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Good And Evil In Lord Of The Flies

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When God forged humans, people keep asking questions like: Why are we created? What is the world like before we were formed? And most of all, is human entirely capable of good and evil? In the beginning of the story, the boys are stranded on the island without parents and is liberated from society orders. Once the boys gathered together and holds a meeting, they establish rules and a system of civilization within themselves. However, their sense of identity slowly fades away into the abyss. The outlook on looking down upon someone weaker than themselves creates a desire for violence and bloodshed. In the novel Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, evil is inherent in human nature shown through by the lack of authority and supervision among …show more content…

Roger’s temptation to become violent has almost controlled his identity, however “here, invisible yet strong, [is] the taboo of the old life. Round the squatting child [is] the protection of parents and school and policemen and the law” (Golding 56). Somewhere inside of Roger, he realizes that his action will result in hurting someone, although there is no one to hold him accountable. Thus, a link between civilization is still within Roger and a logical reasoning prevented him to cross the boundary of savagery. According to a famous American philosopher, William James, portrays human nature as “we are all ready to be savage in some cause. The difference between a good man and a bad one is the choice of the cause” (James, Brainyquote.com). This ties directly back to Roger’s decision, because he intentionally missed his shot just to avoid commotion or even guilt that might never be resolved. Furthermore, his wise decision has saved him from becoming a savage and if that happens, there is almost no hope to return back into his usual self. Currently, Roger is still protected by civilization and society because he has not been removed from his governed self long enough to turn into a bloodthirsty

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