Rethinking the Value of Humanity in Cinema
In recent times, a prevalent theme in cinema revolves around the concept of 'saving humanity,' often merging it with the mere act of protecting the human species. However, this interchanging of 'humanity' with 'human beings' is problematic. 'Humanity' encompasses a wider, more philosophical dimension than the biological category of human beings. It's crucial to distinguish between these terms, as their conflation might blur essential conceptual distinctions. From a pragmatic perspective, let's delve into this narrative.Consider the common narrative trope: a person at home confronted by a hostile intruder threatening their loved ones. This scenario typically doesn't allow for alternative outcomes like disarming or persuading the aggressor. It overlooks the nuanced moral distinction between passive witnessing and active participation in violence, whether in self-defense or in the defense of others. The underlying message often emphasizes protection - usually of one's immediate family or property, echoing pseudo-liberal ideologies. Intriguingly, the narrative often centers around a male figure defending his family, overlooking other real-life dynamics like children protecting their mothers.
Setting aside these traditional narratives, the focus remains on protecting those dear to us, those with whom we share our lives.
However, current films suggest an extension of this protective instinct to include all human beings, justified not by shared humanity but by the need to preserve the human species as a biological category. The rationale behind this expansive protection remains largely unexplained.
Let's simplify this with a thought experiment. Imagine you have a beloved dog and a reprehensible neighbor or an abusive boss. Now, recall the cinema trope where a character must choose between two loved ones in a life-or-death situation. If posed with the choice between saving your loyal dog or the harmful individual, who would you choose? The human or the dog?
Films often depict the hero saving humanity, typically by eliminating the antagonist. Yet, they seldom explore the scenario where the only surviving humans are the 'villains.' In a real-life situation, facing a concrete and practical decision, would we be inclined to save the human species if it meant preserving only its most malicious members?
In essence, these narratives force us to reconsider our understanding of what it means to 'save humanity.' Is it about protecting the human species as a biological category, or is there a deeper, more philosophical value to the concept of humanity that we are missing in these depictions?