In Robinson Crusoe, how does Daniel Defoe explore the idea of individualism?

In the early
eighteenth century, writers such
as Jonathan Swift and , spurrred on largely by the Cook's
exploration in the
South Pacific, set their stories in the exotic locales about which they had

read.  In Defoe's specifically, the author integrates the novel's
setting
into the themes he examines in the text.  Foremost among them is the
idea of individualism and
the individual's ability to survive in the
world.

Defoe's , Robinson Crusoe,
though certainly not a
brave or courageous character, finds himself on a remote, deserted
island, a
setting that should demand both.  At the very least, Crusoe's situation requires
him
to find a way to survive on his own.  Crusoe's relative lack of bravery
or courage make him a
good candidate for this "experiment."  He is not
particularly suited for the task at
hand.  Throughout the early stages of the
novel, Crusoe, assuming the role of an adventurer,
embarks on adventures
around the island to search for food, shelter, and hopefully, a means of

escape.  When his hopes of rescue begin to fade (and by this time he has encountered
Friday),
Crusoe is presented with a greater challenge. Having no cues for how
to define his relationship
with Friday, Crusoe adapts the social system with
which he is familiar, relegating Friday to the
level of servant. 

As the novel progresses, Defoe presents Crusoe with
continued
challenges to test his ability to overcome them.  Ultimately, Defoe implicitly
argues
for an individual's ability to survive, even when presented with such
daunting
circumstances.