Mob Psycho 100: Why Superheroes Don't Matter - Wisecrack Edition

In our severely effed up world, Mob Psycho provides some excellently wholesome anime entertainment. At the same time, the show grapples with some pretty deep philosophical issues about finding meaning in the world. Let's dive in in this Wisecrack Edition on Mob Psycho 100: Why Superheroes Don't Matter.
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Written by: Thomas Ambrosini
Directed by: Michael Luxemburg
Hosted by: Michael Burns
Motion Graphics by: Luke Gibson (lukegibson.tv)
Editing by: Isaac Gilbert
Produced by: Evan Yee
© 2019 Wisecrack / Omnia Media, Inc.
#mobpsycho100 #superheroes #anime

[@iannordin5250]

ONE seems to base a lot of his themes around the meaninglessness of escapist power, and in that sense, he's one of the most interesting voices in manga.

[@zenxmizuki]

you can say that he's a rebellious one in this era of anime riddled with escapist(isekai) anime that features self insert protagonists that are somehow special and get everything they desire(or the viewers that is). ONE hits you like a dump truck with a harsh slap of reality while at the same time, offering a helping hand to help you face it.

[@bremensims6086]

@@zenxmizuki That's quite the username.

[@brandonlai4299]

Like mikasa

[@white0thunderwhite0thunder71]

Sounds like something that should've happened to Endeavor.

[@bgboof7482]

He reminds me a lot of hideaki anno. (Neon genesis evangelion). Makes a super fictional show but adds extreme levels of humanity to it.

[@kolapon6832]

The thin line between "I'm the protagonists of my own life" and "You are not the center of the world" has never been better defined as it was in Mob Psycho.

[@grantgardner9075]

Mob Psycho 100 really hit me hard. I used to always search for ways to be better than everyone else. Mostly through academics and hobbies, but also things like not swearing, having an "advanced" taste in music, not conforming to either side of a debate, and even faking being humble because I knew it was a good trait. It was only when I started attending college and met true geniuses did I realize that I'm only average, and that's okay. A whole society of average people working together is an incredible thing and I'm proud to make my average-sized contribution.

[@anoopsingh4825]

I see what you mean but I don't think it's bad to try being better than everyone else if it leads to you being a better version of yourself. It's fine to accept being average but if you can be better why not. To me what I got from Mob is more so choosing what fulfills you and trying to achieve it not letting something your exceptional at your born with dictate how you should live if its not what you want.

[@claytonharting9899]

Anoop Singh That’s a good interpretation I think. It’s true there’s nothing wrong with trying to outcompete those around you. But the key is realizing that you might be better than someone at a particular task, you can’t be better than them as a person. Everyone is fundamentally average, because every average person has something they’re really talented at. Even if it’s something small or something they don’t realize yet. I love competing though. It’s fun and a good way for everyone to improve

[@pearlyp9898]

Yeah, like, everyone has potential to be great, and there's nothing wrong with trying to reach that potential, but it's equally important to realize that you're human and not alone in the world.

[@severusfloki5778]

What do you mean by true geniuses

[@eduardofreitas8336]

@@claytonharting9899 The question is why are you competing though. Like you said, if it's because it's fun, and it really doesn't matter in the end, sure. The joy of improving is soo rewarding! But I think it's fair to realize our modern society pressures us and can easily put so much meaning of self worth behind even the silliest competitions (no matter the big ones, like power, money, sex). Even talking about "the best version of ourselves", what this even means? It's up to us to decide. I am a psychologist and what I see the most is people with this image of "best version", although by good intentions, being warped by a kind of emotion (fear, pride, guilt), and that can turn an otherwise enjoyable life to a living hell.

[@erikeverson7812]

In other stories (The Incredibles comes to mind most strongly) the adage, "If everyone is special, then no one is special," is viewed negatively, but Mob Psycho flips it to, "You aren't special BECAUSE everyone is special," and it becomes a much more positive message. Specialness exists within society, not apart from it.

[@claytonharting9899]

Erik Everson Exactly! Everyone’s unique and thus important, but nobody’s special above others. And this isn’t a bad thing for those who would be special by some measure. It’s a good thing. It means they can be whoever they want without being tied down to the role that their specialness would pin them to.

[@pearlyp9898]

_If everyone is not special, may be you can be who you want to be~_

[@j0an-07-arc6]

Erik Everson I think it’s the same if everyone is special no one is if no one is special everyone is in the end we’re all average

[@jlupus8804]

I love how MP100 opposes Incredibles. In the movie, Dash's argument was that being above everyone else is what gave his skill meaning. But what if only supers existed? His power would still be unique, so he would still be special. So what if the spotlight wasn't on him as much? Society shouldn't exist just to worship him. Conversely, Incredibles makes an argument about society's ideals for greatness. MP100 doesn't do that, does it? "Maybe you can be who you want to be"? What if what you want to be is irresponsible? Surely those who use their gifts and embrace the personalities attached to them, surely those people are great, are they not? Surely those people deserve praise for reaching the ideals we all strive to reach, do they not? The dichotomy between the 2 are important, and should not be overlooked. They could almost exist in the same world, yet they're ideologically opposed. I've considered making videos on movies/shows that are like that. It doesn't even have to be me, it's just something that needs to happen.

