I can see the possibility of hierarchy based on natural utility vs. hierarchy based on a flawed sense of reality via egotism. The body rushes blood to the brain and heart in a crisis - showing that the concentration of power in these centers is vital for an organization to survive/exist ... however the heart and brain(besides having no point to exist on their own) could not exist without the supporting parts and nothing would exist functionally if it weren't for the totality of the whole structure.