The Hierarchy Is a Symbolic Reality

Even lobsters have a dominance hierarchy which is incredible since how big is their brain. Chimps know exactly where each chimp is in the hierarchy so for example a low-ranking mature chimp won't attack a high-ranking juvenile even though he could tear him apart. The ugliest meanest brute of a chimp gets to the top but as soon as he has a bad day then two three quarter as strong chimps tear him into pieces and the chimps that manage to maintain power at the top or let's say authority are those who pay reasonable attention to females.