[@2halosani]

The main theme song literally says "if everyone is not special maybe you can be who you want to be" and that shit stuck with me

[@erickoenig9768]

I love this series because it articulates the fundamental of messages of Shonen Anime and Manga - work hard, pursue your dreams, and make friends - but does it in a way that opposes Shonen's impulse towards emphasizing powerful people's "powers" over their qualities as people. Most of the most famous Shonen stories like Naruto, My Hero Academia, One Piece, et. al. are designed to emphasize the importance of the character's power as a vehicle for both growth and conflict because their narrative focus is on action rather than a slice of life narrative. In those stories, it is essential that you refine your psychic blasts because then people like you more. Otherwise, you can't beat the enemy of the weak into the dirt and prove your value to the world. And so the audience identifies the power as the important thing; not the fact that the characters are also emotionally intelligent, caring, and compassionate. But Mob takes that essential formula and parses it into two subplots: the Psychic world and the real world. And by doing so, allows us to see the essential message of all shonen, but in a way that makes it more real and actionable. You can make the decision to get fit, join clubs, and care about others while also pursuing your dreams. And the pursuit of your passion can just be another part of your life that isn't a big deal. It also allows for ONE to make a statement about the potential toxicity of over-identifying with your favorite super-powered protagonists at the expense of living your life meaningfully in the spirit of them. It's like Neon Genesis Evangelion's swipes at Otaku culture, except kind. All that is to say, after watching Mob Psycho 100, I got a reality-check, and decided to stop waiting until I was super-awesome and beyond reproach to pursue my dreams and just go after them, and take the boring, mundane steps to make myself a better person. Working out, going to meet people in real life; learning to diet patiently; budgeting. My life has gotten a lot better. I've lost some weight, and i've gotten a bit more confident. I'm financially healthier. I'm still a long way off, but I'm getting there. It's nice.

[@jeffzhang9705]

Eric Koenig I’m currently writing an essay on EVA and Mob Psycho 100. The way you’ve phrased some of your ideas is so clear; can I straight up quote you?

[@erickoenig9768]

@@jeffzhang9705 I'm very glad to hear that. thank you for the kind words. Of course, go for it, my friend.

[@eduardofreitas8336]

Yep. It takes a lot of things I learnt in my journey as a psychologist (and most importantly, as a person who used to suffer too much). There's so many aspects of this, but one simple and practical is perfectionism. I used to be incapable of putting anything out there wich wasn't to the highest of my standards, this stumped me so much. Over time I realized that there's no problem with anything not being "perfect", there's always time for improving it later, and its more enjoyable, less stressful, and more practical to just be putting yourself out there at the stages you're at, and having fun along the way.

[@erickoenig9768]

@@eduardofreitas8336 Totally my man. This show really changed my view of perfectionism.

[@ramit7]

just to be clear, one piece isn't the simplistic reduction you make of it...

[@erikteutloff2183]

Teru (S1): I'm the main character of the world. Mob (S2): I'm the protagonist of my life. Two similar, but different thoughts.

[@adamstephens8220]

Teru thinks that he is the actually main character of the whole world. While mob is the pro of his own life and not the whole world. Everyone is a main character of their own unique stories.

[@yadii862]

Mob psychob 100 its easily one of the best anime out there. With only 2 seasons its an amazing story with powerful scenes

[@scroogemcduck8509]

Lol season 3 might break us

[@hubbabubba2570]

It's an anime people today need to see. Mob is essentially Superman in almost every way, a god who can see that his gifts' value are superficial and that because nothing is hard for him using his powers they lack the value of smb doing their best. That mob scene with the can and henchmen gave me Superman American Alien flashbacks.

[@algotn]

@@scroogemcduck8509 hate to break it to you, but there is not going to be another season.

[@joshbrown2217]

@@algotn What are you talking about? Where are you getting that from? All the articles on the internet from about a month ago says that there will still be one, but that it will be delayed due to covid

[@algotn]

@@joshbrown2217 wait what? I might remember wrong (i hope i did) but didn't season 2 end on like the last chapter of the manga?

[@stranger6822]

You missed one of the biggest comparisons for Mob Psycho: the work of Carl Jung. Jung said, "modern people can't see God because they won't look low enough." Mob Psycho reflects this with Mob's focus on mundane life and personal bonds despite his incredible power. We see this in One's other major work, One Punch Man, as well. Godlike power doesn't make Saitama feel more fulfilled, but his relationships with other people do. The villains have their eyes on heaven or a similar otherworldly goal that places them above everyone else. The heroes have their eyes on the ground. The lesson is clear. Don't try to be a God walking among men. Instead, strive to be a useful member of society who helps and is helped by the people around you.

[@slothbaby2104]

Fuck yeah boi

[@DasMegaman8LP]

so true

[@JonahPleatherbooth]

Aye aye. Min Maxing is for dungeons and dragons.

