Alpha male primates often rise to dominance through ruling coalitions, not individual strength.

Evidence

Another manifestation of the arbitrary-set system can be seen in the formation of political coalitions and alliances among high-status primate males. It is not uncommon for certain alpha males (i.e., dominant males) to achieve their dominant positions by forming and maintaining “ruling coalitions” with other high-status males (Leigh & Shea, 1995; Harcourt, 1988). — John T. Jost and Jim Sidanius, Political Psychology, 3261

Categorization

• SHARE: Good for a primatology-interested friend — alpha males aren’t lonely champions; they’re coalition politicians.