kaitlynmariadunne

[kaitlynmariadunne]

I think the way you describe the anime as “staring into someone’s mind during a total collapse” is a really powerful and accurate way to describe the emotional intensity of the series and film. The mental health of the characters is incredibly impactful, especially if you take a look at the final episode of the show and The End of Evangelion where Shinji’s mind is producing bizarre dreams that are difficult to understand or follow. I agree that these scenes were more powerful than the grand robot and Angel battles or other futuristic elements the show illustrates, just because of how personal they are to the characters. I especially like your point about the anime being globally relevant, in fact, it was actually very similar to my own take on the show. The show definitely goes outside of Japanese culture to reflect society as a whole, allowing many to relate to its themes and messages. Shinji’s fear and self-doubt is universally human, a rare thing to see in this kind of anime. I also enjoy the way you tie the concepts of isolation and identity into your post, as that is something felt by the young characters of the show and really resonates with me personally.

I think your idea that the end of the anime rejects the “clean” finale that typical anime usually follow is an impressive catch. It is true that most shows end in a way that is more easily understood and satisfying for viewers, even if they don’t give outright solutions to the issues they address. The last scene with the final moment of human connection displayed also stood out to me in my viewing. The last half of the film had just been so chaotic that this quiet end felt small and delicate compared to everything that had just ensued. Nonetheless, I found this scene impactful, as it gives you a small amount of closure, but not an entirely happy ending like the show, revealing much about how reality is bleaker than you assume in this society and perhaps in real life.

You also mention your own fear and vulnerability in viewing the anime. I also felt this emotional response and I like the way you are open about this feeling, just like the anime encourages. This public display of feeling is not a weakness like how many view Shinji, but is its own kind of strength. It really is Shinji’s journey that makes me ready to admit that strength is choosing something you know might hurt you, and still choosing it anyway. Even if you don’t want to be strong and are terrified, Shinji shows you are able to feel many different ways and still make a strong decision, even if that strength is not the traditional kind. Overall, I find your reflection of the anime honest and powerful. You’re completely right, this isn't the kind of anime where you just finish the story and move on, it leaves you thinking for days and reflecting on your own life.

Neon Genesis Evangelion

Watching Neon Genesis Evangelion and The End of Evangelion was like staring into someone’s mind during a total collapse. I’ve never seen an anime that felt so deeply personal and chaotic at the same time. What hit me hardest wasn’t the sci-fi or the giant battles—it was the raw mental and emotional breakdowns that all the characters, especially Shinji, go through. The show made me feel uncomfortable in the best way, like it was forcing me to sit with thoughts I’d usually push away.

In terms of global relevance, Evangelion doesn’t just reflect Japan’s postwar identity crisis or the pressure on youth to conform. It goes even deeper—into what it means to be human when everything else is stripped away. Isolation, depression, fear of connection—those themes aren’t just Japanese issues; they’re universal. I think anyone who’s ever felt alone or unsure of who they are can relate to Shinji’s paralysis and constant questioning of his worth.

I also found the ending of The End of Evangelion incredibly powerful. It’s messy, violent, and abstract—but it’s honest. It felt like a rejection of everything “clean” that anime is supposed to be. Instead of giving us a perfect resolution, it gives us emotion, confusion, and one small moment of human connection at the very end. That felt real to me. Life doesn’t always offer closure. Sometimes, just choosing to keep going is enough.

Watching this made me reflect on my own fear of vulnerability. Evangelion shows that connecting with others means accepting pain and imperfection, and that’s terrifying—but also necessary. It’s not a show I can say I “enjoyed” in the usual way, but it’s one I’ll probably be thinking about for a long time.

[kaitlynmariadunne]

Neon Genesis Evangelion and The End of Evangelion

I don’t think I have ever been more confused yet enthralled by an anime than I have when watching Neon Genesis Evangelion and The End of Evangelion. The show and movie were raw and personal, making it hit hard emotionally in many aspects. Watching Shinji struggle with his fear and his responsibility to fight the Angels was saddening, but also relatable. It reminds me of how children are increasingly forced to take up adult roles at a young age as it seems the problems of our parents are often passed down for their children to deal with. The Angels seem to be something the adults have awakened, yet it is children who fight in giant biomechanical robots to protect humanity. I didn’t expect for a futuristic robot anime to contain such disturbing scenes, like the murder Kaworu, who is an angel but appears as a young child, and Shinji strangling Asuka in The End of Evangelion. I really reflected on what it means to connect with others in watching the series and the movie. Surprisingly, it seems serious questions, like whether life is worth living, are handled by young children. At times, it seems the children produce better answers than the adults featured, making me think the show highlights the way children have different insights to complex issues that are valuable yet overlooked.

There are some clear Japanese themes in the anime, especially references to post-war traumas the citizens of Japan felt after World War II. The city of “Tokyo-3” looks like a world that was built to withstand a bombing, which comes in the form of Angels in the series. The constant threat citizens feel and intense security the city is under makes me feel like they are just waiting for something to happen, similar to how many citizens of Japan feared something happening in the years after the horrific atomic bombings. I think more Japanese cultural issues are reflected in both viewings through the pressure on children. Much of Japan’s society demands strict duties from children and expects them to handle lots of stress but also be successful. I think this pressure on children is shown well in the anime as the adults, mainly Misato, asks Shinji to perform unthinkable acts of violence and courage at just 14 years old. 

Globally the show also emphasizes issues regarding mental health struggles like depression, isolation, identity confusion, and the fear of being unwanted. The children who piloted the “Evas” struggled in many ways. Most obviously, Shinji discusses feelings of not being enough from the first episode, where he argues he can’t pilot the Eva, to the point a badly injured Rei is almost required to do the job. Shinji is abandoned when he says he won’t pilot, suggesting isolation is often used as a tool of discipline. Asuka also displays feelings of competition and struggles to feel enough as she competes with the other Eva pilots. Overall, easily understandable themes of decaying mental health are broadcasted in both Neon Genesis Evangelion and The End of Evangelion and are a clear international issue many young people who are similar to the show's characters struggle with.

Personally, while I can’t relate to epic battles against another species in a giant robot suit, the anxieties of the children are similar to my own thoughts about my self worth. The idea of being “useful” can be overwhelming, and is sometimes all consuming when you are in a low place mentally. I think Asuka is actually who I relate the most to in the show. She seems to overcompensate her pain and abandonment she feels from her mother through arrogance. She always tries to hide insecurities to appear strong and confident on the surface, but the reality is she struggles with much more behind closed doors. Seeing her in The End of Evangelion fight with her mother’s love on her side was especially powerful. She becomes a fighting beast as she attempts to take down the new Evangelion series, pushing until she runs out of power and is destroyed. This scene struck me because it seems like it shows her mental state is what led to her fighting until her own demise, never knowing when to give up or stop acting strong and just be a kid, always moving forward because that is all she knows how to do.

Finally, themes of masculinity are seen throughout both anime, specifically challenges to hegemonic masculinity by Shinji who expresses the concept of queer masculinity. Connell’s discussion of hegemonic masculinity in his work, “Relations among Masculinities: Hegemony, Subordination, Complicity, Marginalization” is prevalent as it provides a background to how the characters in the show expect Shinji to behave as a man. Ironically, the reading also gives insight to how Asuka’s personality can be classified, even though she is a female. In many aspects of the series and the film, Asuka acts more hegemonically masculine than Shinji, which is a clear point of tension in the story. Society attempts to change Shinji in the show as he acts sensitive and passive, traits that are “undesirable” and discouraged in men. While Shinji does not display traits of hegemonic masculinity, he does fall into the category described in Heasley’s article, “Queer Masculinities of Straight Men.” Shinji may or may not be straight, but he definitely does not fit into the traditional male dominance circle. Instead he displays a softer masculinity that is often misunderstood and disliked in the context of the show. The most striking point where I think queer masculinity is openly commented on by the creators of the story is the final scene of The End of Evangelion where Shinji sobs on top of Asuka. Asuka utters the word “disgusting” and that is the last thing heard other than Shinji’s cries, enforcing the idea that society will always look down at those who don't express traditional masculinity. Overall, both series made me rethink what strength is, and also how we as a society force certain kinds of expectations on young people, which prevents individualism and growth as a people.

[kaitlynmariadunne]

Your reflection of True Otaku was enjoyable to read and brought up some great points regarding the craft behind cosplay and the supportive community found at conventions. Similar to you, I found Dust Bunny’s process of crafting costumes inspiring, especially her dedication to accuracy and level of care for her work. From internet searches to photo collages and fabric testing, Dust Bunny puts in hours of work for even just a single costume. This forced me to see the reality of cosplay, which is that it is way more than just “dressing up.” Clearly this creative form of expression is an art  that requires skill and practice which is complimented with extensive research about the subject at hand.