[@manumudgal4988]

nice analysis

[@rainydeestar4806]

Pretty sure this analysis comes from another video

[@chokelattae8816]

Every story that One has made is about heroes who already have unlimited power. The story is just how they go about handling the power and how to be a decent human being even with certain traits. That one speech Reigen have to Mob when he was little reminded me to be a better human being and it just hung around in my mind ever since I saw that. Iconic moment

[@shaggyspade2468]

Gosh I love wisecrack, and the philosophical creativity it generates in people. Shame channels that use cartoon imagery like them will be killed by the FTC and COPPA the government and KZbin ruin everything, I hope Wisecrack survives.

[@chokelattae8816]

Shaggy Spade I KNOW please don’t remind just thinking of that makes me sad. All of this quality content shouldn’t be taken down

[@ellisellis3141]

@@chokelattae8816 Wow I'm really glad to see people talk about the whole FTC thing too many youtubers think it won't effect them, its good to know that there are people who will actually talk about it!

[@note4note804]

You are all worried for nothing. This is a channel about philosophy. Guarantee the demographics of the channel are probably less than 1% of viewers are younger than 15. Far far more likely COPPA will go after channels that have obvious child demographics *cough cough Markiplier*

[@CruxDefender]

note4note What if Wisecrack devotes a program to the wisdom of Frozen II? It won’t in the future because it would be too risky.

[@brokeneyes6615]

“Is that me? Is that me more powerful than me? I’ll f%#!ing kill me!” -Vegeta DBZ:A

[@VeNoMziV]

Broken Eyes which episode is that?

[@ramkumarm8957]

No context?

[@cvox607]

Mob 100 is a top tier story that should be watched by anyone Anime fan or not

[@hozay6552]

Honestly, it's not like any other anime I have seen before. The bond is not only made between characters in the story, but also with the viewer. I even like the simplicity behind it and its purpose. It's beautiful.

[@dwiretno2782]

Agreed 💯

[@presidenttogekiss635]

To me the lesson in Mob Psycho is that you can't let something you are good at take control over your life and become the only thing that matters to you. I used to think I was THE SHIT because I was smart, even as I made excuses not to get out of my bed and do some minimal exercise. But thankfully I got over that. Lesson is kids, even if you are a 10 in one area, it's no excuse to be a 5 in another.

[@jessielefey]

I never took it as "it's not excuse" so much as "it's not gonna fix everything". All his psychic power couldn't get Mob the girl. All the amazing power Saitama built doesn't help anything once he's accomplished his goal and doesn't have another. Being a genius didn't help me make friends, I had to learn and practice that. I can understand astrophysics, but it didn't help me figure out how to keep my house clean. When things come too easy, they aren't satisfying, but when everything comes too easy, you don't learn how to work and you're *bored*. It's why being gifted is as much a special need as being cognitively challenged. Mob is the best distillation of that I've ever seen in fiction. All the power in the world was functionally useless for the things he actually wanted to do, partially because what he wanted to do was have the satisfaction of working to overcome a challenge instead of having the problems just miraculously fix themselves for him. I think that's why he's becoming more comfortable with his powers. It *is* taking work and skill, trial and lots of error, to figure out what to do with them. It seems easy, until he accidentally almost blows up the world because he can't control it. Dismissing it made him just as miserable as the people who defined themselves by it. He's gotta integrate it, make it not-special. Just a part of who he is, like everyone else has special skills. No skill is better, all skills are important. Even his.

[@tricksterhuaun]

I always took more as being better at something doesn't make you better than other people because they know stuff you don't. People excel at different things but you're not better for excelling at one specific thing. There's also the idea of broadening your horizons and not letting one thing define you as a person because only a child do that.

[@uanime1]

@President Togekiss "To me the lesson in Mob Psycho is that you can't let something you are good at take control over your life and become the only thing that matters to you." The problem is that Mob Psycho doesn't do this. Even Mob is trying to get good at fitness because he thinks it'll make him more popular. So all it's doing is trying to convince people that they should consider something other than psychic powers as the most important thing, even when there are professions where their psychic powers would give them a major advantage.

[@uanime1]

@@jessielefey "partially because what he wanted to do was have the satisfaction of working to overcome a challenge instead of having the problems just miraculously fix themselves for him." Which is subverted by having him win all his fights without any effort. "It seems easy, until he accidentally almost blows up the world because he can't control it." Good thing he has psychic powers that can fix anything so that when he destroyed a school he didn't have to undergo any character growth about how dangerous his powers are.

[@Crabgar]

@@uanime1 he doesn't win fights without effort, sure some fights were easy, but in alot he gets seriously hurt, physically and emotionally. Like when he passed out from being strangled, when he couldn't inhale from being kneed in the stomach or almost died in the finale of S2. And he can't fix everything with psychic powers, that's the point. A building? sure. Trauma? People? No direction in life? nope. He and we already knew how dangerous he was, from literally the first scene of episode 1 No need to make a point out of it by focusing on the destroyed school.

