One thing we know.  You don't have to be good-lookin to be a despot.

In evolution, are there any studies of the great apes and the hierarchies that they maintain in their societies?

Cults are mini-societies, playing follow the leader.  50-year-old-premies from Western countries are the most pathetic, because they really should know better by now.

If you are going out hunting, then fine, follow a leader.  If you want to learn the violin, then fine, follow a leader.  If you want to find out about the mysteries and purpose of life, then follow a despot, yeah, right!