy. Having the presence of healthy feminine energy does not make less of a man, nor being the Alpha in groups. It is a necessary balance from the energy fields in your mind, body, soul, and emotions that create the whole, the complete essence of what human life is. Sometimes some men consider the feminine energy as the shadow in life. (Check Carl Jung) It is contrary and the result that proves such is that all relations either improve or worsen when lacking this element. The Alpha part comes after that – in men or women. That is just a role among people. The male and female energy are the vital parts that define all life. One without the other one simply does not exist, therefore can’t work. That is the Yin Yang of life in our species. No pun intended.
Intriguing and delightful read!
The morning was sunny with the first hint of Fall. As the junior light-keeper my shift didn’t start till noon. So my wife and I decided to walk to the back of the island with our six or so month old daughter who I carried in a carrier on my chest. Ten minutes into the forest we spotted what we thought was a large wet dog just off the boardwalk.
Tourists often anchored behind the island and we just assumed a tourist had let their dog out for a run. As he was sitting and was looking like he wanted to get to know us I left the boardwalk and gently approached.
When I got within his, or her comfort zone he stood up moved away and sat down. Not wishing to annoy him I decided to respect his comfort zone. We had a short chat and then the family continued our walk.
To our surprise there was no anchored boat at the back of the island. When we walked back we didn’t spot our new four legged acquaintance. Forty plus years later that chance meeting with a friendly wolf continues to fill me with awe.
Brian
Dogs and wolfs guard alpha leaders
A great read.
I feel uplifted that the assholes at work are nothing more than that and that I can now identify the true alpha male amongst my colleagues.
Regards Mik.
I’m thankful to be able to read a man’s own musings on masculinity; it’s something I wouldn’t get to witness otherwise. I enjoyed reading and appreciate this analysis and dissection of what a truly good/”alpha” man looks like.
Thanks for making others aware of the flawed research. I knew of these studies and think the alpha male concept is still widely used for dog training and, unfortunately, in child rearing.
Very well written, uplifting and inspiring!
I really like the way you constructed this piece. Anyone who visits his mum, listens to her, and thinks deeply about her words – is an ALPHA. And yes, I do still believe for both men and women the admonition: “Do not mistake my kindness for weakness.” It takes a confident and strong person to be sensitive and empathetic.
Interesting post 👍🌸
Really liked reading your writing here. We all need to be that kind of a “good” wolf that you described here. Take care. Sincerely, Connie Webb
Here’s a little something from the most powerful man in the world when he wrote it:
“Kindness is invincible — if it is sincere, not fawning or pretense. What can the most aggressive man do to you if you continue to be kind to him?”
— Marcus Aurelius (Roman Emperor), Meditations 11.18.9
Beautifully explained! Hopefully the definition of brave and heroic will change after this pandemic and hopefully, the future will see love and compassion as the best cure for hatred and anxiety, and forgiveness, as a heroic act.
You are an extremely gifted writer and your voice seems so familiar. Very impressive.
One of the phrases your post reminded me about is the kindness of reaching in to someone’s life. We find it easy to say “Reach out if you’re struggling.” But when you’re stuck in that hole, looking up that cliff face, or see that endless chasm in front of you it can feel impossible to reach out. If you see someone friends or family in need, or even if they seem ok, reach in and spend some quality time with them. That may have to be on the phone or vis a video call, but it will be worth it.
Thank you the eloquence and honesty in your words.
Thank you for writing an eloquent analysis on masculinity, as a man. It’s always harder to look within than it is to reflect on external influences. I believe the true version of an alpha is what most teenagers on the internet would call a “simp.”
Great post. Thx for sharing.
Beautifully written, and I couldn’t agree more 😊
Nice comparison. If only the nerds ran the world.
Thank you for taking back the term “alpha” and for the hope in this post. We all need it right now.
Thank you for taking back the term “alpha” and for the hope in this post. The world needs it right now.
