Anime and Philosophy

Wide Eyed Wonder

Edited by Josef Steiff and Tristan D. Tamplin

Volume 47 in the Popular Culture and Philosophy® series

This book examines some of the most loved, best-known and intriguing anime films and series to find what lies at their core, underneath the typical but by no means ubiquitous visual elements of big eyes, big hair and bright colors. Akira, Astro Boy, Cowboy Bebop, Death Note, Dragon Ball Z, Full Metal Alchemist, Ghost in the Shell, Grave of the Fireflies, Gundam, Gunslinger Girls, Highlander, Magnetic Rose, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Robotech and Spirited Away are just a few of the films you’ll find analyzed in this volume. Some you may have heard of, others may be completely new to you.

But don’t be fooled, these are not children’s stories. These are stories about monsters, witches, robots, children and spirits who grapple with questions of societal violence, ethics, morality, justice, heroism, identity and the soul, whether in the midst of World War II or long after World War III, whether in a magical valley or on a malevolent space station.

Anime has become a worldwide phenomenon, painting its stories across a variety of genres, eras and landscapes, as well as influencing live action filmmakers like the Wachowski Brothers and Quentin Tarantino. Ghosts in the machine. Atomic-powered heroes. Pubescent girls programmed to kill. Or maybe high school students, children who disobey their parents and brothers trying to protect their little sisters.

If you’ve been wondering why so many people love anime or even if you’re already a true otaku, Anime and Philosophy will give you a deeper appreciation for not just the art but also the storytelling of Japan’s animated films, TV series and OVA (original video animation).

Josef Steiff is the Associate Chair, Film & Video Department, Columbia College, where he teaches courses in science fiction and anime among other topics. He is the author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Filmmaking. Tristan D. Tamplin has a Ph.D. in philosophy and is the principal designer at Verso Design Corporation.