If your life were completely controlled, leaving you no freedom of choice, could it truly be called "free"?
The anime PSYCHO-PASS is set in a dystopian future, portraying a world where people lose their freedom and are governed by machines.
Within this world, Shogo Makishima emerges as a fierce rebel against the controlled society, challenging us to reflect on "what it means to be human" and the essence of freedom.
In this article, we explore Makishima's philosophy and actions, uncovering parallels with modern society and the lessons we must consider for the future.
{tocify} $title={Table of Contents}Makishima's Philosophy and Lessons for Modern Society
Shogo Makishima is a character centered on reclaiming "humanity."
Here, "humanity" refers to the autonomy, individuality, and freedom to think and choose that are being eroded in a society governed by machines.
Makishima believes these qualities are indispensable for human beings and argues that reclaiming them is essential for a healthy society.
He criticizes the Sibyl System, a psycho-pass assessment system, as a "structure that erases humanity," seeing it as an oppressive force that stifles individuality, critical thinking, and questioning.
While his methods are extreme, they offer humanity an opportunity to consider their condition and regain autonomy.
Questioning Lost Freedom
Makishima's philosophy raises a fundamental question: "Can a society where individuals lose the freedom to think and choose for themselves truly be called a society?"
His critique goes beyond the Sibyl System, urging viewers and readers to reflect on what modern technological advancements are taking away from our daily lives.
By over-relying on technology, we risk losing the sense of responsibility and freedom of decision-making that are inherently human, highlighting the need to reexamine our approach to life.
Challenging a Homogenized Society
Makishima's provocations and violent actions brutally expose the reality of people avoiding confrontation with their own lives.
He questions the freedom lost in exchange for the safety provided by the Sibyl System, holding society accountable.
While the Sibyl System provides reassurance, it strips individuals of autonomous decision-making, leading them to evade responsibility.
Makishima warns that this "state of unthinking" not only hinders societal progress but also poses the greatest threat to human potential.
His actions uncover the oppressive structures behind a homogenized society, delivering an appealing message about its dangers.
The Dangers of Surveillance Technology
In modern society, surveillance technologies using AI and big data are rapidly advancing.
For example, China's social credit system evaluates individuals' credit scores based on monitored data, impacting many aspects of daily life.
Similarly, social media platforms analyze user preferences to recommend ads and content, but these systems also track behavior and infringe on privacy.
While these technologies offer convenience, they also raise issues of privacy invasion and freedom restriction.
The Sibyl System serves as an extreme example of such surveillance, yet its signs are visible in the real world.
We need to reconsider what we are sacrificing for the sake of convenience.
Resonance with Nietzschean Philosophy
Makishima's philosophy resonates deeply with Friedrich Nietzsche's concept of the "Übermensch" (Superman).
Nietzsche's idea of the Übermensch aims for humans to transcend existing values and societal norms, creating new values themselves.
However, while Nietzsche promotes creative and life-affirming actions, Makishima's methods are often violent and destructive.
In this sense, Makishima does not faithfully embody Nietzsche's philosophy but rather interprets it in an extreme way as a provocation against society.
Similarly, Makishima strongly opposes the "herd mentality" fostered by the Sibyl System, harshly criticizing the loss of individuality and blind obedience to the system.
He argues that breaking free from system control and rebuilding individual values are key to reclaiming true freedom and humanity.
This philosophy is a sharp critique of uniformity and irresponsible dependency in modern society.
The Impact of Makishima's Provocation
Makishima's actions bring significant division and chaos to society.
On the other hand, protagonist Akane Tsunemori firmly opposes Makishima's extreme methods while recognizing the philosophical challenges he presents.
Akane understands the oppressive side of the stability provided by the Sibyl System and seeks a new form of justice to overcome it.
She confronts the dilemma of balancing individual freedom with social order, striving not just to reject the system but to transcend its contradictions and limitations, bringing alternatives to the narrative.
Hannah Arendt's Theory of Totalitarianism
Makishima's actions can also be linked to Hannah Arendt's theory of totalitarianism.
Arendt pointed out the dangers of totalitarianism in eliminating individual diversity and creating a homogenized society.
The Sibyl System symbolizes such totalitarianism, and Makishima attempts to pierce through this homogenized society.
His actions are not mere rebellion but also serve as a warning against totalitarianism.
This warning has elements relevant to contemporary society.
For instance, the expansion of surveillance technologies and the detailed tracking of citizens' actions by governments and corporations echo the controlled society of the Sibyl System.
Moreover, as unified values and rules restrict individual freedom, figures like Makishima highlight the parallels with modern protests and advocacy for diversity.
What We Can Do
PSYCHO-PASS is not merely a dystopian story but also a cautionary tale for modern society.
What choices can we make to avoid a society like the Sibyl System?
Here are some suggestions:
- Ensure transparency in technology: Make the mechanisms of surveillance technologies and algorithms transparent, enabling the public to understand their impact.
- Foster autonomy through education: In future societies, the ability to think and decide independently will be even more crucial. Education promoting these skills is essential.
- Respect diversity: Build a society that embraces diverse opinions and values rather than uniformity.
To achieve these proposals, it is vital for each of us to remain conscious of the balance between freedom and responsibility in our daily actions.
Furthermore, as a society, we must actively discuss the relationship between technology and ethics, striving to expand our options for the future.
While a model that balances freedom and stability cannot be created overnight, our proactive efforts can build a better future.
Post a Comment