Lord of the Flies Discussion Question #1

Evaluate Jack’s leadership in Lost and Ralph’s in Lord of the Flies to determine who is a better leader.

Ralph from the 1963 film adaptation of the novel

Jack Shepherd from the TV show Lost

Jack from Lost is a superior leader because he is respectful and cares for the people on the island more than Ralph does with the boys in Lord of the Flies. Jack is older, which means he has more experience with the world, and he has a better understanding of respect. He is also a doctor, so he is constantly responsible for his patients’ well being. Ralph is just a selfish kid who doesn’t yet grasp the concept of responsibility and the aspects of a good leader. All he wants to do is enjoy himself like any other young boy would do. When they first landed on the island, Jack helped the injured plane victims first and then helped himself, risking his own life in the process. If he wanted to, he could have rescued himself and ran away to safety. Ralph differs because he does what is best for himself and disregards the others, especially Piggy. For example, once all the boys have come together, he goes off on his own to explore the island and makes Piggy stay behind. As Ralph is walking off he says, “Better Piggy than Fatty… Now go back, Piggy, and take names. That’s your job. So long” (25). Ralph sends Piggy off without listening to Piggy’s viewpoint. He also makes fun of Piggy and gives him no respect, even though Piggy actually has the best ideas. A good leader takes in account the ideas and viewpoints of the individuals in his group. He gives full respect to everyone, even if he does not like the person or their views. He especially does not mock people. Ralph is simply too immature to handle the responsibilities of leadership, and reverts to childish antics like mockery. Jack, however, is a great leader. He respects everyone’s opinions and he doesn’t mock people. He takes all opinions into account and makes decisions that are best for the group, making him a true leader. Though there are many variables that make a great leader, respect and experience are key in any situation. Jack has these qualities, and Ralph does not, thus making Jack the superior leader.