Beyond its captivating narratives and stunning visuals, Japanese anime offers audiences worldwide... more Beyond its captivating narratives and stunning visuals, Japanese anime offers audiences worldwide a unique window into Japan’s rich history, culture, philosophy and values. Within this vast and diverse universe, there exists a recurring and multifaceted thematic exploration — theodicy and the philosophy of ‘evil’. This study aims to comprehensively deconstruct and examine the portrayal of ‘evil’ in Japanese anime emphasizing its substantial relevance within the broader discourse of Japan's soft power. Characters’ behaviors, actions, curses, lability, suffering, natural disasters, wars, natural humanity, monsters are presented in a way that prompts viewers to question the true nature of evil, if there is any. Fundamental to this study is the notion that 'evil' in anime is not an absolute, fixed concept, but rather an ephemeral perspective. Moreover, sometimes anime delves into the unconventional portrayal of the supreme beings as evil, challenging traditional dichotomies of g(o)od and (d)evil, which from a certain reality-level do not exist anymore. In anime, the only things that exist are will and power, the way that they are used being a matter of perspective. What is the systematic cycle of evil in anime and how will it affect the next generation’s mentality.
Keywords: cycle of evil in Japanese anime, God as power and will, non-dichotomous concept of evil, postmodernism, deconstructionism, Vos Viewer
Jurnalul Libertății de Conștiință/ Journal for Freedom of Conscience, 2023
Why to use Anime while Teaching People with ADHD: between Freedom and Right. The field of special... more Why to use Anime while Teaching People with ADHD: between Freedom and Right. The field of special pedagogy has received increased global attention in recent years. This resulted in the development of a variety of schooling (or non-schooling) and of teaching methods that are tailored to the needs of non-neurotypical individuals. Regardless of whether or not they wish to be "healed", their needs require special consideration. This study aims to determine if incorporating anime into teaching methods would benefit individuals with ADHD. In this article, we will consider the desires of people with ADHD, the functioning of their brains, the effect of prescribed medications, as well as the impact of video and the need for it in relation to contemporary educational models and methods. In support of this, three short surveys conducted at the onset of the pandemic will be presented, along with anime recommendations for each education field. Do teachers and professors have the freedom to teach as they wish, the right to use what methods they want. or the responsibility to find and choose the best educational methods for their students? Do the neurodiverse individuals have the freedom to discontinue their education or the right to receive a proper education? Which prevails?
The primary objective of this article is to facilitate individuals who are experiencing distress ... more The primary objective of this article is to facilitate individuals who are experiencing distress to develop a more positive perspective on the concept of death. This perception can potentially assist them in coping with the emotional and psychological challenges associated with this inevitable phenomenon. It is worth noting that within the context of Orthodox Christian tradition, death is regarded as a ceremonial event characterised by a state graceful happiness. In order to comprehend this concept, it is necessary to commence by elucidating the prelapsarian existence, which bears resemblance to the post-apocalyptic state following the Day of Judgement. Next, we will discuss the concept of Fall and its repercussions on human existence, specifically the earthly life, which is immersed in a state of "autism". The mortal existence endeavours to confront its inherent finitude, and it is of interest to observe the strategies it employs in this pursuit. The cessation of bodily functions represents a transition towards a more elevated state of being. This discussion will explore the significance of death, the various perspectives held by individuals regarding death, and the concept of life-giving death. Additionally, we will examine the role of human ceremonies in highlighting the importance of the human experience.
Literature’s qualities can be highlighted by combining it with other forms of art. Manga, which i... more Literature’s qualities can be highlighted by combining it with other forms of art. Manga, which is a Japanese traditional literary genre that involves visual art, has gained worldwide popularity in the last few decades. Subsequently, it was adapted into anime. This study explores the legitimacy of manga in literature, its global influence among notable figures such as prime ministers or presidents, and the zenith it attained in anime, which is a universal language. Are manga and anime universal solely due to their graphics and stories? Or is it rather because of their ability to connect people to the sacred? Is image universal? If so, what kind of image? Static one? Moving one? Which, manga or anime, can rather be considered universal? What does the future hold for literature and its various adaptations?
Japan, as a global soft power, conquers the world through the wise philosophy and mesmerizing art... more Japan, as a global soft power, conquers the world through the wise philosophy and mesmerizing art style that it combines in anime, gaining a growing number of fans from all over the world and of all ages. The effect of Japanese culture on the mentality of the young generation is becoming easier to notice. The cultural encounters that we have to face in a global era are an exciting challenge that we must understand and deal with. This article aims to discuss a future perspective for research in interreligious dialogue, based on popular culture. Why should we study anime and what kind of link can exist between it and interreligious dialogue? How does anime, as a global modern heritage, teach us to encounter interreligiousity?