[@GamerFromJump]

Considering how many of those isolated creatives and geniuses wind up cracking up and either self-destructing or doing something horrible, maybe Mob has a point.

[@severusfloki5778]

Hah

[@IMatchoNation]

The best way to find meaning is to buy stylish yet affordable Vincero watches. Duh.

[@DaBigBrozer]

Wisecrack philosophy...

[@instantregret7858]

Hey man, you gotta put food on the table somehow

[@005Turk]

HIT THAT SUBSCRIBE BUTTON.. it kinda spooked me how serious his face got at the end

[@leg912]

that was smooth sponsoring

[@SenpaiSamaKun]

Odd you guys didn't mention Mogami, which mirrors exactly the last few minutes of the video. He is someone who never got the goodwill of society and was just left to strive no matter the cost. Emphasizing the power of friends, goodwill, and togetherness is the main reason Mob can be whole himself.

[@mascotwithadinosaur9353]

Even without realising it, I think Mob influenced me the most as a person. Those around me tend to get surprised by the fact that I don't necessarily take pride in "being better". By "being better" I mean that people notice I tend to look deeper into things and such, but I know that being able to not overthink would be a nice trait to have that would benefit me, and is also a trait most of my family members posses. I think that before anyone is smart, tall, good, bad, man or woman or anything else, we're all born human. Besides, arrogance is tiring for both the one practicing it and the one having to listen to it, and I'm honestly too lazy for that.

[@comedyman4896]

Person: *picks nose* Philosipher: He is clearly doing this because he's terrified of death

[@isdel9474]

he wishes to have control over his own body -- complete dominion. discomfort in the nostril? pick that shit. show that discomfort who is who. you're the one in control over your body; your impulses; your own sensations.

[@jlupus8804]

If his nose isn't clean, he fears he won't be able to breath well and eventually suffocate.

[@A.S._Trunks]

@@jlupus8804 This, in turn, leads him to want to have complete control over others.

[@KraziShadowbear]

As much as this is to overanalyze something, this is pretty accurate to people in real life.

[@MM-ed7xz]

There is more complexity and intricacy in interactions with other conscious beings than there is with oneself. That doesn't make social interactions easy, but does make them worthwhile.

[@faragar1791]

About that last minute of the video. The thing is that some geniuses and eccentrics isolate themselves from society because they either have a hard time being accepted in society, or it's extremely difficult for them to conform in a society and accept certain social norms. Now, I personally think it's a good thing to find meaning in society. Humans are naturally social animals, so it would make sense that we would find meaning in a social group that we call society. However, I have a question about that. If brining geniuses and eccentrics into society would make society better, should these people adapt themselves so they can fit in society, or should the society adapt so that it can fit in the geniuses and eccentrics?

[@lyndiss.2017]

Personally, I think it's both and more, because sometimes it's the former, sometimes it's the latter, and sometimes it doesn't matter-for example, if the genius's eccentricity really doesn't impact anyone else in society, kinda like how my favorite colors don't matter to society in general; that sort. Personally, I would decide which approach by the broader consequences these "eccentricities" bring. Helpful ones, useful ones, inspiring ones, reasonable ones, and unharmful ones (this is my lowest bar) are okay or even great, so if the geniuses are introducing those sorts of ideas into society, I would actually be on board. Can't speak for how the geniuses themselves should think or act though, seeing I'm severely unqualified 😂. Just a Mediocre Mary here, haha!

[@smhsophie]

This is something I've struggled with my whole life, always feeling somewhat lonely because my thoughts and dreams were way off from all of my peers. Also, I would often be "ahead of the curve" adopting cultural trends before everyone else, leading me to go back and question my own actions before eventually becoming surprised that everyone adopts the same trend as me. It's a strange experience. I believe that there is a compromise, in that they must look for their place in the world, and accept their decisions and stop questioning them. Then, they can come to respect people who aren't quite as smart as them, and learn things from them. But it starts with finding a place where they are sure of themselves.

[@vojacked305]

Regarding to the comment, it's interesting that he's also called Mob.

[@losckasieou]

