1. Men never want to admit that they’re intimidated or scared. It is a sign of weakness and as humans it’s always best to be viewed as strong. Especially for anyone who holds a position of leadership, official or unofficial. Finny serves as the leader of the 5S and doesn’t want the other boys to think that he is apprehensive about jumping from the tree.

“The tree was tremendous, an irate, steely black steeple beside the river … No one but Phineas could think up such a crazy idea. He of course saw nothing the slightest bit intimidating about it. He wouldn’t, or wouldn’t admit if he did. Not Phineas” (Knowles 14).

2. Humans recognize their imperfections and desire the qualities they do not have. They seek to be like others who have these qualities whether it be athleticism, scholarship, or merely an interesting personality. Gene is smart, but isn’t too social or well-liked. Finny however is social and well-liked and Gene desires those qualities.

“I [Gene] decided to put on [Finny’s] clothes … The rich material against my skin excited a sense of strangeness and distinction … I was Phineas, Phineas to the life” (62).

3. Humans are social creatures and want to be around each other even if that means abandoning obligations for more enjoyable ones. Having fun occasionally takes priority over things such as studying. Finny and Gene go to the jumping tree and cut class instead of dedicating ample time to homework and studying.

Finny decides not to study for a French test, rationalizing that he’ll do poorly anyway. However, wanting his best friend with him, he pulls Gene away with him to the jumping tree.