The anime phenomenon conquers the world through the wise philosophy and mesmerizing art style tha... more The anime phenomenon conquers the world through the wise philosophy and mesmerizing art style that it combines, gaining a growing number of fans from all over the world and of all ages. The effect of anime on the mentality of fans is becoming easier to notice. Religious truths are presented extremely relatively and diverse in anime, and this causes, over time, a change in the mentality of societies. This article discusses and exemplifies how religious relativization is influenced and sustained by anime in the post-truth era. To reinforce the ideas exposed, there are presented interviews with anime fans from several countries, whose answers are interpreted functionally and framed theoretically. How does such a media product affect religions, since its fandom has grown? Is there any way that this relativization sustained by anime helps religion and the world as a whole? (What) is the press reporting on these things?
Anthropology of communication: God, Science and Cosmic Conflict. Proceedings of the 6th International Conference, edited by Adrian-Petre Popescu, Alina-Geanina Ionescu, Liliana-Georgeta Popescu, Sibiu, Astra Museum, 2022
In today's multicultural world, cultural perceptions of different religions are a contentious iss... more In today's multicultural world, cultural perceptions of different religions are a contentious issue. Transcultural media products such as anime emphasize these topics as well, primarily exemplifying how Japan used to relate to Christians when they first arrived in Japan, questioning the emperor's divine authority. This paper discusses the Christian themes found in Naruto, such as ceremonies, crosses, nuns, icons, statues, characters’ typology, and so on. Each one is explained in the context of anime, Christian culture, and strengthened by pictures. I consider important to see how Naruto, one of the longest and best sold animes ever, presents Christians and why does it present them this way. What kind of attitude does Japan promote through anime towards Christianity nowadays? Is it the same with their attitude toward its attendees?
In book: Literary Discourse Today. Dialogue and Multiculturalism (conference proceedings), edited by Iulian Boldea, Cornel Sigmirean, Dumitru-Mircea BudaPublisher: Arhipelag XXI Press
Interreligious communication is a widely discussed topic. However, determining the topics to be a... more Interreligious communication is a widely discussed topic. However, determining the topics to be addressed in order to achieve interreligious harmony remains difficult. Based on the analysis of genderspecific discourse types, this paper aims to discuss a future topic to be considered for interreligious dialogue research. To determine if this concept can be implemented, it is tested (analysed) in a fictional universe that is influencing the consciousness of global fandom for over 20 years, namely the Narutian universe. Why should we investigate the phenomenon of anime, and what relationship can it have with interreligious dialogue and different types of discourse? How does anime, as a modern world heritage, teach us to communicate interreligiously?
This millennium is increasingly relativizing religion. Thus, there are now religions based on fil... more This millennium is increasingly relativizing religion. Thus, there are now religions based on films (The Jedi Church) and books (Terasem). It appears that even cartoons are now suspected of having a religious nature. This study questions the existence of a religion based on the animated series "My Little Pony" and whether the series is satanic because it promotes unicorns, which some Christian parents view as demonic incarnations in the Bible. Although it addresses an exotic topic, it responds to a contemporary issue that influences how Christians function in society, thereby preventing unjustified radicalization. Does this show's fandom really have the required characteristics to be a religion? And if it would, are the characters really demonic? How are unicorns actually depicted within the Bible?
In book: Anthropology of Communication: Knowledge, Earth and Cosmic Wisdom (Proceedings of the 5th international conference) edited by Adrian-Petre Popescu, Alina-Geanina Ionescu, Liliana Popescu, Publisher: Astra Museum, 2021
This article aims to present the genesis of the shinobi world in Naruto and its mystical connotat... more This article aims to present the genesis of the shinobi world in Naruto and its mystical connotations. It is shown that Kaguya's story, the divine fruit and the bijuu are connected with spiritual wisdom from world religions compiled into a very creative and beautiful new tale. Naruto is an anime with a lot of spiritual and mythological symbols taken from cultures all over the world, so it should come to light for religion specialists nowadays.
