01. Philosophical exploration

The field of philosophical exploration in anime is vast! Philosophical approaches can be made through narratives, character development, or even by building entire storylines around philosophical themes.

You can find questions surrounding existentialism in ‘Neon Genesis Evangelion’ and ‘Cowboy Bebop,’ explore ethical and moral themes with ‘Death Note’ and ‘Psycho-Pass,’ or even learn about the individual vs. societal dilemma in ‘Akira’ and ‘Sword Art Online.’

Contemplating and reflecting on profound questions can be done through anime, and many academic works have researched anime and its relations with philosophy, such as ‘Anime and Philosophy: Wide-Eyed Wonder’ edited by Josef Steiff and Tristan D. Tamplin, and ‘The Philosophy of Anime’ by Irwin, William.