I liked how you also touched on family involvement in your reflection. It was heartwarming to see parents show up for their kids’ interests instead of writing it off as childish or “weird” like some might. Even without being fans themselves, these family members opened their minds to experience the convention with their children without judgement and even contributing with their own cosplays. Supporting the passions of those around you is a major part of these conventions and the fandom world overall, which is why it is so touching to see families go to great lengths to encourage each other's interests. I think this also speaks to the fact that anime conventions aren’t just about one or two fandoms but large communities of many fandoms all intertwined with each other. The inclusive nature of these events allows for parents who know little about anime to come and still have a good time at gatherings. There was a point in the documentary where someone mentions that conventions are the only place where they felt their entire self is accepted, and this sense of belonging is clear with the example of the family.

I also think your idea that the definition of otaku is flexible is true in the context of the documentary. People gave many different answers when asked about the term, which shows that it has evolved over time. No longer is an otaku just a social recluse in Japan. People have begun to self-define the term and fit it into their own lives, whether that be as a fan of a piece of fiction or as a culture in general. I think it was also interesting to see how some people embrace the name and others still steer clear of it, showing there is still some growth needed to make otaku a positive term for passionate people. I believe the film shows otaku as a term being reclaimed by the younger generation who were once labeled and ridiculed for the name. There are some interesting cultural questions about what fiction media warrants the term otaku, which I am reminded of seeing your evaluation that Marvel or Star Wars fans might not be considered otaku themselves. I believe that, in Japan, the term is specific to anime and manga fans, but Western fans seem to have changed the term to encompass all forms of fandoms, even those like the ones you mention.

Finally, your views of Lolita fashion were especially insightful. I ignored the influences that may have inspired the style in Japan but also the Rococo and Victorian foundations the style seems to be built from. Your observation of the silhouette and materials used for the fashion do remind me of these eras, and leave me wondering what other aspects of convention dressing styles are pulled from periods of history. I also thought about how conventions are one of the only physical spaces where fans of these styles can engage with each other and learn more about new Japanese fashion subcultures, even those distinct from any popular anime or manga. I personally find the Lolita aesthetic gorgeous and real. Where cosplay imitates fictional characters, these fashion choices have real grounds in history, making them very interesting to me and broadens my view of what conventions allow for expressions  of.

Your views of True Otaku really opened my eyes and affirmed some of my own ideas from the viewing. I see now how diverse and heartwarming fandom culture is, clearly seen in convention settings where there is plenty of cosplay, fashion, art, and discussion.

True Otaku Documentary Blog Post

Before watching this, my knowledge of conventions was very limited. I never really took the opportunity to learn about and watch anime before this class, but watching the True Otaku documentary really showed me what it's like to be an Otaku and what it's like to go to conventions.

I found it interesting to see the large numbers of people, all dressed up like it's Halloween, as mentioned by many in the documentary, and to see the community that Otaku and anime/manga fans have. Everyone shows appreciation for the hard work and that craft that people put into each other's costume, and it's really nice to see that there are people that admire the time and effort that they put into their costumes. I definitely know what it feels like to show my work to everyone, and for everyone to see what I've accomplished and for them to see what I'm able to create. And being able to see the behind the scenes of the making of a costume, specifically from Dust Bunny, really showed me how much is put into costume making. Seeing her research the costume and put together so many reference photos showed me the patience required for making a costume.

I also loved to see how there were family members that weren't necessarily Otaku come and support their family who were Otaku. There were some parents that came to the convention not because they watched anime or read manga, but because they wanted to make it a family event. And the family members were pleasantly surprised at the community that Otaku have built, and how everyone shows appreciation for each other. It was nice to see that even family members were supportive of their family member's passion for anime/manga.

The definition of Otaku wasn't really clear in the documentary, since everyone had a different definition for it. Some were saying that the definition is someone who's a fan of anime/manga/video games, some said it was someone who's a fan of Japanese culture, and some were very broad and said that Otaku includes people who were a fan of anything, to the point where they're very passionate about it. I think the term Otaku is whatever you make it to be, although I'm not sure if a Star Wars or a Marvel fan would necessarily be an Otaku because the term is primarily used in Japanese culture. The term Otaku is very up to interpretation, so it's really up to the individual person how they want to identify.

It was very interesting to see the Lolita fashion style at the conventions shown in the documentary as well. Since conventions are primarily for cosplaying for anime/manga/video games, it was interesting to see how people weren't necessarily cosplaying a certain character, but rather dressing up in the clothing style that's native to Japan. Lolita fashion to me seems to be very maximalist, very conventionally feminine, has a lot of frills and lace, and uses very simple color schemes. I can definitely see how the Lolita style has taken inspiration from Victorian clothing styles from the Rococo period, especially with the use of petticoats to make the dresses appear very big and rounded in the skirt part of the dress. It was also interesting to see how the Lolita fashion style had different subgenres, such as more gothic (using darker colors) and the ones that are more traditionally "feminine" which use lighter colors. I had never heard of Lolita fashion so it was really fascinating to learn about.

Example of Lolita fashion - you can see that the girl in the photo is using a petticoat to expand her skirt, and has many bows, flowers, and frills on her dress, which is very typical of the Lolita fashion.

Overall, this documentary was really interesting, and it showed me the depth of Otaku and Japanese culture. The documentary showed me that there was more to conventions than just manga/anime/video game cosplayers, and that there is still a lot I could learn about conventions and Otaku and Japanese culture!

[kaitlynmariadunne]

Convention

While I haven't attended an anime, manga, or cosplay convention, or really any other large fandom gathering, I do have some personal experience with fandoms. My experiences are mostly digital, through social media and fan pages that have posted fanfictions and discussion of media. While not the same as the in person fan gatherings, online presences of fan communities are large and incredibly active, with new content always being uploaded. This has allowed me to really dive into the fandoms of my favorite media like Harry Potter, Marvel, and other popular works. The True Otaku documentary reinforced the idea that fandom isn’t only about physical spaces, but also the emotional investment and creative outlets utilized in fandoms. While convention spaces make this most clear, other ways of being a fan are valid as well. This makes me feel like my online activity in fandoms also holds some of the same values these large, in-person events do when it comes to being a fan. 

As I have mentioned, my main fandom experience is through reading fanfictions about the Harry Potter books and movies as well as Marvel related content. I believe fanfiction is not just rewrites of stories, as I have seen many different creative types of this expression. Some fanfiction writers go way beyond the story, creating new plot lines or even new characters. Other writers choose to stay true to the narrative provided in the original work. I love that there is no wrong way to write fanfiction, only different ideas and views of characters used to craft interesting spin offs. I think fanfiction especially shows the creativeness fans employ when it comes to what they are passionate about. Through writing these stories, fans are able to take ownership of the original work and claim a piece of it as their own through reinterpretation. I think it should be noted that fanfiction is more than just posting a fantasy about characters from a book, show, or movie. Fan writers expand the worlds created by authors and make them new. There are few limits to fanfiction, making it such an important piece of fandom for me. In addition to the online presence of fandom, I also have participated in fandom through wishing to collect items that relate to my passion. For me, it is the Harry Potter merch and collectables that really took over my life. I have a vast amount of these items including all the books and movies, even the picture editions of the books, collectable wands, the Marauder’s Map, many plushies, and the list goes on. I even own a Lego Hogwarts castle that I have not built yet, but wanted to own so desperately that I had to buy it with no plans of ever building it. These items are not just objects to me, but hold emotional value as they physically prove my connection and knowledge of the wizarding world.

In the context of Azuma’s theory described in Otaku: Japan’s Database Animals, I think fanfiction is extremely relevant. Not only does fanfiction create something new from an existing work, there are many crossover fanfictions incorporating characters from completely separate pieces of fiction. This proves that remixing and changing works to make a new story is common in the world of fandom, and even encouraged. The Cultural Economy of Fandom by Fiske defines fans as what they do with the object they are a fan of, not just how much they claim to love it. While it is obvious that creating fanfiction is one way fans are productive, even just reading fanfiction, like my experience, is interpretive and participatory. Often these works can inspire people to join fandoms and create fictions of their own. Personally, I have become fans of series that I hadn’t already seen, just by reading fanfiction and fan discussions of the work online.

