What reason does Ralph give for the boys' defection to Jack?

Answer 1

In chapter 9, Ralph said: '"And for hunting," said Ralph, wisely, "and for pretending to be a tribe, and putting on war-paint."' (Golding, pg.163). Jack lures the boys in to his control by offering them meat from his hunts, and excitement. Jack is a manipulative leader who can insert fear in the boys; while the boys are scared and overwhelmed by emotional instincts, Jack takes the opportunity to persuade the boys. He also uses effective traps by not telling the boys that he will not completely control them. Ralph, at this point, realizes the need for order and organization; he knows that they can no longer act like children. Although he wants civilization and order in the boys, he has difficulty communicating to the boys. Jack, on the other hand, can foresee the boys' fears and instincts, therefore being able to control and brainwash them.

Answer 2

Piggy states that the other boys have deserted them, "Just for some meat ----" Ralph adds the following reasons for the other boys defection to Jack, I quote, "And for the hunting, " said Ralph, wisely, "and for pretending to be a tribe, and putting on war-paint."