this comment is two years old, but I'm going to give my take (kinda long lol): geniuses and eccentrics is a weird term to describe people who are defined only by what they have achieved and done. typically a genius or eccentric or whatever other term you want to use is someone who just has a shitload of confidence in a specific area of themselves. This is a trait that is seen throughout all the antagonists in Mob Psycho, and you'll probably realize it about real-life people you consider a genius/eccentric. Yes, not all geniuses are self-confident, but they are all confident in themselves in one thing. Eccentrics might be confident in their oddity. World-renowned scientists are confident in their book knowledge. The "rest of society", as we're calling it, is probably a lot less confident, but more confident overall. Their experiences make them well rounded- a five on each side instead of a ten here and twos everywhere else, if that makes sense, because their experiences are not restricted by a confidence in one area. Society operates fine with similar people, and since "geniuses" or "eccentrics" are rare and different, they have trouble fitting in. However, you'll probably find that most geniuses are a ten in one area and still maintain a steady five in others, especially some of the more important ones, so they can fit in fine with society. For example, Mob may possess world-ending powers but he's also a genuinely kind and well-meaning guy- which is also because he lacks a focused confidence. He isn't confident on his powers getting him through life, so it's easier for him to find people, which then makes it so that he can go through and share the experiences of the common people. Thus, he fits in. So I think, in the end, society doesn't need a _genius_ or _eccentric_ who are defined by their focused confidence. The world of Mob Psycho would've functioned just fine without Teruki or Claw, or any of the extremely confident antagonists that were featured in the show. The world, however, probably wouldn't have functioned better without Mob, who focused on himself first to then try and better others. If you as a genius or eccentric (which seems like a glorified term now, considering that it seems like the only separation between Genius and Society is focused confidence) want to fit in, then you have to focus on yourself and start to value goals that, instead of casting you further away from society, will bring you closer. Sometimes it's an issue of ego/pride (think Suzuki and Ristu in his awakening arc, egotistical "geniuses)", other times it's an issue of simply not seeing another path (think Mob's ???% form, arguably an "eccentric"). Most of the time it's the former. TLDR: society doesn't need an egotistical or lost genius, it will operate fine without you. Therefore, to fit in, focus on yourself. But it's up to you if you want to keep living your isolated life or not.

[@Wol333]

Maybe the meaning was the friends we made along the way

[@leonbelmont4028]

lmao

[@lila7720]

@@leonbelmont4028 whats so funny about that?

[@leonbelmont4028]

@@lila7720 its funny because its a meme that people say when talking about a story about friendship or similar themes. so, r/whoosh

[@lila7720]

@@leonbelmont4028 ok

[@leonbelmont4028]

@@lila7720 that's right.now sit down.

[@CS-110]

Reigens growth arch was by far one of my favorite part of this season

[@WeabooMilk]

14:47 That ending never fails to make me cry. Came for the amazing animation, stayed for the lessons I could've used a long time ago.

[@dande3139]

Wisecrack - Philosophy brought to you by consumerism. I know you guys have to make money to survive... but the contrast makes me laugh every time. "Live a more meaningful! Buy a Vincero!"

[@mariojose1993]

I know right! However I'm still very grateful of having this content available. Maybe if they get enough patreons they can afford getting rid of the ads.

[@mattiasbrunzell8957]

Its a constant ironic fixture yep. I just blank out from the advertisments and focus om something else for 30 seconds.

[@NeoAstrisk]

Oh nooo! People have to make a living? These sellouts!

[@harryhoudini714]

@@NeoAstrisk you can make a living and still be a little more conscious about things like that. Billions of people make a living without resorting to stupid ads following "philosophical discussions" so what kind of an "excuse" is that? A Terrorist is also "making a living" by getting paid to blow people up.....any excuses for that Einstein?

[@NeoAstrisk]

@@harryhoudini714 How the fuck you gonna compare a terrorist killing people to an ad you goofy fuck?

[@android19willpwn]

Mob Psycho 100 2 is my favorite anime of all time. I've been in the game for a while and nothing has given me as many feelings as often as this show. For like the first 2/3 of the season basically every episode was evoking real, genuine emotion from me. It's amazing and everyone should watch it. The first season is really good too, don't get me wrong, but this season blows everything else out of the water.

[@budgetbajur]

*sees this vid* In the back of my head: CRYING MY LIFE, CRYING MY SIGHT, CRYING MY LIFE IN SUCH UNCOMMON PLACES

[@NoahFan114]

2:00 is when the content starts up again, just so you all know.

[@nibblesnarfer]

Absolutely no one: KZbin's translated subtitle : ".. Claw Commando Hajime allah al-qaeda toby" What in the effin' blaze, youtube.

[@NahuelPavano]

lol

[@HK47_115]

Guess you speaking too fast for the bot to catch up

[@Icameron259]

Finding meaning without society didn't work for me, and I would wager probably wouldn't work for the vast majority of people. Humans are naturally social creatures.

[@Kuudere_Fanboy]

Relationships with other people are more important then society.

[@egomaniac7230]

"You guys are making a huge mistake. Thinking you're special... You should realize that you're able to survive thanks to the help of others." This is what I'm going to say to an anti-masker or an anti-vaccer the next time I see one.

[@jonahromero7476]

*sees mob psycho 100 on wisecrack* Me: OOH! They made it just for me!

[@gaydolfhitler6310]

i was waiting for Rick and Morty to come up. didn't have to wait long

[@smhsophie]

Wholesome pupper 100

[@jordanloux3883]

Next time someone says 'we live in a society' I'm sending them a link to this video.

[@lyndiss.2017]

Yea. I get that we all resent society for something and society deserves at least some of our ire, but MP100's take is incredibly inspiring and thought-provoking in a different direction rather than just defeatist resentment and "nihilism lol". MP100 S1 was the turning point in my college years, man. I learned so much from it.

[@severusfloki5778]

Lyndis S. Though It’s sad that you even had to look for a meaning to your life in a cartoon.

