“Why We Strive for Status,” written in 2003 by Geoffrey Cowley, a Newsweek writer discusses how the struggle for status has come a long way since the 13th century to date. The article begins by talking about the ways in which humans have improved since the time of Genghis Khan. Genghis Khan was an emperor who conquered two-thirds of the known world during the 13th century and credited him with 20,000 descendants 33 years after his death. 800 years later, after the time of Genghis Khan, men are still considered the same animals at heart, that is, men are status seekers. Men continue to build hierarchical structures and strive for status within them. Scientists have found that status-seeking is not just a habit or cultural tradition. It is a design feature of the male psyche, made up of hormones and brain chemicals that regulate the nervous system. The dominance drive influences perceptions, colors friendships, shapes moods and affects health. However, hierarchies can produce peace and harmony as well as conflict and injustice, but humans are not always worse off. Studies suggest that boys are assertive compared to girls at 13 months, aggressive as infants, and competitive at any age. While schoolgirls engage in cooperative play, but boys as young as six become teenagers, men brag, threaten and fight more than girls. The article goes on to explain the contrast between animals and humans. Frans de Waal, a behavioral scientist at Emory University and the Yerkes National Primate Research Centers, says that "male chimpanzees have an extraordinarily strong drive for dominance," constantly jockeying for position. As in men, their bodies produce a surge of testosterone, a hormone known to increase body mass and aggression, responding quickly to physical problems… half of paper… depression for not believing in hope. My general reaction is also after reading the article, fighting for status is just like a competition. We all want to stand out from others with a good job and a good wardrobe. The article states that researchers have gathered information showing that women prefer signs of "earning ability" over good looks. In a bar scene, a girl covered in tattoos with favor, a guy with tattoos maybe with an attitude towards the guy sitting at the bar having a drink. If we take a deeper look at the situation, those with a high steam level will have more connections. The guy will only care how much action he gets because of the macho image/status he brings with him. Just like Genghis Khan lived his life. The power he had attracted to the women who brought him all the sex he wanted. After 33 years of his death, 20,000 descendants were attributed to him.