Since I have not been to a convention or fan gathering, I watched the documentary True Otaku and learned a lot about these events and why so many people are attracted to them. My main takeaways from the film is that fandom is personal, performative, and diverse. There are many ways to be a valid “fan” to allow people to shape their identities and find a sense of belonging. A more specific aspect of conventions I learned about is that these events are regarded as “safe spaces” for people to express themselves. These gatherings offer a physical community where fans can express themselves without fear of judgement and to be seen by those who understand them. Those in attendance in the documentary describe the conventions as the only places where they can feel fully understood or accepted. In other words, the conventions allow for people to escape from their normal lives temporarily to a place of freedom, or, for people who feel like outsiders in their day to day lives, to experience being surrounded by people like themselves, even for just a day or two. It made me especially happy to see the diverse groups of people at conventions in the movie. Families who came to support their children, first timers, and veterans all are a part of the convention community, and make the space so unique. I think these gatherings are kind of like a new world opening up, similar to how some in the documentary describe their experience entering large conventions. I think it is really impressive how much work goes into planning and running these assemblies, which is highly emphasized in the documentary. Usually it comes down to fans themselves putting in months of labor for only a weekend of the actual event. It is inspiring that, despite the hard work, many people enjoy planning these events simply because of the community they know it will foster. 

Cosplay was another important part of conventions True Otaku touches on. I think what the documentary shows is that cosplay is both a performance and a way to explore identity. You can explore alternate versions of the self such as different genders, style, personalities, and so on. In a way, cosplay allows people to embody traits that they may not normally have in their regular lives. Cosplaying thereby can give someone confidence, strength, and assuredness they usually cannot express. I don’t think cosplay should be viewed as hiding from one's real self. Instead, I think it is becoming more yourself. One of the notable styles the documentary discusses is the Lolita fashion some attendees wear. While this type of clothing would be seen as “weird” or “out of style” in the outside world, conventions allow for people to express their interest in this fashion comfortably, and connect with others who also enjoy the clothing. Cosplay is merely a way to be more secure in expressing one's self. Specifically, gender presentation can be explored with cosplay. Many choose to cross-dress to embody characters that they connect with and want to be more like. Cosplay allows for this to be done in a safe environment, because everyone is experimenting. On another note, it is especially impressive how much time, money, and energy is put into making costumes for cosplaying. The dedication is almost like an act of devotion for the fandom as it is often hours spent hand sewing, prop building, and practicing makeup art to perfect a creation. There is evidence from the documentary that those who cosplay value the process just as much as the final product, like how Dust Bunny describes her experience as a cosplayer. There is a sense of achievement with creating something almost entirely yourself, which is very understandable. I often feel proud of my hard work finally paying off, whether it be in athletics or academics, to reveal a beautiful result. I think this part of fandom also emphasizes the creativity many fans have and are willing to utilize for their fandom and expressing themselves, proving there are no rules one must follow in fandom, which is why it is so freeing.  

Overall, I think fandom is more than just a hobby. Fandom is a way of exploring who you are through what you are passionate about. Conventions offer safe and supportive places to engage in this self discovery. With current technology, fandoms have spread widely around the internet, allowing people to showcase themselves through art, cosplay, and fanfiction from their homes but still as a part of this community. I like how the beginning of the documentary asks people if they think they are an “otaku” and what the terms means to them. Overwhelmingly fans agreed that they are otaku, even though the term carries a negative connotation in Japan. Fans now are beginning to change the word into something positive. Otaku are creative, passionate, and connected people, who explore interests as a community. While I am not sure I consider myself an otaku, I think the community they have built for themselves across the world should be admired. Emotionally, fandoms are shown to have helped people through hardships. Faced with mental battles of trauma or depression or a lack of fitting into society, people turn to fandom to find support not just by the object of entertainment, but by others in the community. This is displayed countless times in the documentary and proves that conventions allow for both a fun experience and inner healing. I think I may attend a convention in the future, in hopes of feeling the sense of belonging many of those shown in the film describe.

[kaitlynmariadunne]

Your reactions and thoughts are both relatable and interesting, and you raise some concerns I missed during my viewings! Your issue with the Sailor Moon weightloss episode, for example, is something I also found problematic. The show is made for young girls, so it is troubling to see the young girl who is supposed to be a role model in the show encouraged to eat less and over exercise until she nearly collapses. I think this reflects the way harmful body image messages are spread on the internet and even normalized in the media for young girls to view. This complex message is explained well by Newsom as it highlights the complexities promoting femininity entails, with empowering girls while also creating damaging expectations or habits. Overall, I’m glad you pointed that episode out because it is an issue that young girls face in the media every day.

Additionally, I completely agree that Aggretsuko reminded me a bit of Zootopia, with all the animals working like humans do. The critique on gender assumptions is especially relevant through the creator’s choice to make the characters animals. I think the karaoke battle scene was empowering, even if no one remembered it, making the humor of the show stand out and help convey messages in a light-hearted but memorable way.

Finally, your mention of teachers’ influence on the students’ behaviors and reactions to Nitori’s and Takatsuki’s choices to switch uniforms is very clever. It reminds me first of Butler’s idea that gender norms are reinforced through individuals and establishments like schools to influence children from a young age. I agree that, if the teachers had been more accepting of the uniform switches, the children in class may have not reacted so harshly to the transformations. If institutions begin to allow the experimentation of gender from a young age, the younger generation of society will begin to be more accepting of those who aren't the same as them. The teachers’ disturbed reactions to the students changing uniforms made the other children act the same way to their classmates they saw as “different.” I like how you mention that it doesn’t hurt to experiment with gender, so letting children do so can only benefit both them and communities as a whole. Overall, I like your takes and points on these series, especially your honesty regarding experimenting with gender and the danger the media can have on young girls’ images of themselves.

Sailor Moon, Aggretsuko, and Wandering Song Blog Post

Sailor Moon

I actually really liked this show! I couldn't really tell if it was directed towards kids, but I still found it very entertaining! I might continue to watch this show - I like how light-hearted it is, and it reminds me of shows I used to watch when I was a kid, like My Little Pony so it was very nostalgic for me. I thought that the episode about Usagi and her friends wanting to lose weight was so strange though. If this is a show directed towards young girls, I don't think it's a good message to be sending. Not only does Usagi stop eating and exercises excessively, her family also tells her to eat less and exercise more, rather than telling her that it's ok to be gaining weight since she's still growing. It's just crazy to me how her parents didn't even seem to express concern for Usagi and her relationship with food and her body. Other than that, I still enjoyed the show.

Usagi and her friends at the new weight loss center that encourages excessive exercise and poor eating habits.

Aggretsuko

I liked this anime as well even though it was very different from the other animes we've watched so far, in terms of the artistic style. In the other animes we've watched, I became so used to seeing characters with big eyes and characters that we're human. It was cool to see an animated world where everyone was anthromorphic animal. It kind of reminded me of Zootopia. The anime was pretty funny, especially Gori and Washimi. Aggretsuko showed the reality of the expectations for women in the workplace in a comical and exaggerated way. Although most women wouldn't stand up to their boss by fighting in a karaoke battle, it was still great at showing the hardships of women in the workplace and the abuse of power by executives.

Retsuko and Director Ton's karaoke battle - Retsuko expresses the unjust things that Ton has said and done to Retsuko.

Wandering Son

I really liked the message of this anime and how talked about transgenderism in children and how others perceive children who are transgender. Often times uniforms are required in schools to promote equality and limit distractions, but having separate uniforms for girls and boys can be tough for children who are transgender. I thought that the way the teachers reacted to the few children that wore uniforms of the opposite gender was a little awkward - like they wanted to say something but they didn't really want to be mean. I think that this behavior and mindset influences the other students, causing them to stare and judge. It shouldn't matter what a child wants to wear to school, as long as they are doing their duty as students to learn and work hard. To see children feel discomfort in their bodies is so devastating, and while there are many controversies in terms of transgenderism, especially for children, if a child is visibly uncomfortable with who they are, it might not hurt to give them a chance to experiment with gender.

Shuichi as a boy vs Shuichi as a girl - allowing children to express themselves through clothing and being able to present as a different gender may help them feel more comfortable and figure whether or not transitioning is right for them.

[kaitlynmariadunne]

Sailor Moon, Aggretsuko, and Wandering Son

Watching these three anime I began to seriously see how gender and gender performance is a part of my everyday life. In Sailor Moon I recognized how, as a young female, I can relate to Usagi, who loves jewelry and cries a little more than most people. I enjoyed seeing this hyper-femininity in a good light, not criticized but featured as a highlight of her character. It is refreshing to see media that doesn't make fun of young girls and instead makes them super warriors. I found the beginning of Aggretsuko hilarious, from Retsuko being excited to start a new job and immediately hurting herself and hating her job. I found the concept with animals interesting, as it was a new way to view how gender is perceived through clothing and mannerisms. Wandering Son is an outlier in this group. While Sailor Moon and Aggretsuko are comical and lighthearted, Wandering Son offers a truthful story of young people discovering their identity, even going against what they have learned and undergoing scrutiny to feel comfortable. Nitori’s story reveals the mental battle those who don’t identify with what is considered “normal” go through in wanting to be themselves. Overall, these anime give me new perspectives on the construct of gender and how it affects nearly everything.

