Machiavellian Monkeys

It seems that humans are not the only primates to use social status, power, and cunning to further themselves and other members of their family in their society. According to research conducted by primate behavior specialist Dario Maestripieri, rhesus macaques also display similar behaviors. With intricate societies, these monkeys have had to develop many ways to climb the ranks in their social world. According to Maestripieri, "After humans, rhesus macaques are one of the most successful primate species on our planet; our Machiavellian intelligence may be one of the reasons for our success," and one can therefore assume, when confronted with evidence of their behaviors, that these monkeys have also utilized this type of intelligence.

Each group of monkeys is composed of about fifty individuals, ruled by one alpha male, who uses force and aggression to secure for himself the best life has to offer: food, shelter, and females included. The most powerful males will often band together to keep lower ranking males in their place, through means of violence and intimidation. And it is no wonder they should have to. Low-ranking males are at the greatest risk of predation (because they are forced to live on the borders of a group’s territory), mating is an option only if the alpha male is not around, and they have the worst pick when it comes to food. Who wouldn’t want to climb the ladder a little when in that position?

Males are not the only ones to use these Machiavellian tactics, however. Females use sex as a means of protection for their young. If they copulate with the alpha male numerous times, it will lead him to believe that he is fathering their children and will thus protect the young they produce. However, at the same time, females continue to mate with the other males in the group – another one of their tactics. If the alpha male dies or by chance is sterile, it will benefit them to have relations with other potential alpha males or ones who can actually produce offspring. Also, because female rhesus macaques share close bonds with other females in their families, mothers will often use their own social standings to bring their daughters up to or higher then their own level.

Civil wars of sorts also occur within rhesus society. Whole families of lower class individuals have been known to rise up against the ruling family. These revolutions can lead to extreme changes in society, causing, for instance, a whole upheaval where lower class males may now find themselves in seats of power. Maestripieri believes that,

"What rhesus macaques and humans may have in common is that many of their psychological and behavioral dispositions have been shaped by intense competition between individuals and groups during the evolutionary history of these species."

And this may be what has made both humans and rhesus macaques so successful when compared to other species of primates. With their smart thinking and cunning, they have been able to develop methods of survival not only for themselves but also for those closest to themselves. And while these methods may not be very kind or anything to boast about, they sure have proven that they are successful in helping individuals survive.

Posted by Elizabeth Adams (5)