[@jocelyn9744]

@@severusfloki5778 I think it's beautiful really, when a "cartoon" can inspire you to go as far as questionning and finding meaning in your life After all, this "cartoon" comes from the relentless efforts of many experienced people working together to deliver a message in a package of awesome animation, relatable characters, interesting and intriguing story More appreciation, less moping around

[@severusfloki5778]

They call me Baepsae It can be beautiful indeed, and it sure is useful. I really liked this video. I’m just intrigued by how @Lindis S. came to telling that "nihilism lol" is a wrong (bad and wrong differ) based on what she learned from a cartoon.

[@1mag1nat1vename]

I'm confident that this is a false dichotomy, because I remember my Dad lecturing me on this subject. He told me that people who were isolated but didn't have to work hard to survive (for instance: those in solitary confinement) reliably go crazy, and I have confirmed this for myself. He also told me about how people in collectivist societies tend to hold each other back in an effort to all conform to their shared expectations, together. He championed the idea that it's when people interact/cooperate only for mutual benefit and leave each other otherwise alone, they actually grow stronger together. I have seen this in environments that embrace healthy competition (where the losers aren't shamed, and the members of the group are encouraged to work together on various large projects, but they still have their own things going on). Also, the idea that a truly extraordinary person has an extraordinary crew (that you are judged by the company you keep) is very healthy, and it has the corollary: It is better to be alone than in bad company.

[@questallcaps6432]

society's that excessively award people who somewhat stand out, i.e. all capitalist societies, always ignore that they do so by standing on top of the people that are at the bottom and forcing them to stay there. You ignore that cus you happen to be on the right side of the system or have internalized the self-hate that the powerful try to instill in the working class. You should watch the show again and try to humble yourself, you'll be happier for it.

[@ridhvikgopal8912]

Thank you!! I’ve been waiting for your take on my favorite anime!

[@Scerttle]

“California is on Fire” Australia will do you one better “almost all the habitable land is on fire”.

[@Scerttle]

Also I think Mob is the perfect protagonist.

[@cobrakingofeart]

parts of california are in a chapparal biome. what do they expect?

[@Lucan47]

In Brazil, not only the Amazon is on fire but also our beaches are covered in oil while the government does nothing...

[@Scerttle]

Luciano Petersen that’s some scary shit, man 😔

[@cobrakingofeart]

@@Scerttle that's nothing. once in brazil; it, no joke, rained spiders. FUCKING SPIDERS!!!!!

[@camiloiribarren1450]

I love the breakdowns you do of many different anime series to tell us their message. Hope to see Shaman King, a series that has ghosts and shamans who integrate with them to fight in a tournament that defines the fate of the world, but the message is about forgiveness and redemption

[@dsetti7265]

Thanks for your videos

[@mncedisincube9669]

The real lesson is to find worth from within and be considerate to others

[@desmadness]

Love these videos! Have you guys watched Vinland Saga? It's a historical anime about the Viking era, and I think it has a lot of themes you might enjoy picking apart--fatherhood, finding hope in a hellish world, and more

[@VincoMalus]

Respectfully elegant analysis/&dissection🎥👑

[@TheKing-ve7lz]

I just finished watching this. Good timing

[@spookybells5099]

Amazing video!

[@felipehonoriobs]

mob psycho is some of the best content in the past years, specially season 2

[@TiefseeToaster]

Aw man this intro told me almost TO THE DAY when this video came out. Glad 2020 is over.

[@teathomas]

Most KZbinrs: Puts their sponsors at the end of the video Wisecrack: What if we did that, and also...

[@calcifur]

I thin km it depends on the society I dont see modern society as a community that works together but as a machine that grinds the weak to dust. If society itself is evil, is it not better to find meaning outside it?

[@emmaventura8778]

Mob Psycho 100 II kind of reminded me a bit of the Persona game series, because of how it also emphasized the importance of bonds over power and escape...

[@CyberSurferXD]

"Which way of defining meaning in life is the right way to go?" ...yeah, I'm gonna go out on a limb and say that the one that doesn't involve casually murdering people is probably the right call here~

[@freezepeach407]

Unfortunately, there will always be people who do not agree to that.

[@woodbridgesfinest1904]

gotta catch this show

[@R3dTi3nJ3ans]

Mob Pscyho has been on my watchlist for the longest time. Brb.

[@seannissen2509]

Best way to find meaning in life is with body improvement!

[@sharilshahed6106]

Guys, please cover the Golden Wit duo that are Attack on Titan (latest arc) and Vinland Saga as soon as possible. Former is a mindblower of newer perspective of this univeese, while the later is also a minefield of belief and honor related philosophies.

[@pm2881]

Great vid

[@mohdrashid6968]

Waiting for this since the first mob psycho video

[@poysona]

YOOOO THIS VIDEO WAS UPLOADED ON MY BIRTHDAY!!!! AND THIS IS MY FAVORITE ANIME!!!!!

[@yaumelepire6310]

Finding a place within society seems like the more peaceful option. If you’re happy from without and not hurting anyone, good for you too!