Sailor Moon felt nostalgic, like watching a cartoon from when I was younger. I love how Usagi’s personality, however unheroic it seems, became the source of her power, unaltered and genuine. I like how the article by Newsom points out that femininity is a super power in the show. Normally the media presents crying or being overly emotional as a weak trait. Sailor Moon insists otherwise. I think this media is a good step towards making femininity more acceptable in both girls and boys. I think the show challenges the idea that girls can not be “tough.” Saving her town and friends from monsters while balancing school and makeup proves that girls can navigate both being strong and showcase femininity if that is what they wish to do. As a girl, I find the show inspiring. I think it reflects the global pressures girls face in balancing social life, academic expectations, and responsibilities. These pressures often hit girls at a young age, forcing them to grow up quickly. Luna pushing Usagi to fight monsters and save her community, reminds me of these pressures. Seen in Japan and the entire globe, the pressures young girls face from society and their families is unmatched. I like how Sailor Moon  allows Usagi to act grown up, through her battles, but allows her to return to her younger self after, like a relief from adult pressures. When contemplating Butler’s theory I think Usagi performs her identity constantly, even though she performs two identities: one of a “normal” young girl and one of a magic girl. She is sincere in both performances, making me question if everyone performs their gender with sincerity. I assume they don't, but it leaves me wondering.

I find it funny how close to home Aggretsuko hits. The struggle to keep her composure at work and her secret death metal karaoke from her friends reminds me of how I have a different outward personality in front of others than I do in private or around close friends. I think the global issue that is seen in this anime is the passive-aggressive atmosphere apparent in Retsuko’s workplace. The gender norms of the office are clear, as Retsuko is expected to quietly endure the hostile environment and serve tea to her boss with a smile. The sad truth is that this is a reality for women in many cultures, as well as Japan. I also can relate to Season 2 Retsuko who navigates a potential marriage situation, but doesn't feel ready to commit. It is hard to give yourself entirely to one person, and feeling tied down is an enormous amount of pressure. To make things worse, when parents are involved it can become an even more sensitive topic. It is clear Retsuko’s mother would like her to “settle down,” an old expectation for women to get married and start families before they are “too old.” The tension between Retsuko and her mother reminds me of tension some of my family has because of different views, often due to generational differences in societal norms. I think the main issue in Aggretsuko is how women navigate patriarchal corporate systems. From a global perspective, women are expected to just live with unjust societal norms that put increasing pressure on how they behave in every aspect of their lives. I also think the idea of gender performativity is prevalent in this anime, as Butler’s ideas explain how Retsuko’s cute and obedient demeanor is merely a conditioned survival method to allow her to fit into society. Retsuko’s true self only comes out in the karaoke booth, when no one is watching, which I’m afraid many women can relate to.

Finally, the touching story of Wandering Son depicts young children delicately navigating gender identity. Even though I can’t personally relate to Nitori and Takatsuki, the show captures your attention through displaying the awkwardness of growing up in a body that doesn’t feel like your true self. Even those who can’t relate to Nitori’s exact struggles can still understand feelings of not belonging, making the show impactful for all viewers. I especially like how the show quietly allows viewers to experience the characters’ lives. There is no loud message about acceptance or changing society, the show chooses to display its message simply through telling Nitori’s and her friends’ stories and forcing viewers to feel. Honestly, this is why I loved the show's take on trans lives, as it makes it understandable, even to someone who knows nothing about that lifestyle. I think it is clear that Japan’s strict gender roles are an issue discussed in the anime. School uniforms intended to enforce these roles are a major point in the series, with the children changing uniforms to feel more comfortable. The classroom setting that allows students to experiment with gender-bent plays is also something I find uniquely Japanese. The shame of feeling like you don’t belong in the role society places you in, however, is a universal issue experienced in many societies. Young people all over experience immense pressure and stress trying to fit into a society that was crafted for limited types of people. Butler’s theory is probably most relevant in this series, as all characters actively perform gender, through obeying societal expectations or completely going against and resisting them. There are many active performances characters put on in discovering how they feel about gender. Specifically, Takatsuki’s struggle to display femininity makes me wonder if I was only taught the behaviors I casually do now to be a “proper” girl, or if this is a choice I make myself to fit in, or if this is how I want to act. I think the most drastic aspect of Wandering Son is that it forces audiences to realize how young struggles with identity, specifically gender identity, can occur and how society should create more paths for children to comfortably discover who they are without judgement or persecution.

Overall all these three shows depict gender in their own way, but always as a way to become one’s true self despite oppression. These anime made me realize the struggles many have gone through regarding questioning identity and how gender is perceived, giving me insight on how my gender may affect me in later years when I enter the workforce. I am glad I was able to watch and learn from these works, to understand better my own self and those around me.

[kaitlynmariadunne]

I also think that Genshiken is one of the first anime I’ve seen to reflect a realistic depiction of life and identity, away from the extremes of dystopian societies and futuristic technology. I really like how you describe the anime as allowing young adults to find where they belong without pretending. This is an emotional aspect of the show when you consider how important forming your identity is at a young age. The series is very grounded, like you mention, which is rare to find in an anime, featuring awkward social interactions, relationships, and insecurities. All of these are illustrated so honestly, and it’s powerful to behold, especially looking at how the characters are placed into a world that isn’t accepting of them, but still find a way to navigate it.

The social expectations set in Japan that you mention remind me of how Sasahara hesitates to call himself an otaku at first, for a reason well explained in Azuma’s “Otaku: Japan’s Database Animals.” Sasahara isn't just afraid of how he is perceived and judged, he’s not sure of how to define himself in a world that allows identity to be built from many fragments. I think the series doesn’t just show viewers people who love gaming, anime, and manga, but also what it means to be a fan. I think the show also paints the idea that one can be a true fan without losing themselves in the process, very important for eliminating the current stereotype of the otaku in Japan.

Your point about Saki working through feelings of discomfort to reach curiosity and eventual respect for the club also stood out to me. I think this is a subtle example of how misconceptions can be fixed if people only took more time and a closer look at the otaku culture. By listening and finding respect for a group's passion, it opens many doors to further and mutual understanding between groups. I don’t think that fandoms that are looked down upon for being outside of the norm of a society should be looked down upon. If anything, these groups help society to think differently about what is “normal,” depicted well through Saki’s character and her development in the show.

Finally, I think you're completely right that some of our public identity is likely shaped through what we feel safe presenting outwards. I also wonder whether this has influenced me. Do I hide passions because I’m afraid they’ll seem strange? The show doesn’t offer any answers to these questions, but, in my opinion, it suggests that there are always communities that are kind and accepting, you just have to be willing to accept them.

Genshiken

Out of all the anime we’ve watched, Genshiken felt the most grounded and real. It didn’t have crazy battles or dystopian worlds—just a group of people trying to figure themselves out through their shared love of anime, manga, and gaming. What stood out to me was how it showed the struggle of being different in a society that expects everyone to fit a certain mold. In Japan, where social pressure and expectations are strong, being an "otaku" can mean being judged or misunderstood. But honestly, that happens everywhere, not just in Japan.

Watching the characters interact reminded me of times I’ve felt out of place for liking certain things or not fitting into whatever “normal” was supposed to look like. The way they found community in each other hit me the most. It’s not always about being accepted by everyone, but about finding people who just get you. That’s what Genshiken was really about to me—finding belonging in a space where you don’t have to pretend.

One part that stood out was how Saki, someone from outside the otaku world, slowly began to understand and even respect the group. It reminded me of how people can change once they actually take the time to learn instead of judge. That’s something that definitely applies to real life.

I also think Genshiken raised questions about identity and hobbies—how much we let them define us, and how we manage the balance between who we are in private versus in public. That’s something I’m still figuring out myself.

Overall, Genshiken wasn’t flashy, but it was real. It made me reflect on friendship, judgment, and what it means to truly feel seen. For that reason, it’s probably the one I related to the most.

[kaitlynmariadunne]

Genshiken

While I am not enough of an anime fan to be considered an “otaku,” I did thoroughly enjoy watching this series. This show allowed me to experience how die-hard fans of manga, anime, and dōjinshi view everyday life, as well as themselves. I especially enjoyed watching how some of the members of Genshiken slowly grow from being embarrassed to show what they loved to being comfortable throughout the series. I think the characters are realistic in many ways, from their relationships to their uncertainties and self-consciousness. Sasahara is one of my favorites, as he starts off unsure whether or not to join the club (unlike Kousaka), but gets increasingly involved with activities and finds true friends. It was particularly interesting to see what Japan’s fandoms look like, through the convention known as ComiFest, and how Japan perceives American fans. I honestly find it hilarious that Americans are perceived as blonde-haired, blue-eyed, and incredibly annoying, which may have more than a little truth to it.

