What is Ralph's main conflict in Lord of the Flies?

Ralph's main conflict in the novel Lord of the Flies is competing against the savage human nature while he attempts to maintain a civil society focused on survival and rescue. Ralph struggles to lead and convince the group of boys to maintain the signal fire and other essential elements of civilization. Ralph's plans are undermined by Jack, who is the tyrannical leader of his tribe obsessed with hunting and violence. Rather than complete menial labor like building huts and maintaining the signal fire, the majority of the castaway boys follow Jack and decide to hunt. Hunting is exciting and rewarding, unlike the tasks Ralph attempts to advocate for. Rather than focus on the importance of a signal fire and its potential to increase their probability of rescue, the boys focus on their immediate physical desires. Ralph's conflict is symbolic of mankind's struggle between morality and primitive human instincts. Containing one's savage instincts is fundamental in establishing and contributing to a civil, organized society.