Many people have pondered the question "what is basic human nature?" Locke and Hobbes are two of the most famous philosophers to have written on this topic, and their ideas range greatly. Debate over which view of human nature is correct has raged for centuries, with no winner yet in sight. Human nature is such a touchy issue because it helps to define morality and savagery. William Golding's story of young boys stranded on a tropical island, Lord of the Flies, has added much to the ongoing debate over human nature, because it speaks volumes on the topic of human nature and the way in which societies function. Lord of the Flies, was designed to serve as a warning of how easily society can collapse and how self-destructive human nature is.
             A leader's political opinion can often tell a great deal about their personality and how they will interact with those under them. Ralph is a prime example of the democratic leader trying to pull his people together to logic out problems as situations unfold. Ralph feels that all of the members of the group should participate in decisions that will effect the entire group. When the boys first arrive on the island, they are in a state of confusion and disorder, they are unaware of the circumstances of their situation, and are completely unprepared for the responsibilities of freedom. In an individual and somewhat instinctual act, Ralph uses his newfound power and uses the conch shell to call the group together. When Ralph is questioned as to whom was in charge, and whether there were any grown ups he simply answered, "No we're having a meeting. Come and join in."(21). This is a simple statement which shows that instead of lying or taking advantage of the situation, Ralph chooses to bring everyone together and pool their information to obtain a more complete picture of what has happened.
             Jack is the exact polar opposite of Ralph. He is a dictator who plans for the present...