It is clear that there are some issues addressed in the anime relevant to Japan. The most obvious one is how obsessed fans, or otaku, are viewed by other members of society. This is evident in both how the characters talk about themselves or each other, but it is most clear through the perspective of Kasukabe. As the only member of the club who isn’t an otaku, her reactions to how members act serve as the “outside” perspective of these fans. While initially Kasukabe is disturbed by the members and their habits, she eventually becomes a part of the club and dates a member. This aspect of the show proves that, although the slightly awkward, socially withdrawn characters might not be considered the model for youth in Japan, they are not bad people like some think. Even if they stray from the social norm, otaku are painted as complex characters who battle both outside assumptions and their own insecurities in the show. While the show depicts this phenomenon in Japan, where there is more distaste for otaku, there is global relevance to the show. Anyone can lose themselves to fandom, but it is more accepted in western cultures. I personally don’t think these obsessions should be your entire identity, but I see nothing wrong with being engrossed in pop culture. If a certain fandom allows you to be unapologetically yourself, then I think you have the duty to be involved.

In my own life, I can relate to this anime quite a bit. The show doesn't glorify or ridicule fandoms, instead, it shows the good and the bad, the joy and the awkwardness. I think I have felt scared to show my real interest because of fear of being judged by those around me. When I was younger, I really liked Marvel and the Avengers. I was afraid to really express this interest, however, because I thought I would be seen as weird by others. This I feel is similar to Ogiue, who initially hides her interests of yaoi for fear of being mocked. In my life, I was able to overcome this fear by finding people who shared my fascinations. Through social media, fan pages, and fan fiction, I was able to enjoy my passions. In the series, Ogiue remains shy, but accepts her interests and indulges in them. She even sells her own dōjinshi, showing that she is comfortable with herself at last. I think the anime does a great job of showing that fandom culture isn’t something that should be avoided, and gives me confidence to be honest with my own interests in real life.

I believe the anime represents the best and the most embarrassing parts of otaku culture and does so in a way that reflects aspects of Fiske’s The Cultural Economy of Fandom. This is seen multiple times in many different ways during the show. Creating dōjinshi for ComiFest, making costumes for cosplay, and discussing meaning behind their fascinations is what brings the characters joy and illustrates them actively consuming their entertainment. Not only do characters consume mass quantities of manga, anime, and other pop culture materials, they expand on it, making it their own. This is probably my favorite quality of the show because, despite being ashamed at times for what they like, characters work hard to create something new from the existing, which also reflects the ideas from Azuma’s article, Otaku: Japan’s Database Animals. In my opinion, this also goes against the ideas outsiders have of otaku. The characters in the show may be a bit shy, but when it comes to the things they love, they are open with members of the club, proving that a safe space can mean everything. From watching this show, it seems the sense of community within Genshiken is closer and more authentic than most of the other communities I have seen in real life, heavily contrasting the idea that these individuals are recluses. Instead, I see otaku and the characters we see in Genshiken as motivated and passionate people who have all my respect.

[kaitlynmariadunne]

I agree that Naruto’s story is incredibly moving in that he spends most of his life and nearly all of his childhood being seen as a threat. Even after constant rejection, Naruto desires to be seen by those around him, and stops at nothing to achieve this goal. It is rewarding to see him flourish at the end, hoisted up by the people who once avoided him, and proves that hard work can overcome discrimination in some cases. This also makes me believe that time can change a society, which gives me high expectations for the real world.

I failed to notice the theme of motherhood in Wolf Children during my viewing. You make a compelling argument about how Hana gives up much for her children’s freedom. The story does seem to be a critique on the almost unreachable expectation set for mothers, even more so for single mothers. I like how you talk about how she lets her children choose their own path. In a world where most people just follow what their parents wish, giving children the chance to decide what is right for them is rare, but increasingly necessary as the world becomes more complex and children’s heritages start to encompass more cultures.

I also see similarities between A Silent Voice and schools, where kids are harsh, judgemental, and exclude those who aren’t like themselves. The film does show guilt and shame, and the effects they have even years after the original harm is done. I think Shoko’s resilience and readiness to forgive paints a bright picture for the future. Those who are bullied or discriminated against as well as bullies and discriminators have the chance to grow, either becoming more assured of themselves or realizing the mistakes of their past and changing their attitudes. This film is an all too realistic depiction of how much harm discrimination can do, as you explain how it is seen in schools, with young children. While that may seem hopeless, I think the anime’s spin on how the abuser can be forgiven and change society as a whole makes me have hope for the future, just as the other anime have in their own way.

I especially like the last point you make about empathy being evoked in you while watching each of these works. While all characters come from different backgrounds, it is their struggle to fit into a society that outcasts them that is universal. I like specifically how the anime discussed don’t sugar coat their messages, making viewers feel deeply for the characters and their fight to be included in society. There isn’t an easy answer to solving these issues, only learning from mistakes and trying to be better for the next generation, which is how each of these works inspire me to be better for myself and those who come after me.

Naruto, Wolf Children, and A Silent Voice

Watching Naruto, Wolf Children, and A Silent Voice back to back really hit me in different emotional ways. Each anime takes a unique approach to talking about struggles that feel both specific to Japanese society and also universal. What stood out most was how all three focused on isolation, acceptance, and the challenges of fitting into a world that doesn’t always make space for who you really are.

Naruto shows this through its main character being ostracized for something he didn’t choose—the Nine-Tails inside him. He spends most of his life being treated like a threat, and yet he keeps pushing to be accepted and become Hokage. That drive really spoke to me, especially when people underestimate you or see only one side of you.

Wolf Children felt different—it’s about the quiet strength of motherhood and what it means to raise kids who don’t fit into the mold. The mother sacrifices so much just to give her kids a chance to choose their path. It made me think of how people—especially women—are expected to juggle everything without falling apart.

And A Silent Voice probably hit the hardest. It dives into bullying, disability, depression, and guilt in a way that felt real. The way it handled forgiveness and the need to own up to your mistakes reminded me of things I’ve seen in school growing up—how quick people are to judge or exclude, and how hard it is to fix what’s broken.

All three of these anime made me think about empathy. Whether it’s Japan or anywhere else, people are trying to find where they belong. These stories don’t give easy answers, but they show that connection and understanding are where healing starts.

[kaitlynmariadunne]

Naruto, Wolf Children, and A Silent Voice

Although I only had a scattered viewing of Naruto and Naruto Shippūden, I can see why the series are such a big hit. Featuring both struggles and triumph, the show makes you invested in the plot and characters. Epic battles also hooked me on these series, with one fight spanning multiple episodes, the attention to detail is next-level. The film Wolf Children was definitely a tear jerker for me as I found myself sobbing just 20 minutes in, and again 90 minutes later. The story was sad but innovative, and comical at some points, making it one of my current anime favorites. A Silent Voice was truly a heartbreaking watch. I cringed throughout the beginning as I watched Shoko be bullied for something she never could’ve helped. The development of Shoya’s character in the film was what really sold it for me. I genuinely was angry with him at the start, but his selfless behavior in saving Shoko, while it cannot make up for his past actions, made me believe that he had changed. All three series display discrimination in different ways, but it is their authenticity that made these anime so captivating for me.

The issues depicted in these works are clearly discrimination and struggle with one’s identity. While some aspects of the anime deal with Japan specific issues, I think discrimination is relevant globally. My viewing of Naruto and the sequel Naruto Shippūden shows this issue plainly: Naruto is discriminated against because of something he could never control. It becomes clear when viewing the series that Naruto simply wants to fit in with those around him, but struggles to do so because of the way society views him. Naruto is only accepted after he goes through many hardships in order to save the village that once shunned him. This represents what many are forced to do in real life, which is to perform and prove their worth to society for acceptance. Society only accepts Naruto after his sacrifice and his risking his life for them, which leaves a bitter taste in my mouth. Does society accept him for who he is or are they only approving of this hero version of Naruto? In my personal life I have felt the pressure to earn my place in a large family. Being the youngest, I feel there is always some expectation for me to be at a certain level, and, if I fail to do so, I won’t be accepted. This feeling causes me to distance myself between me and my family, which I compensate for with hard work and dedication to my extracurriculars and academics. It is me who changes in this instance, not my family, which is similar to how Naruto changes in the anime, not society.

Wolf Children is another work that clearly depicts the issue of discrimination, but also shows a struggle with identity, especially in Japan. This film, in a fantastical way, depicts those establishing who they are with a mixed identity. In Japan, this could be coming from parents that are half Japanese and half a different race, as seen in the anime. While this is applicable to places all over the world, the anime’s depiction of this struggle in Japan is clear. To escape the onlookers from the city, Hana moves to the countryside, where, ironically, she finds herself even more watched over, which is evident of Japan’s culture to care for one’s community. But it is this new home Hana finds herself in that allows her children to grow and develop who they are away from those who would judge or fear them. While not being actively discriminated against, this film shows the struggle of those with two identities not having room to exist fully as their true selves, and suggests that only certain areas are accepting of self discovery in these instances. In the end, the film leaves me feeling like there is no real solution to discrimination other than to hide from oppressors, like Hana does for the sake of her children. I personally have not felt pulled between two cultural identities, but I can understand how the pressure to pick a side can eat away at a person, leading them to want to retreat. In the case of the film, I feel as though running away is the only option when placed into a society that won’t accept who you are, but it is not a solution I look upon fondly.

