I didn't think this was that complicated... (Score 1)

Nerds are smart and usually not physically strong. Jocks/Football Players/Popular people are usually strong and have better "fighting skills". In high school, you can generally beat up someone and get away with it without any serious reprecussions (ooooh..detention...well i still made that nerd look stupid and that's all that matters). In the "real" world, strength doesn't work as well cause you get sued. So therefore in a more barbaric lawless society (high school) the stronger are in control. I knew some kids that were very smart, and very strong/big. No one seemed to pick on them. Doesn't make much sense according to the articles arguments.