The mystery of woman and her purpose is a topic much discussed by world religions. However, it se... more The mystery of woman and her purpose is a topic much discussed by world religions. However, it seems that women cannot find fulfillment in the marginal role that they are informed is recommended to them. But what is the role that the Orthodox Church actually considers women to have in the world? For fear of not reaching the ordination of women, Orthodox theologians have increasingly stopped discussing women, until recently. Orthodox women did not ask for ordination, they do not need it, nor do they want it. However, from here to considering that the only, or the most important role of the woman on earth is to give birth, is a long way. This article recalls and argues for the role of woman as the empress of silence, which transfigurates everything.
This article aims to address the model of repentance offered by the main character of the anime R... more This article aims to address the model of repentance offered by the main character of the anime Rurouni Kenshin. In order to highlight the basic concept exposed in this anime as clearly as possible, elements from the Samurai Code or the history of the Christianization of Japan by the Russians are also presented. The story of Himura Kenshin recounts the events in the life of an orphaned samurai who turns from a revolutionary to a great protector of life, exemplifying the dignity of repentance.
The purpose of this article is to discuss the sacredness of water and its relationship with life,... more The purpose of this article is to discuss the sacredness of water and its relationship with life, death, and blood in a multi-religious and, implicitly, interdenominational Christian context. The role of holy water in purifying, regenerating, and fertilizing as well as enlightening the rest of creation, has been accepted by most religions and Christian denominations, with minor variations, and it is also found in ancient philosophers. In the current context, the importance of water and its purifying role must be brought back into discussion by world religions.
In book: Anthropology of communication: God, Science and Cosmic Conflict. Proceedings of the 6th International Conference, edited by Adrian-Petre Popescu, Alina-Geanina Ionescu, Liliana-Georgeta Popescu.Publisher: Astra Museum, Sibiu, 2022
This article aims to present the opportunity to integrate Japanese animations into the religious ... more This article aims to present the opportunity to integrate Japanese animations into the religious mission. To support this, two surveys are presented: one, regarding the universality of the Naruto anime with 700 answers and the other, about anime as a religion, with 5,900 responses. Topics such as religion in anime, anime in religion, and anime religion are approached. In this study, is presented the marvellous world of anime, which should become an area of interest for theologians worldwide.
Beyond its captivating narratives and stunning visuals, Japanese anime offers audiences worldwide... more Beyond its captivating narratives and stunning visuals, Japanese anime offers audiences worldwide a unique window into Japan’s rich history, culture, philosophy and values. Within this vast and diverse universe, there exists a recurring and multifaceted thematic exploration — theodicy and the philosophy of ‘evil’. This study aims to comprehensively deconstruct and examine the portrayal of ‘evil’ in Japanese anime emphasizing its substantial relevance within the broader discourse of Japan's soft power. Characters’ behaviors, actions, curses, lability, suffering, natural disasters, wars, natural humanity, monsters are presented in a way that prompts viewers to question the true nature of evil, if there is any. Fundamental to this study is the notion that 'evil' in anime is not an absolute, fixed concept, but rather an ephemeral perspective. Moreover, sometimes anime delves into the unconventional portrayal of the supreme beings as evil, challenging traditional dichotomies of g(o)od and (d)evil, which from a certain reality-level do not exist anymore. In anime, the only things that exist are will and power, the way that they are used being a matter of perspective. What is the systematic cycle of evil in anime and how will it affect the next generation’s mentality.
Keywords: cycle of evil in Japanese anime, God as power and will, non-dichotomous concept of evil, postmodernism, deconstructionism, Vos Viewer
Jurnalul Libertății de Conștiință/ Journal for Freedom of Conscience, 2023
Why to use Anime while Teaching People with ADHD: between Freedom and Right. The field of special... more Why to use Anime while Teaching People with ADHD: between Freedom and Right. The field of special pedagogy has received increased global attention in recent years. This resulted in the development of a variety of schooling (or non-schooling) and of teaching methods that are tailored to the needs of non-neurotypical individuals. Regardless of whether or not they wish to be "healed", their needs require special consideration. This study aims to determine if incorporating anime into teaching methods would benefit individuals with ADHD. In this article, we will consider the desires of people with ADHD, the functioning of their brains, the effect of prescribed medications, as well as the impact of video and the need for it in relation to contemporary educational models and methods. In support of this, three short surveys conducted at the onset of the pandemic will be presented, along with anime recommendations for each education field. Do teachers and professors have the freedom to teach as they wish, the right to use what methods they want. or the responsibility to find and choose the best educational methods for their students? Do the neurodiverse individuals have the freedom to discontinue their education or the right to receive a proper education? Which prevails?
