|
An Exploration of the Possibility of Philosophical Thinking through Animation Utilizing Noël Carroll’s Perspective on Live-Action
|
Mohsen Karami *   , Faeze Salari |
| IRIB University |
|
|
Abstract: (86 Views) |
This study explores the potential of philosophical thinking through animation and argues that animation, beyond its traditional role as a medium of entertainment, can serve as an effective tool for philosophical inquiry. Drawing upon Noël Carroll’s theories regarding philosophy through live-action films, the paper examines three primary methods for engaging in philosophical discourse via animation: “thought experiments,” “phenomenological discourse,” and “defamiliarization.” In the first section, animations such as WALL-E, Princess Mononoke, and Mary and Max are analyzed to demonstrate how these works, by crafting complex and thought-provoking scenarios, function as “thought experiments.” These experiments, akin to classical philosophical examples, refrain from offering explicit answers and instead invite viewers to reflect on fundamental questions such as environmental ethics, identity, and social justice. The second section investigates the “phenomenological discourse” inherent in animations. Through distinctive visual designs and narratives that mirror lived experiences, works like Soul and Toy Story 3 facilitate philosophical reflection on concepts such as time, life, and the meaning of existence. Finally, the notion of “defamiliarization” is analyzed as another mechanism of philosophical engagement in animations. Animations like Spirited Away and Paprika challenge conventional assumptions about reality, identity, and technology, prompting audiences to reconsider their preconceived notions of everyday life. The findings of this research reveal that animation can operate as an independent medium for philosophical inquiry. By leveraging creative methods unique to this art form, animation offers fresh capacities for articulating, analyzing, and expanding philosophical concepts. Consequently, animation emerges as an interdisciplinary platform capable of playing a pivotal role in advancing contemporary philosophy.
|
|
| Keywords: Animation, Defamiliarization, Live-action, Noël Carroll, Phenomenological Address, Philosophizing, Thought Experiment. |
|
|
Full-Text [PDF 683 kb]
(35 Downloads)
|
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2025/01/18 | Accepted: 2025/05/24
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Send email to the article author |
|
|
|
| Add your comments about this article |
|
|
|
