Shu on Safari 2

In the wild, the weak and vulnerable are prey. This forms the basis of the male society; letting down your guard is an invitation to be reminded of where you stand. Though this may be true in some male social circles, it is most applicable in an environment with some sort of hierarchy, such as an office.

For the most part, exchanges are short and sharp. A naive young buck takes a jab at his older counterpart who snaps back with a snarling return. The young buck usually surrenders; head down and tail between his legs. His inexperience outweighing his eagerness to engage in further bouts.

As the young buck gains experience, he engages in more matches with his seniors until eventually, both have mutual respect for one another. Of course, the senior male will let it be known to the young buck that though he has respect; he is not an equal. The usual method includes the use of surprise insults and practical jokes. The latter is usually tailored to exploit every morsel of vulnerability foolishly admitted by the young buck.

If carried out successfully, a prank has the ability to restore total dominance to the senior male. His freedom to mate with whomever he chooses; to have cold beer served to him at 1630 every Friday and; to eat meat though he claims to be vegetarian have been restored to him... until the young buck is strong enough to contest for his dignity once again.