When people talk about the "alpha male," they often focus on traits like physical strength, dominance, confidence, and even aggression. These traits are often portrayed in movies, TV shows, or books as what makes a man an "alpha."
However, from a biological perspective, being an "alpha" is about successfully passing your genes to the next generation. NOT HOW MANY FEMALES YOU BED. This means not just having kids but having kids who survive and go on to have their kids. This isn't quite as glamorous or dramatic as what we usually see in media, and it doesn't necessarily correlate with those typically "alpha" traits.
For example, being a good father and investing time in raising your children increases their chances of surviving and reproducing. Being cooperative and forming solid social bonds might give you access to more resources and protection, which could help your kids succeed.
Also, while a dominant or aggressive male might be able to attract more mates, this doesn't necessarily mean they'll have more successful offspring. Some studies have even found that females in various species often prefer less aggressive males for long-term mates, as they're more likely to stick around and help raise the offspring.
So, the pop culture image of the "alpha male" doesn't always align with what we see in nature. It's important to remember that humans are complex, and our behaviors and societal roles can't be boiled down to simple concepts like "alpha" and "beta."
Success in human societies involves a wide range of skills, traits, and behaviors, and it doesn't solely hinge on reproductive success, but if we're to use the term Alpha as intended, the definition above is the most accurate.