Locke thought that without some system of checks and balances, the weak would be deprived of their three natural rights: life, liberty, and property. The first right that Locke proposed, the right to life, is certainly breached throughout the movie. Simon, the first victim, is killed by “accident” when the group mistakes him for the beast. Piggy, though, is killed purposefully. Because Piggy is the symbol of civilization and order, killing him is evidence that Locke’s natural rights are disregarded, and savagery takes its place. When they begin to hunt Ralph, it is apparent th

Jack’s group, however, more closely represents a dictatorship. He offers protection from “the beast,” but at a much greater price. Jack realizes that his government can only survive if the people have something to fear, so he creates “the beast” and offers protection to that end. There are no structured rules, but if one does not obey him, the consequences are very severe. Roger, the first to join, takes care of the punishment for Jack. Sam and Eric, the twins, are captured and their freedom is taken away from them. They become slaves and their liberty is very limited. Jack’s system of government is also unlimited; there are no checks or balances and that allows him to abuse his power (which he does.) The people under his control have no political rights whatsoever. Jack has no civic virtue, a value embraced by the classical republicans. His interest lies only in personal gain.

at any system of structure has long since been overthrown.

Some topics in this essay:
John Locke, Lord Flies, Ralph Piggy’s, Sam Eric, Hobbes Locke, Ralph’s Roger, natural rights, checks balances, civic virtue, “the beast”, offers protection, locke proposed, lord flies,