The Theme of Groupthink in Lord of the Flies: How Collective Behavior Influences the Boys’ Actions and Decisions on the Island

Groupthink is a key theme in Lord of the Flies, demonstrating how collective behavior can influence individuals’ actions and decisions. The novel showcases the power of group dynamics and how individuals often conform to the beliefs and actions of the majority, even when those actions are morally wrong. This phenomenon is evident throughout the story as the boys become increasingly divided between Ralph’s leadership, which represents civilization, and Jack’s, which embraces savagery.

At first, Ralph’s leadership seems to be based on reason, democracy, and the desire to maintain order. However, as Jack’s group gains more influence, the boys begin to fall under the spell of groupthink. Jack’s promises of excitement, freedom, and adventure appeal to the boys, drawing them away from Ralph’s rational authority. As a result, they begin to adopt Jack’s violent behavior and rebel against Ralph’s calls for cooperation and civilization.

The most significant example of groupthink occurs during the murder of Simon. Despite Simon’s innocence and purity, the boys are swept up in the frenzy of the moment and kill him in a ritualistic attack. This act of collective violence illustrates how groupthink can override individual morality and reason. In this moment, the boys lose their sense of individual responsibility and blindly follow the chaotic impulses of the group.

Golding uses the theme of groupthink to critique the dangers of mob mentality and the loss of personal accountability. The boys' descent into savagery is not only the result of individual desires but also the collective influence of the group. The novel suggests that in situations of fear and uncertainty, individuals may abandon their values and succumb to the power of groupthink, leading to disastrous consequences.