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Start for freeThe Ethical Dilemma of The Trolley Problem in Fiction
When we think of moral dilemmas in fiction, few themes are as captivating and thought-provoking as the trolley problem. This ethical quandary not only tests our moral compass but also reflects deeper societal issues such as class inequality. Two seemingly disparate narratives, Snowpiercer and Hunter x Hunter, surprisingly converge on this very theme, offering us unique insights into the moral fabric that underpins their worlds.
What is The Trolley Problem?
Before delving into how these stories incorporate the trolley problem, let's first understand what it entails. The trolley problem is a moral thought experiment that presents an individual with a dire choice: to actively intervene in a scenario to save lives at the expense of another or to refrain from action, resulting in greater loss. It challenges the responder to consider the weight of their actions and the ethical rationale behind them. This problem, while simple in its formulation, opens a Pandora's box of moral and ethical considerations.
Snowpiercer: A Class Struggle on Rails
Snowpiercer presents a dystopian future where humanity's survivors live on a perpetually moving train, segregated by class. The elite enjoy luxury at the front, while the impoverished suffer at the back. As the protagonist, Curtis, uncovers the horrifying truth of child labor powering the train's engine, he's faced with a dilemma: to take over as the conductor, perpetuating the cycle, or to challenge the status quo. The film's climax offers a radical solution — destroy the train, symbolizing a break from oppressive systems and suggesting a fresh start for humanity.
Hunter x Hunter: A Succession War’s Moral Quandary
In Hunter x Hunter, the current Succession War arc thrusts us into a royal bloodbath, where princes vie for the throne in a deadly contest. Here, the trolley problem manifests in the moral decisions characters must make to survive and protect others. The story suggests that the real battle is not against each other but against the very system that pits them in this deadly game. Through characters like Hulkenberg, who seeks to change the system from within, the narrative explores the complexities of making moral choices for the greater good, even if it means sacrificing one's own humanity.
The Trolley Problem: A Reflection of Real-World Issues
Both narratives use the trolley problem to shed light on real-world issues such as class inequality and the sacrifices individuals are forced to make within oppressive systems. They challenge viewers and readers to reflect on their own moral choices and the societal structures that influence those decisions. By presenting extreme scenarios, they prompt us to think outside the box and question if there might be a third option, one that doesn't require sacrificing human lives.
Concluding Thoughts
The incorporation of the trolley problem in Snowpiercer and Hunter x Hunter serves as a powerful tool to explore complex moral and ethical dilemmas. It forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about our society and ourselves. While both stories offer different resolutions, they share a common thread — the belief in the potential for change and the power of creative thinking to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. As we navigate through these narratives, we're reminded of the importance of empathy, friendship, and the human connection, proving that sometimes, the most heroic act is to challenge the status quo and imagine a better world for all.
For those interested in exploring these themes further, I highly recommend watching Snowpiercer and reading the latest arc of Hunter x Hunter. Prepare to embark on a journey that not only entertains but also provokes deep thought and reflection on the ethical dilemmas that define our humanity.