[@snowwonder9814]

Great video. I have to say, from personal experience, Mob is absolutely right, and isolating oneself from society and spurning it is not the way to go, especially because as evidenced by this show it often does hurt others. The coronavirus pandemic has made this more clear than ever with the downsides of isolation being seen in things like increased suicide. I have seen the downsides with my own mother. My mom, a middle-aged widow, was especially negatively effected and has started following conspiracies. They make her feel special and in control, and help her cope with loneliness, but it's having a negative effect on her and her four kids. My mom has become obsessed with being special, with telling herself she is too intelligent for friends and society, with being right, with putting down others for being dumb/selfish/etc. - she is lonely but spurns society. It's been rough to watch happen. She is not the same person, and she is a more unhappy person I think despite the fact that she says otherwise. And it's making her kids more unhappy. The conspiracies have led her to try restrict me and my siblings (all young adults) from doing things that normal people do to have healthy relationships in society (like she has tried to stop us hanging out with friends simply because they are vaccinated and be in public places where she thinks a lot of people are vaccinated). Arguing with her just causes her to double down on her conspiracies. Seeing this show take apart that mindset but at the same time show empathy for those with it and help them was really nice in the face of everything going on.

[@Oueenazolatigressgina]

That's rough mate

[@ilvanasgobero8096]

I'm not the best at giving advice and i dunno if you're still even having those problems, but instead of arguing with her you could try and nudge her in a better direction, maybe try and understand why she is feeling the way she does and have a civilized talk about it, it would take time and all but maybe try and convince her to seek professional help if you think it's necessary, again, i'm not very good at giving advice and also am a stranger on the internet, so yeah, do what you think is best.

[@jordanred3273]

Mob psycho is top tier! Thank you for showing love! ❤️

[@victor-loicgamache9548]

That's the power of friendship right here!

[@lockejawe4050]

0:07 Hey Wisecrack, Michael here...

[@28maitreyagupta21]

Do a philosophy of the haunting hour. Any five episodes.

[@jessemcbuckets7785]

Thanks for posting this I haven’t watched this shit yet but I saw mob psycho so I fw it

[@KevinThePengWIN]

"The most wholesome anime on TV" TRRRUUUEEEE!!!

[@geoffreywinn4031]

Cool video!

[@slwdncing1530]

6:21 Boy, do i got a story for you.

[@CountDVB]

That thing of sublime and feeling of overwhelminess is gonna play a part with that broccoli..

[@Thelnquisitor]

Mob is right but our worth comes from more then society.

[@zennou11]

I'm a fan of the concept of self-sufficiency, so I lean towards self-fulfillment. One's experience of others and the world around them should just be a garnish/spice/bonus, with the sufficient-for-survival (psychologically speaking) bulk of self-worth and meaning coming from within. If the desire to leave a mark on the world is merely a derivative of our desire to transcend death, then we should seek to overcome that extraneous/indirect desire and focus the true one (unattainable as it may be in the foreseeable future).

[@MrBern-ex3wq]

I would say a bit of both. Yes, you need others to make satisfying and fulfilling connections that fill your life with a sense of meaning that you brought upon it. But if you devote yourself to your interactions with others, and with society, and don't take who you are into consideration, you'll feel at best empty and at worst like you don't have an identity. And I say that out of personal experience. In short, you need others to form a sense of meaning, but remembering yourself and not forgetting who you want and choose to be is crucial. Otherwise you'll be nothing but the interactions you have with other people and your identity will have no substance.

[@VenomBurger]

As somebody born with Autism, I suffered a lot. I felt the desire to isolate myself and reject a society that made me feel alone. But it was only as I learnt to cope with myself, to feel comfortable with being alone, that I was able to grow. I adjusted and integrated into society, and forged strong bonds that I highly value. To Quote Reigen "If you want to make it to the top, you have to live in Society, that's Step 1!"

[@kellenscott5945]

the incredibly subtle movement of the eyes looking at the script made me unnecessarily mad.

[@screechgames1083]

Almost every single anime villain always looks like James wins I don’t know why

[@danielrice459]

What is the best way to find meaning in this world? a) from society to our place in it. b) from our selfs as we emerge into society. c) be like the jehovah's witnesses and see that society is beyond saving, letting it die to its' own demise, waiting for global warming to kill us all so the earth can move on from us humans. or d) this question is dumb and no anwser can suit. JFK said, "ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country." Uncle Ben said. "with great powers comes great responsiblities." Stan Lee remarks to a unexpecting Peter, "Well maybe one guy can make a diffrenece." I believe to understand one's existance can be a good and bad thing. Good because one sees they have agency out-side of a group, therefor are apart from that group. Specal as Mob is. However this leads to a moment where one's awarness glorfies the self as the most important aspect of life. This should act as a speed bump to actualization, but most stop there and do not probe for any deeper meaning. What should be considered is what comes after meaning is reconized and what signals in society drive us to ack with our power? Maybe family or career, or some other fasate of life that one can transend into. Society itself is an artificial network to deliever message and ideas to people who are aware of theirself. It will only ever have the power one give to it. A person is not society, but a person does have power. How much or little that power may be is irrelevant, the point is one will never be without vices. People should not find meaning in society, because one will never relate to it. But society will always seek to find its' idenity in those who act within it.