Finally, A Silent Voice is a truly agonizing film that shows bullying and the effects it causes mentally. The issue I think this movie illustrates, besides discrimination against those with disabilities, is the normalization of discriminating and bullying behaviors by children, with little to no intervention from adults, institutionalizing this conduct. On the brighter side, this film also showcases the possibility of societal change, something the other works discussed above fail to do. I think the movie shows how to heal from the past, to create a better future, emphasized through Shoya’s character development as well as Shoko’s change from hating herself to loving who she is, even if this only happens once she is accepted by society. This message is probably the one I believe in the most, nevertheless it is the one that, when practiced in real life, is the most challenging. For discrimination to truly end, the film suggests society itself has to change. But, looking at history, society doesn’t like change, seen with the centuries it takes to make any progress, namely in the United States with the time it took to end slavery, then Jim Crow Laws, then societal norms of discrimination. While I have never experienced bullying, as a female I sometimes feel myself being discriminated against for my gender. Although society has come a long way with equality between men and women, there is still more change to happen for true equality to exist. Even so, this movie gives me hope that change is possible, if individuals begin to work on themselves and break free from the institutionalized discrimination and norms we as a global society have previously accepted.

[kaitlynmariadunne]

I completely agree that watching Shin Sekai Yori is like a dream slowly turning into a nightmare that you can not escape. There is a uniquely haunting aspect of this world due to the fact it is children who are victims in the name of maintaining order. Specifically I find your post intriguing because of your reflection on how peace is ensured through erasure rather than empathy. Not only memories, but also history are deleted for the “greater good.” This aspect of the anime is especially terrifying when you consider how realistic it is to real life. Often more subtle than how the show depicts it, many nations choose to shape the lives of citizens through censorship, and justify it as public welfare. This leads me to wonder how much we as a society naively trust the way our world is structured, just as you question in your post.

Your post has me considering the ways governments have undoubtedly shaped our perspective on life. The most drastic example I think of is the Nazi book burnings. Thousands of books were destroyed, not just for being “un-German” but for the purpose of repressing the public and controlling their thoughts. It makes sense. If you control what people think, you control people. The same is true in the anime, as the children’s memories are erased to mask the disappearance of their friends, they are tricked into thinking nothing is wrong. This is a method of control, not support, and is why the anime is so chilling. When you think about how society functions in the present day, you notice eerie resemblances to the dystopian world the anime presents. From surveillance surrounding our communities, predictive policing, and artificial intelligence, it seems like we as a people are just waiting for the worst to happen. I think real harm is done when the world around you is treated like a threat instead of a gift, something I think Saki stands for in the anime.

Your point about how the show portrays sexuality is also interesting. I do think the relationships of the young characters were fluid and respectful, even with only watching the assigned episodes. The emotions and bonds built between the children, despite a repressive society, gives me hope. It may be cliche, but the phrase “love conquers all” is overwhelmingly true. The contrast between the world falling apart around the young heroines’ abilities to find happiness in the small moments is what makes their relationships so authentic. The love found in tragedy is what makes the show's illustration of young connections so heartwarming.Your final question, whether peace is worth constant sacrifice, is what makes Shin Sekai Yori so brilliant: it doesn’t really give you any answer. What the show does provide, however, is the reality that there are other options. Control to maintain peace is effective to a certain point, but what a society can do to go beyond that, is up for us to decide.

Watching Shin Sekai Yori felt like being slowly pulled into a dream that turns into a nightmare but one that you can’t stop thinking about even after it’s over. I went in expecting a sci-fi dystopia, but what I got was something way deeper: a haunting meditation on power, memory, identity, and what it means to be human.

What hit me the hardest was how peace in that world is maintained not through kindness or cooperation, but by erasing memories, controlling people from birth, and literally reshaping evolution. It was chilling. It made me think about how much of our own reality is shaped by what we’re allowed to know. How much do we blindly trust in the systems around us, just because that’s how we were raised?

There’s something deeply unsettling about watching kids grow up in a world that lies to them “for their own good.” And yet… it also made me wonder if we do the same in subtler ways. Whether it's in school, media, or even the stories we pass down, what gets left out, and why?

The show’s portrayal of sexuality also stood out to me. It felt natural and unforced, like love was just another part of growing up. No labels, no judgment. Honestly, that felt more progressive than most media I see today.

It’s the kind of anime that doesn’t just entertain it lingers. Even now, I’m still turning over its biggest question in my head: is a peaceful society still good if it demands constant sacrifice? Shin Sekai Yori doesn’t give a clear answer, and maybe that’s the point. It forces you to sit with the discomfort and I think that’s what makes it brilliant.

[kaitlynmariadunne]

Shin Sekai Yori

From a seemingly innocent coming of age story in a fantasy world, to a dark and twisted futuristic version of humanity, watching Shin Sekai Yori was both captivating and frightening. First, I was shocked that some characters “vanished” so quickly. The eradication even happens in the first episode, as seen with Reiko’s disappearance, but also with the loss of Shun, Maria, and Mamoru. This anime never failed to surprise me, with more dark secrets revealed every episode, each being more disturbing than the last. The biggest plot twist, in my opinion, was the truth behind the Queerats. First introduced in the second episode, the truth that they were actually genetically modified humans is only revealed in the last few minutes of the show, a crazy twist that changed my entire view of the anime.

I think the show makes obvious commentary on how children are often controlled to maintain order in society. The anime makes no effort to hide this, seeing as it is disclosed in the first episode that children who are not blessed with cantus, the psychokinesis power, are eliminated. Later it is revealed that not only are children without power removed, but also those who cannot wield the power successfully. This somewhat reminds me of placing systems in schools, where classes are designed to fit the needs of different kinds of children. If classes are too advanced, children will be removed from them and placed into a lower level class. While this is clearly a less extreme version of what the anime depicts, the same principle of putting children where they “belong” still stands. This removal system in both real life and the anime is damaging to society as, from my perspective, it creates the idea that some children are “better” than others. Additionally, the show discusses rule breaking children, as there are many issues with juvenile delinquents today in Japan and the rest of the world. A specific case of such criminal behavior is even depicted in the show with Boy A, a direct reference to Shonen A, a young criminal that deeply upset Japan. The anime shows that, even with a society built towards monitoring and controlling children, there will always be some that go down the wrong path. Finally, I think the anime makes comments on abortion laws, specifically how many societies have increased both access and the period in which women can receive abortion care (the United States is an exception here). The act of terminating children is legal in the community in this anime up until they are 17 years old. This is explained as being for the protection of society, but I think the show aimed to comment on abortion conflicts seen today throughout the world. The act of monitoring children to see their growth, failures, and needs is a global phenomenon, stemming from fear that unmonitored youth can cause great harm to the general public.

One of my biggest takeaways from the show is how children seem to terrify the adults. The potential that a child can turn into a “fiend” or “karma demon” is high enough that members of this future society accept murdering children as the only solution. This is an extremist belief that follows what is described in Arai’s “The ‘Wild Child’ of 1990s Japan,” as children became threats to be controlled rather than cared for. I was greatly disturbed by this reaction to the mere possibility that children could cause harm. Even when I think about horrific events like mass shootings, all too common in the United States, I cannot agree with this preemptive slaughtering of children. With this fear of children, a major issue the anime tries to convey is the normalization of acting in the name of peace. If it is for the “greater good” even despicable actions can begin to be justified, like murdering kids as the show suggests. This is the dangerous slope the anime critiques, as, when everything is done for the greater good or peace, countless people could be harmed in the process.

Another issue depicted in the show is the heavy pressure for the children to perform to the expectations of those monitoring them. In the anime, children must reach an adequate level or risk “vanishing.” This reflects modern pressures for children to achieve a great number of things in school and life from parents and peers. It can become overwhelming to feel a need to measure up to the expectations around you. Fear of disappointment or failure can be consuming. We learn about Maria and Mamoru running away from their community because they are afraid they will no longer be accepted in society. Children in real life can often develop anxiety or depression because of the pressures around them, causing them to act out like the characters of the show or even become what society was trying to prevent them from becoming in the first place. This reflects a real concern many students and young professionals have across the globe, which is often overlooked.