Very thoughtful post. I enjoyed (re) reading it this quiet Sunday morning. Any plans for another post soon?
Thank you for this thoughtful and important piece about how masculinity and kindness are ANYTHING BUT mutually exclusive — your introspection and high-quality contribution to that conversation is greatly appreciated. And thank you also for helping to dispel some of the deeply entrenched misconceptions about wolves that have made the species a target of persecution for hundreds of years and that continue to endanger its survival today.
Well written. And from a girl’s perspective, we term a guy alpha male when he is being a sterotypical guy.. when we puts his needs above others, not at all understanding. Wants his partners to be submissive.. He has this desire to be on top and always be the powerful one. The beta guys (rest of guys) can be powerful too. But they see it as a responsibility, they are thoughtful, etc.
Well written and a view point I wholly agree with. What a pity so many bought into the conclusions of researchers who misunderstood what they were seeing! Much of the mess we are in today arises from leaders who’ve embraced the earlier concept of an ‘alpha’, rather than the true pack structure that would help us survive these turbulent times. Thank you for an excellent read!
I like this bit. “An alpha is calm, level headed, knows what is best for their pack, and isn’t afraid to put the need of others above their own. They show sensitivity and love to those they care for, and are willing to do violence only when necessary.” Nicely supported thinking.
Please follow our fb page https://facebook.com/mobidigits.in
Thanks for taking time away from your writing to visit my blog!
While I am not a man, as a therapist, I consider not being the alpha-male a compliment. All the best down under…
I absolutely agree, both on how to go about the pandemic and how the true alpha should be seen. This reminds me a lot about “Boss vs Leader” memes. Everyone should be a leader, helping each other, their pack of various sizes and levels, rather than exhausting the resources that could be used by everyone. Unfortunately, the term alpha is now taken by by successful assholes, even if they are only successful for five minutes before leading everyone off a cliff, which is surprisingly common. At least, we’ve got a clearer image of a “leader” character, and that is a good one to follow.
By the way, thanks for stopping by at my new blog, this does oddly relate to your nature of a leader that caringly nurtures those around him 😀
What a great great post ! Loved it thank you!
Heyy!! Your posts are truly wonderful to read!!!!! This post is soo true and Interesting to read!!! Also, I’m fairly new here (I’ve just been blogging for a month now) and it would be really nice if you could check out my site and let me know some feedback (or follow it if you like it 😂) so that I can make it better!! Your experience can help me make my site better! https://whatareuuptoduringthelockdown.wordpress.com/
Thank you sooo much 😊
Great read. Let’s hope this crazy year gives us all time to reflect on what we need and appreciate in others.
Really interesting, and so well argued and written
Thanks for the like on my site! I really hope I’ll grow big writer soon.
Interesting post and thank you, Chris!
True masculinity abides in a peaceful man. Your words are beautiful 💯💯
Loved this piece! Very interesting to know exactly what the term ‘alpha male’ was supposed to mean, and how that changed. I cannot agree with you more – society need more of the right kind of ‘alpha males’, it will change the world into a better place. Nobody needs arrogant and violent people in their lives.
Very well written, Chris. You’ve captured a biblical definition of manhood (see Psalm 112 for more characteristics) that relies not on wealth and power but wisdom, generosity, selflessness, and love. Best wishes to you! (And thanks for “liking” my blog, too.)
Really loved this one. ALPHA in true sense.
Enjoyed the read.🙏
That was a great read!
Amazing text! I always loved the gray wolf, such a stunning animal. There is a wonderful documentary about their reintroduction to the Yellowstone National Park. Loved how they brought life into the place.
Thank you for your likes!
I enjoyed this post!
A truly interesting read Chris
A very good read. An interesting and elucidating post.
Where are you? We miss you 💙
Good morning, sir writer! I am interested in, and read, your comments about being a writer. I can relate! I wonder how you found my blog.
Just stumbled across this post and love the nuanced vision on what being a leader is, what perhaps true masculinity is. Thank you for your thoughts.