[@valdimer11]

"The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation. What is called resignation is confirmed desperation. From the desperate city you go into the desperate country, and have to console yourself with the bravery of minks and muskrats. A stereotyped but unconscious despair is concealed even under what are called the games and amusements of mankind. There is no play in them, for this comes after work. But it is a characteristic of wisdom not to do desperate things.."

[@masterclockwork4436]

Looks like the show's answer is through empathy.

[@LouistheDestroyer]

Hey youtube, I love Mob Psycho and watch/sub to Wisecrack. Why isn't this showing up anywhere in my recommended???

[@lostpopcorns]

good video, love the anime! also good choice with the sub>dub. many things that mob and reigen said stuck with me long after the show. the obvious choice would be to be part of society and give it your best. even when you think you don't need anyone else.

[@finnballew9729]

Please do Philosophy of Babylon!

[@kr1spness]

The philosophy behind this show is why I like shows like Hunter x Hunter and JoJo. If we're going to do over the top powers, let's have characters use them for their own motives, not to be a cliche hero. One Punch Man is the best argument for why we should have more shows that shy away from the morally good hero looking for a problem to fix, it's about as tired of a premise as Saitama is of his life. But I guess people still like MHA despite that.

[@Name-ul8es]

you should make a video about Angels Egg.

[@littlediamond4552]

Do a video on Griffin in Berserk using the same philosophy!

[@deLumren]

Ernest Becker was Pulitzer laureate, not Nobel. 5:00

[@tomsawyerpiper9412]

There are some who believe that evil can only be overcome by great men, but that is not what I believe. I have come to believe that it is small acts of simple kindness that keep the darkness at bay.

[@m.k.6669]

I saw Suzuki Toichiro in the thumbnail and did a little cheer.

[@sandlertato]

"most wholesome anime in television" he says. He obviously hasn't watched welcome to demon school iruma-kun

[@Mewseeker]

How about Kemono Friends? :D

[@anastasiastellar2658]

Haven't watch those anime I hope it's not low quality stuff that only hype because of fanservice

[@Mewseeker]

@@anastasiastellar2658 The first season of kemono Friends didn't had the budget for fanservice. XD In term of number of views, it managed to beat Madoka Magica and got people to visit view. In normal circumstance, it should have been a flop but the 10 person crew working on it made a miracle. The animation quality is low but the writing, music and that cliffhanger make it worth it.

[@anastasiastellar2658]

@@Mewseeker Good. I'm tired of boob-selling trash anime

[@severusfloki5778]

Terrific video, subject and content. Thank you.

[@tristragyopsie5464]

I have said this many times and never been taken serious, but the meaning of life is really simple. I'm being serious here. The meaning of life is to seek meaning. It can be collective or individual but it must be sought. without the search people become to hyper focused on ether the inner or the outer. And loose sight of not only meaning but self, they become ether toxic in stagnation or destructive in the rejection of others.

[@Spoeism]

I'm surprised Solipsism wasn't explored despite the examples given. And neither side is "Right" they're both essential for cause n' effect, regarding human progress. They work off each other. Work against each other. and sometimes they work together. The problem arises when one side loses sight of their role, assuming that only their role matters and begins to turn Totalitarian or parasitical, imposing their paradigm onto everyone else who they share existence with.

[@EdwardViaTomato]

it's weird that you're talking about a watch as the alternative way of telling the time... but I get how normal that is to many others.

[@francisemv1788]

good question

[@Merchantic]

I would love a video on The Philosophy of Ni No Kuni!

[@Gothead420]

We are *not* the only self-aware animals...elephants, dolphins, corvirds, apes: all self-aware. That's why they all literally _mourn_ their dead.

[@eastjm80]

I’m still in the add, and if it ends and it’s not Jared I’m gonna loose it.

[@kemosabi986]

We need a philosophy of the maxx!!!!!!

[@MrGenetoreve]

I think it is only possible to find meaning in life through society. While geniuses and eccentrics choose to be alone they are still fascinated by the inner workings of society. The rise and fall, the change for better or worse, and the conflict that arises through the interaction by humans. I believe that they choose to be observers of how things are initiated, how things are proceeding, and a person that deduces where humanity will end up as a consequence of the decisions made by the society.

[@steef4000000]

It's great that mob is the voice for being a good social and average human being. The only thing that makes it cringes is that those word only influences them because of the brute extraordinary powers of mob. Which always comes back to power without virtue is tyranny, but virtue without power wil never change anything (or something along that line, since I don't remember the full original quote).

[@megafiremario12volt]

This anime humbles you.

[@Osric24]

Well, we live in a society... But seriously, I think it's not so much society that creates meaning, but relationships. And definitely Mob seems to follow that idea to its fullest.

[@scroom1202]

Depends on the society. For a prime example, during Nazi Germany it was those who placed themselves outside societies systems that we immortalize as heros of that society.

[@kickasskeenan]

this watch add is so dope