My final note on this anime is the commentary about dehumanization vastly seen from humans who do not possess cantus to Queerats to children. I believe this dehumanization is heightened in the show with the intense surveillance of the children it is centered around. As society fears children, they claim to surveil them so they can predict how they will act in order to intervene before they get violent. This act of monitoring inherently dehumanizes children, as they are not seen as people but as threats. The same can be said for the race known as Queerats. Even though they are intelligent beings and act extremely human, they are not seen as people. Just like the children in the show, Queerats are expected to act a certain way, and will be eliminated if they step out of line. This parallel between the monstrous rats and children is likely no accident. If you look closely, the “beasts” and children are treated very similarly, which is the anime’s strongest critique that, in contemporary times, children are seen as monsters, not people. 

Viewing this anime made me wonder what makes someone human. Is it suffering? Power? Who decides what is human? The most chilling revelation the show offers is that even being human does not mean you will be given humanity, a sad truth seen in our own world. Even though the anime left me with more questions than answers, I loved every second of Saki’s journey and learned more about how society views their most vulnerable inhabitants. 

[kaitlynmariadunne]

I appreciate your analysis of the anime and how its themes are similar to situations in the United States and technological advancements today. I specifically think your comments on how the Sibyl System fails to catch psychopaths like Makishima is interesting. While this is true on the surface – Makishima’s crime coefficient is zero despite committing multiple horrendous crimes – the anime takes this narrative further. The Sibyl System knows it can not judge Makishima, and instead of rejecting him for that reason, it recruits him. While on the surface not being able to read Makishima may seem like a flaw, the system finds Makishima as a necessary component for its evolution. This gives me the chilling realization that the system in the show will bend its moral framework to ensure it maintains power and control over the people, even if that means becoming what it claims to prevent.

You mention systems utilizing Palantir, which along with predictive policing systems, are not entirely neutral. Similar to the system seen in the anime, the ones used in the U.S. today are optimized for control, and target certain groups of people more aggressively than others, like immigrants and people of color. Often using biased historical data, programs fail to actually locate those who are “dangerous” to society. The anime offers this critique in the form of the Sibyl System, which marks people as “latent criminals” even without them ever committing a crime. This is seen first in the first episode where the crime coefficient of the hostage becomes high, despite her not doing anything wrong. This is reinforced throughout the series with the “enforcers” who we learn have high crime coefficients despite actively helping the police. The best example of this bias in the Sibyl System that reflects real-world biases in computer programs is through the character Kagari, who was deemed a latent criminal at the age of five, even though he never committed a crime. Overall, this reveals that systems look more to maintaining the status quo and power over the people than being just, similar to what you mention with the technology used by ICE. 

While I think there is merit to solving poverty with hopes of lessening crime, Psycho-Pass pushes this idea further by suggesting that any system that works towards abolishing human unpredictability will inevitably forfeit freedom, individuality, and justice – even in the name of safety. Whether it's through surveillance, artificial intelligence, or computer programs as seen in the anime, or other systems working towards preserving peace, there is always the risk of losing humanity. The anime forces us to think about whether it is better to live in a civilization without crime, or in one where people are allowed to be human.

Psycho Pass

Psycho Pass paints the picture of a futuristic surveillance society where psychological states are constantly monitored, movements are always tracked, and an omnipresent system decides people's futures. Despite being often regarded as perfect, the Sibyl System fails to recognize psychopaths such as Makishima, who feel no guilt when committing crimes. Such a system does not exist in the real world, but the surveillance methods being used share striking similarities with methods present in Psycho Pass.

Since the passing of the PATRIOT Act in 2001, government surveillance has been more widespread than ever. The Act allowed the federal government to obtain information such as financial information and phone records without a warrant. Although it's since expired, the Act established a wide surveillance network that exists to this day.

The Sibyl System was established to determine the likelihood of citizens committing crimes. Similarly, the PATRIOT Act was passed to monitor potential terrorists and to prevent acts of terrorism. Both were established to protect citizens, but are controversial due to their overreaching surveillance methods.

In the modern day, facial recognition technology is widespread. Machine learning technology has only fastened the distribution of these systems, and their massive databases are growing by the day. Although they can be used for good, like to find criminals and missing persons, they are invasive. Even if a person were innocent and had nothing to hide, such technology could allow bad actors to target certain individuals or populations.

For example, consider the current situation with ICE. Mass deportations are occurring around the country and ICE is using technology provided by Palantir to carry out these deportations. Palantir is streamlining the deportation process by using technology to identify target populations and tracking self-deportations. Additionally, Palantir is working with the current administration to create a database on every American.

Psycho Pass serves as a warning to the modern world. It showcases how panopticism and excessive surveillance restricts individual freedoms and traps society in a livestock-like state, as Makishima put it. Even under a near-perfect surveillance system, there are criminals who manage to slip through the cracks. Personally, I believe that in order to "solve" crime, we should focus on managing the motivations behind such acts, such as poverty (easier said than done, of course), rather than establishing invasive systems that trample upon freedoms and hurt innocents.

[kaitlynmariadunne]

Psycho-Pass

Wow. This anime is much darker than those I have watched previously. Starting the first episode, I was not prepared to enter into a world where everyone’s mental health is public knowledge, drones constantly surveil citizens, and a "computer" system determines their fate. Nonetheless, Psycho-Pass was a thrilling watch, full of action, hard truths, and secrecy.

The anime obviously addresses global concerns of protecting peace by any means possible – even if that means limiting freedom. In Japan specifically, the anime reflects anxieties surrounding mental health and knowing ones’ place in society, as well as the increasing need for technology for everyday life. Japan is recognized for having a current lack of mental health care success, with a heavy stigma surrounding it in the country. This anime shows a different Japan, one that is hyper aware of mental health, and the impacts that kind of society has. While currently criticised for not caring enough about mental illness, the anime offers a different critique and warning about the implications that being overly cautious of mental health can have in regards to freedom. In the show, the hue of a person’s mental state determines whether they go to therapy, displaying a society with minimal freedom despite minding the well-being of citizens. Globally, themes of surveillance are extremely prevalent, as almost nothing goes unnoticed nowadays. Cellphones, traffic and dashboard cameras, and other forms of tracking make it nearly impossible to be “off the grid,” a rising concern for privacy in many places. The anime specifically shows this as an area’s “stress level” is monitored, and people who raise the stress are taken out. The anime uses this to further comment on surveillance societies, showing how trust in these technologies can be destroyed if the programs embedded are discovered to be used against the average person, like in the shopping mall scene. This creates a large divide between the people and the computer. Predictive policing is also a major concern in the anime. With constant references to individuals’ “crime coefficients," or their likelihood to commit a crime, people are unwillingly categorized into a group, regardless of whether or not they act on their thoughts. This is a serious concern for freedom, and can be seen in the United States and other countries and is reflected in the anime most directly with the “enforcers.” Even though they are actively working to stop crimes, enforcers are treated like criminals and marked up to be nothing more than “hunting dogs.” Watching the show, I began to question the systems that decided enforcers are criminals, as they seem only to want to help others. But because a system told them who they are, they can only be that person, showing a major flaw in the principle of predictive policing all too often used around the world today.

In my own life, there have been multiple instances where the technology tracking me or sharing my location led me to act differently than I might have without that technology. For example, the app Life360 can track and share your location and speed with family and friends. As my parents require me to have the app downloaded, I am extra careful when driving, because I know I could be punished if they see that I am moving too fast. My actions have been influenced because of this technology, reinforcing the idea of panopticism. Even if my parents are not looking at the app at the time, the simple chance that they are leads me to act in a way where I know I cannot be faulted. This is obviously a step down from what is shown in the anime, but the principle still applies. People know they will likely be caught for raising an area’s stress, or for having criminal thoughts, so they avoid those things entirely. Even though “street scanners” are not realistically everywhere, citizens in the anime know there is a chance they are being scanned, and stay in line. The only time when individuals in the show stop acting in fear of being monitored is when the helmets are discovered. People finally act freely without restricting themselves because the technologies they were afraid of punishing them are rendered useless. The show made me think about the ways I am watched in my life that I don't usually think of. My university can see when I log in with my school email. There are cameras around campus. My car tracks my speed and locations traveled. My cellphone knows my activity, and consequently when I am awake and asleep. If I think about it, the society shown in Psycho-Pass is not too different than the one I live in today.

I think my main take away from the show was the limits humans put on themselves because of obedience for or fear of a powerful being. The opposite side of this view is also relevant as some people will always directly resist those with power. In the anime, the Sibyl System forces people to regulate themselves due to fear of being punished. People are constantly aware of their hue and stress level, always working to keep them adequate, despite these judgments not being physical but rather just ideas. This directly reflects concepts seen in Foucault’s Panopticism. I have to assume that, by living in this society, people consent to this information being public knowledge and monitored by the government. But I also wonder, can anyone opt out? Is it even possible to choose another way of life? Or is privacy obsolete in the future? The show seems to paint acts of rebellion as naturally violent in societies crafted to ensure “peace.” Knowing that Sibyl is not actually a computer but just hundreds of brains working together, I wonder if this is how the anime comments on computer programs having the biases of their programmers. It is proposed in the article “Machine Bias” that a program used to predict criminals’ propensity to reoffend is biased against people of color. While programmers attempt to create impartial and objective software, it is a serious issue that personal beliefs find their way into coding, usually subconsciously. The general biased and subjective nature of the human brain, makes the Sibyl System inherently unjust, and I think that is one of the anime’s biggest criticisms of society today.

