Over the past few years, you may have come across several humorous videos on your news feed about alpha males. However, are we truly laughing at this disturbing phenomenon?
This subculture originated in the USA in the late 90s. It refers to heterosexual men who exercise domination over women and are therefore considered mal-alpha since their domination is comparable to the highest position in zoology: alpha. The concept of the alpha male suggests that confidence is key and that caring about others’ opinions is not. It assumes that women are attracted to men with a bad boy image and a nonchalant attitude. This subculture represents a group of men who strive to prove their sex appeal through multiple conquests, often based on empty words. This behavior is harmful and is associated with toxic masculinity, which is the adoption of an extreme masculine image by men, according to The New York Times. Men who adhere to this way of thinking may be considered misogynistic, but they do not see it that way. They believe that adopting this behavior in the 21st century is not about opposing women’s power, but rather about reviving the traditional environment of the 1950s. According to them, a woman’s role should be in the home, while the man should work and provide for his family as the head of the household. The movement’s activists associate themselves with the figure of the wolf, which they believe represents complete male power. In addition, they support the words of outspoken male figures such as Andrew Tate.
Although social media has attempted to capitalize on this subculture by creating humorous videos, it is important to meticulously monitor this community. While traditional thinking is not always negative, it can be dangerous when it undermines the progress made in women’s rights struggles. Some women are still fighting for these rights and it’s not fair to devalue them. Instead of striving to be an alpha male, strive to be a 21st-century man who acknowledges and expresses their emotions. And perhaps you will attract women in that way.
