Anime and Philosophy: Wide Eyed Wonder

These books teach philosophical wisdom by looking closely at entertainment icons. In each volume of this best-selling series, a team of sharp philosophical brains puts one pop culture icon (movie, TV show, or other topic) under the microscope, exposing its hidden philosophical implications in an instantly readable way. 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. 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).