Are Alpha Males Real?

In the Good Men Project Tom Matlack talked recently about re-defining the Alpha Male. The issue of the Alpha male is something I have talked about before.

He talks about re-defining what an Alpha Male is,

“…perhaps we humans, particularly the males of the species, can rethink what it means to be an alpha male. “Since we seem to be stuck with the word alpha,” said Owens, “how about redefining the term so it’s no longer about dominance and aggression and more in line with the leadership role that good parents exhibit?” If we use that definition, then I’d like to think that I’m an alpha male — someone with strong leadership qualities rooted in compassion, kindness, and consideration for others.”

Well I agree with him, although I would add other qualities such as presence and focus but my regular readers will know that. My issue though is not with his concept but with the idea that we can change people’s definition of what an Alpha Male is. For me there are too many people out there promoting the aggressive view of Alpha Males, selling pick-up guides and generally giving men a bad name. The idea is so deep rooted, certainly on the internet, because it suits many men who like to avoid their emotions and any sense of responsibility.

I would like to see a new definition that encapsulates the idea of a dominant male who has compassion, a sense of responsibility and strong leadership qualities. I have thought about this and would like to propose the term ‘Re-Awakened Man’. This term arises from the idea that we are all born with the qualities of masculinity we need in this life. During our life we are conditioned by parents, society and events to suppress or contain many of these qualities. This core essence needs re-awakening to enable the full essence of a man’s masculinity to re-appear.

I would be interested in my reader’s reaction to name or whether any of you have any other suggestions. Let me know by commenting on this post.