[kaitlynmariadunne]

Your thoughts on how addiction is shown in Sword Art Online are very interesting! I see how the show blurs the line between reality and simulation, making it hard to distinguish between the two at times. I specifically think your point on the relationships in the virtual world being similar to real-life bonds is what makes the message of the anime so strong. If the fake world one immerses themself in offers more meaningful work and relationships, why come back to the real world? This is seen in the show as people begin to live a normalized life trapped in a simulation. Addiction to the virtual world is not outwardly spoken in the anime, but implied as people slowly stop trying to escape Aincrad. Buying homes, getting married, and building a life in a world that isn’t real symbolizes the addiction people have with online networks and media today. It is clear that life on Aincrad mimics real life very closely (with more magic and monsters of course), but, by allowing the virtual world to be so similar to life as we know it, the creators of Sword Art Online help audiences forget that it’s all a video game. Even the characters themselves forget at times that they haven't always been in that world, further symbolizing the addiction society has to simulations and avoiding reality to the point they forget what is real or not. Simulations are as addicting as ever as seen with technological developments like virtual reality headsets used for people to surround themselves in entertainment, taking them away from the real world and into their own fantasies. Simulations are even used for practical reasons like flight simulations and pilot training. It is no wonder we are so addicted to creating simulations and fake worlds, as our reliance on them as a society is seen everywhere. From pleasure to work, simulations have become a necessary and addicting part of life. The desire that the world has for new technologies and advancing our ability to create fake realities is frightening. If everyone begins to favor a fake world over the real one, what will happen?

Eden of the East and Sword Art Online

Watching Eden of the East and Sword Art Online felt like diving into two distinct yet oddly complementary visions of technology's grip on humanity. Eden of the East struck me with its sharp take on Japan's societal pressures—unemployment, isolation, and the "NEET" phenomenon. The mysterious Seleção game, with its promise of power through a digital phone, mirrors Japan's obsession with innovation but also its anxiety about losing human connection. Globally, it resonates as a cautionary tale about unchecked tech and the moral dilemmas of wielding influence in a digital age. I found myself wondering how much of my own life is shaped by invisible systems, like social media algorithms dictating my choices.

Sword Art Online, on the other hand, hit closer to home. It's a virtual reality world, where players are trapped in a game that reflects my occasional escapism through gaming. The stakes in SAO, life or death, feel so real, yet I related to Kirito's struggle to balance survival with retaining his humanity. Globally, it reflects our increasing immersion in digital spaces, blurring the distinction between real and virtual lives. I’ve caught myself losing hours to screens, so SAO’s warning about addiction and identity feels universal.

Both anime explore the double-edged sword of technology, a theme that echoes Sherry Turkle’s writings on how digital connections can foster isolation. Eden’s focus on societal reform through tech contrasts with SAO’s personal, psychological lens, yet both question who controls our digital futures. Personally, Eden made me reflect on my role in collective systems, while SAO’s intense relationships reminded me of real-life bonds tested by distance and distraction. Together, they paint a vivid picture of a world—and a Japan—grappling with technology’s promise and peril, a tension I feel navigating my own tech-saturated life.

[kaitlynmariadunne]

Eden of the East and Sword Art Online (cont.)

In the anime Sword Art Online, I was able to relate to Kirito in the beginning, where he expressed how he was glad to be in the simulation world, because his hard work was meaningful. Truthfully, it can feel like hard work doesn’t mean much, as it can’t guarantee the results you want, at least in the real world. Life isn’t fair, and luck or connections can get you further than dedication. But in this video game, if you work hard to level up and get coins, you will be successful. I can see how that kind of world is enjoyable for the people who innocently played the game before they were stuck. The simulation provides players with the unique experience to work hard and be rewarded for that hard work, something that seems to be rare in real life. While in the virtual world, the characters began to enjoy their new lives as they were, and many lost sight of escaping the game. This acceptance of the simulation world makes me think if the simulation was a better world than the real one. It is obvious the whimsical world of Aincrad would be a fun place to experience, but I wonder if life was more “fair” in the game. Again, in the first episode Kirito implies that hard work means more in the game than in real life, and isn’t that a good thing? Shouldn’t hard work determine your status? I think many places around the globe struggle with the idea of fairness. It is difficult to make something “fair” for everyone. But Kirito explains in later episodes that the game was designed to be fair for all players, similar to an ideal society. This makes me think that the simulation world could actually provide a better life than the real world could. While this is only possible because it is a game, it makes me wonder what would need to happen for a fair reality to exist for everyone. I think a simulation world offers a unique way to display the “perfect world,” whether that was the creators intention or not. Sword Art Online creates the idea that there is a way to make the world a more “fair” place through valuing actual work more than appearances or titles. But even in the simulation world, the “guilds” that form show evidence of hierarchy and power. The difference between this and the real world is that higher ranking members of guilds got to their position through dedication and effort in the game. As always there are exceptions, as seen when it was revealed the top member of Asuna’s guild was Kayaba Akihika, the creator of the game and the person who trapped them inside. He was able to get to the top of the game unfairly (he was immortal), showing that even in a “perfect” and “fair” world there will always be people that cheat the system to get on top. Maybe this implies that a “fair” world is not possible, or at least not outside of simulations. (2/2)

[kaitlynmariadunne]

Eden of the East and Sword Art Online

I thoroughly enjoyed watching both Eden of the East and Sword Art Online. By the last episode of the first season of Eden of the East, I was hooked on what was next on Akira Takizawa’s plan to save the world. I think the concept of the Selecao and the phones (and Juiz) is creative, allowing for freedom in how the characters can reach their goals. Overall, the viewing experience was captivating and thought provoking. After watching Eden of the East, I began watching Sword Art Online. Although it is a very popular anime, this was my first time hearing about and seeing the show. I was immediately addicted to this series and found the world of Aincrad enchanting. As I continued watching, I could understand why the characters began to forget their lives in the real world. The weather, towns, and scenery on Floor 59 (where Asuna and Kirito napped) alone makes you want to experience the virtual world for yourself. I think the idea of being trapped in a simulation doesn’t seem too impossible with recent technological developments, making the show even more entertaining. I loved the design of the world in Sword Art Online and the development of the characters and their relationships, making this one of the best series I’ve seen yet. 

When watching Eden of the East I noticed topics the show scrutinized relevant to issues in the world today. One of these issues is the employment dilemma in Japan. I have learned recently that the practice of “lifetime employment” in Japan, when young adults graduate and stay with one company for their entire life, was positive in the past while the economy was growing but now, because of a stagnant economy, the idea is no longer practical. The effects of this can be seen in Eden of the East. From Saki’s bad experience with the traditional employment sector to Kazuomi Hirasawa deciding to delay his graduation for a year, this anime shows the contemporary reality of the economy and employment in Japan. With the post-war system of employment no longer applicable, young members of society struggle to find decent work and often settle for less than ideal pay and benefits, or only get temporary jobs, if they even chose to find work. While looked down upon, some young people live off their parents who do have decent work. The series shows the flaws in the current system in Japan, which is not like the rest of the world that offers better ways for young people to enter the work force. To highlight this difference, Saki even goes to Washington D.C. to wish for the situation in Japan to get better, proving other countries are not experiencing the same issues that the young generation of Japan is. Even as a young person in the United States, I have easily been able to find work that suited my needs, without a lot of trouble and without shame for working part time, as that is normal for many young people in this country. The struggles that the characters in Eden of the East deal with are a bit foreign to me. Further, the anime defends young people who are looked down upon for not being employed or in school, by asserting they are useful members of society, and it is the system that prevents them from being productive. The show critiques the way things are currently done, encouraging change that will “save” the world. Specifically, it calls for a way for young people to be active members of society and the workforce. The season ends with an optimistic outlook on the future, where all people are useful in a system that allows for inclusion. I think the way Akira uses the power of the collective is a way real change can start to happen in the world. If enough people press for an issue to be solved, it will likely become a priority. I think if the young people in Japan work together, the employment situation can be fixed, and that is what the anime preaches. It emphasizes 20,000 people, who are unemployed and viewed poorly, are needed to save Japan. The mass amount of people it takes to stop the missiles represents the large number of people needed to make a difference. But the show claims that, with this large force of people, change is possible. (1/2)