The Appeal of the Primal Leader: Human Evolution and Donald J. Trump

This is a fascinating lens on Trump’s rise to power.  In this academic article, Dan McAdams draws on evolutionary psychology to compare him to a chimpanzee alpha in the way that he commands attention through dominance rather than expertise.

The argument is that Trump isn't winning followers through "prestige", which usually involves sharing knowledge, showing competence, or earning respect.  Instead, he leads through sheer force of personality, though posturing, aggression, and constant displays of control.

It’s an approach hardwired deep in our species, one that taps ancient instincts about who should lead when the world feels uncertain or unsafe.  And it's a reminder that modern politics still plays out on a very old stage.