The primary objective of this article is to facilitate individuals who are experiencing distress ... more The primary objective of this article is to facilitate individuals who are experiencing distress to develop a more positive perspective on the concept of death. This perception can potentially assist them in coping with the emotional and psychological challenges associated with this inevitable phenomenon. It is worth noting that within the context of Orthodox Christian tradition, death is regarded as a ceremonial event characterised by a state graceful happiness. In order to comprehend this concept, it is necessary to commence by elucidating the prelapsarian existence, which bears resemblance to the post-apocalyptic state following the Day of Judgement. Next, we will discuss the concept of Fall and its repercussions on human existence, specifically the earthly life, which is immersed in a state of "autism". The mortal existence endeavours to confront its inherent finitude, and it is of interest to observe the strategies it employs in this pursuit. The cessation of bodily functions represents a transition towards a more elevated state of being. This discussion will explore the significance of death, the various perspectives held by individuals regarding death, and the concept of life-giving death. Additionally, we will examine the role of human ceremonies in highlighting the importance of the human experience.
Literature’s qualities can be highlighted by combining it with other forms of art. Manga, which i... more Literature’s qualities can be highlighted by combining it with other forms of art. Manga, which is a Japanese traditional literary genre that involves visual art, has gained worldwide popularity in the last few decades. Subsequently, it was adapted into anime. This study explores the legitimacy of manga in literature, its global influence among notable figures such as prime ministers or presidents, and the zenith it attained in anime, which is a universal language. Are manga and anime universal solely due to their graphics and stories? Or is it rather because of their ability to connect people to the sacred? Is image universal? If so, what kind of image? Static one? Moving one? Which, manga or anime, can rather be considered universal? What does the future hold for literature and its various adaptations?
Japan, as a global soft power, conquers the world through the wise philosophy and mesmerizing art... more Japan, as a global soft power, conquers the world through the wise philosophy and mesmerizing art style that it combines in anime, gaining a growing number of fans from all over the world and of all ages. The effect of Japanese culture on the mentality of the young generation is becoming easier to notice. The cultural encounters that we have to face in a global era are an exciting challenge that we must understand and deal with. This article aims to discuss a future perspective for research in interreligious dialogue, based on popular culture. Why should we study anime and what kind of link can exist between it and interreligious dialogue? How does anime, as a global modern heritage, teach us to encounter interreligiousity?
The anime phenomenon conquers the world through the wise philosophy and mesmerizing art style tha... more The anime phenomenon conquers the world through the wise philosophy and mesmerizing art style that it combines, gaining a growing number of fans from all over the world and of all ages. The effect of anime on the mentality of fans is becoming easier to notice. Religious truths are presented extremely relatively and diverse in anime, and this causes, over time, a change in the mentality of societies. This article discusses and exemplifies how religious relativization is influenced and sustained by anime in the post-truth era. To reinforce the ideas exposed, there are presented interviews with anime fans from several countries, whose answers are interpreted functionally and framed theoretically. How does such a media product affect religions, since its fandom has grown? Is there any way that this relativization sustained by anime helps religion and the world as a whole? (What) is the press reporting on these things?
Anthropology of communication: God, Science and Cosmic Conflict. Proceedings of the 6th International Conference, edited by Adrian-Petre Popescu, Alina-Geanina Ionescu, Liliana-Georgeta Popescu, Sibiu, Astra Museum, 2022
In today's multicultural world, cultural perceptions of different religions are a contentious iss... more In today's multicultural world, cultural perceptions of different religions are a contentious issue. Transcultural media products such as anime emphasize these topics as well, primarily exemplifying how Japan used to relate to Christians when they first arrived in Japan, questioning the emperor's divine authority. This paper discusses the Christian themes found in Naruto, such as ceremonies, crosses, nuns, icons, statues, characters’ typology, and so on. Each one is explained in the context of anime, Christian culture, and strengthened by pictures. I consider important to see how Naruto, one of the longest and best sold animes ever, presents Christians and why does it present them this way. What kind of attitude does Japan promote through anime towards Christianity nowadays? Is it the same with their attitude toward its attendees?
