Primus inter pares effect

Biological Parallel

In wolf packs, subordinate adults display both deference to the alpha pair and dominance behaviors toward each other, simultaneously acknowledging hierarchy and positioning themselves as 'nearly alpha.' This dual positioning enables rapid status adjustment when opportunities arise—the subordinate who sees herself as ready-to-lead responds faster when the alpha position opens. Maintaining both hierarchical awareness and self-promotion readiness creates cognitive tension that's evolutionarily productive in fluid social structures.