In Ken Kesey's One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, the patients of a mental institution are forced to conform to wards rules. One particular patient Randal Patrick McMurphy attempts to avoid conforming and keep his individuality. Nurse Ratched, the head nurse of the ward, tries to force McMurphy to follow the ward's rules. The two engage in an epic battle that concludes with the death of McMurphy. In light of his death, one must ask oneself if the benefits of individuality are greater than the consequences of conformity.

McMurphy's first act of defiance happens the moment he steps foot into the ward. When the ward admits a new patient, the patient is required to take an admission shower. Instead of taking the shower, McMurphy travels through the ward and introduces himself to other fellow patients. As a result, the battle between Nurse Ratched and McMurphy begins, "Aide Williams...