In book: Literary Discourse Today. Dialogue and Multiculturalism (conference proceedings), edited by Iulian Boldea, Cornel Sigmirean, Dumitru-Mircea BudaPublisher: Arhipelag XXI Press
Interreligious communication is a widely discussed topic. However, determining the topics to be a... more Interreligious communication is a widely discussed topic. However, determining the topics to be addressed in order to achieve interreligious harmony remains difficult. Based on the analysis of genderspecific discourse types, this paper aims to discuss a future topic to be considered for interreligious dialogue research. To determine if this concept can be implemented, it is tested (analysed) in a fictional universe that is influencing the consciousness of global fandom for over 20 years, namely the Narutian universe. Why should we investigate the phenomenon of anime, and what relationship can it have with interreligious dialogue and different types of discourse? How does anime, as a modern world heritage, teach us to communicate interreligiously?
This millennium is increasingly relativizing religion. Thus, there are now religions based on fil... more This millennium is increasingly relativizing religion. Thus, there are now religions based on films (The Jedi Church) and books (Terasem). It appears that even cartoons are now suspected of having a religious nature. This study questions the existence of a religion based on the animated series "My Little Pony" and whether the series is satanic because it promotes unicorns, which some Christian parents view as demonic incarnations in the Bible. Although it addresses an exotic topic, it responds to a contemporary issue that influences how Christians function in society, thereby preventing unjustified radicalization. Does this show's fandom really have the required characteristics to be a religion? And if it would, are the characters really demonic? How are unicorns actually depicted within the Bible?
In book: Anthropology of Communication: Knowledge, Earth and Cosmic Wisdom (Proceedings of the 5th international conference) edited by Adrian-Petre Popescu, Alina-Geanina Ionescu, Liliana Popescu, Publisher: Astra Museum, 2021
This article aims to present the genesis of the shinobi world in Naruto and its mystical connotat... more This article aims to present the genesis of the shinobi world in Naruto and its mystical connotations. It is shown that Kaguya's story, the divine fruit and the bijuu are connected with spiritual wisdom from world religions compiled into a very creative and beautiful new tale. Naruto is an anime with a lot of spiritual and mythological symbols taken from cultures all over the world, so it should come to light for religion specialists nowadays.
The mystery of woman and her purpose is a topic much discussed by world religions. However, it se... more The mystery of woman and her purpose is a topic much discussed by world religions. However, it seems that women cannot find fulfillment in the marginal role that they are informed is recommended to them. But what is the role that the Orthodox Church actually considers women to have in the world? For fear of not reaching the ordination of women, Orthodox theologians have increasingly stopped discussing women, until recently. Orthodox women did not ask for ordination, they do not need it, nor do they want it. However, from here to considering that the only, or the most important role of the woman on earth is to give birth, is a long way. This article recalls and argues for the role of woman as the empress of silence, which transfigurates everything.
This article aims to address the model of repentance offered by the main character of the anime R... more This article aims to address the model of repentance offered by the main character of the anime Rurouni Kenshin. In order to highlight the basic concept exposed in this anime as clearly as possible, elements from the Samurai Code or the history of the Christianization of Japan by the Russians are also presented. The story of Himura Kenshin recounts the events in the life of an orphaned samurai who turns from a revolutionary to a great protector of life, exemplifying the dignity of repentance.
The purpose of this article is to discuss the sacredness of water and its relationship with life,... more The purpose of this article is to discuss the sacredness of water and its relationship with life, death, and blood in a multi-religious and, implicitly, interdenominational Christian context. The role of holy water in purifying, regenerating, and fertilizing as well as enlightening the rest of creation, has been accepted by most religions and Christian denominations, with minor variations, and it is also found in ancient philosophers. In the current context, the importance of water and its purifying role must be brought back into discussion by world religions.
In book: Anthropology of communication: God, Science and Cosmic Conflict. Proceedings of the 6th International Conference, edited by Adrian-Petre Popescu, Alina-Geanina Ionescu, Liliana-Georgeta Popescu.Publisher: Astra Museum, Sibiu, 2022
This article aims to present the opportunity to integrate Japanese animations into the religious ... more This article aims to present the opportunity to integrate Japanese animations into the religious mission. To support this, two surveys are presented: one, regarding the universality of the Naruto anime with 700 answers and the other, about anime as a religion, with 5,900 responses. Topics such as religion in anime, anime in religion, and anime religion are approached. In this study, is presented the marvellous world of anime, which should become an area of interest for theologians worldwide.
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Papers by Valentina-Andrada Minea
Keywords: cycle of evil in Japanese anime, God as power and will, non-dichotomous concept of evil, postmodernism, deconstructionism, Vos Viewer
Keywords: cycle of evil in Japanese anime, God as power and will, non-dichotomous concept of evil, postmodernism, deconstructionism, Vos Viewer