Real-Life Version of "Lord of the Flies" Shows Unexpected Human Behavior

TLDR In 1965, a group of young boys were stranded on a deserted island and instead of descending into savagery like in "Lord of the Flies," they worked together, established routines and rules, and maintained hope, friendship, and survival throughout their time there. This real-life event provides an opportunity to study human behavior that would otherwise be unethical to conduct.

Timestamped Summary

00:00 In 1965, a real-life version of "The Lord of the Flies" occurred when a group of young boys were stranded on a deserted island and descended into a state of anarchy.
01:52 A real-life version of "The Lord of the Flies" has never happened, but unexpected events provide opportunities for studying human behavior that would otherwise be unethical to conduct.
03:20 In 1965, six boys from a Catholic boarding school in Tonga stole a boat and ended up stranded on an uninhabited island for eight days after a storm destroyed their sail and rudder.
05:01 The boys were fortunate that the previously inhabited island still had crops, feral chickens, and other resources that they were able to use to survive and even thrive during their time there.
06:31 Fifteen months after being stranded on the island, the boys were discovered by an Australian fisherman named Peter Warner, who initially doubted their claim but confirmed their identity with Tonga authorities and sold the rights to their story to pay for the boat.
08:02 Contrary to William Golding's portrayal in "Lord of the Flies," the real-life castaways on the island did not descend into savagery but instead worked together, established routines and rules, and maintained hope, friendship, and survival throughout their time there.
09:33 Podchaser has received positive reviews from listeners who appreciate the educational content of the podcast, and leaving a review can help support Ukrainian refugees.
Categories: History Education

Browse more History