@UnLunDun i wish i quadruple-checked my post because it is very vague and generalizes both eastern and western thought. Much to my dismay... i think my generalization of both is wrong.
Modern philosophy (at least in America) is very analytical in the sense that they focus on the function of concepts and ideas (think Dewey’s instrumentalism). Everything has a use (function) towards the betterment of humans/society. It should be that way, or so the argument goes. And from that (as a side note) morals/ethics would improve as we understand ourselves and the world better (through science, psychology, knowledge, etc). Morals in academic philosophy is often not the focus, but in politics i can see how the masses see it as important.
To bring it back, i still stand by this manga being therapeutic in the sense that it “wakes” the students up from their prejudices and bias. To bring it more closer to what i claimed, the author uses these nuggets of truth to “help” students improve themselves, which in turn helps the class improve as a whole... see the relation to instrumentalism?
Also of note, Confucianism makes a similar argument in that people better themselves because of the rulers. They have a role and it’s through ritual, virtues, and tradition of those in power that trickles down to the masses and keeps the society healthy/flourishing. The difference is how to approach the betterment of society (eastern == ritual, western == principles).
I cannot stressed how much im generalizing both thoughts. My critique of the authors attempts of ethics is, i believe, spot on. But to explain why would mean pulling out my old books and notebooks on eastern thought (i actually pulled my old ‘Classic Asian Philosophy’ book to see whether i was right about Confucianism, I immediately corrected the massive mistake I was about to post). I feel somewhat confident in what i wrote, and i havent read marcus aurelius but ill read any nuggets of truth you’re willing to share. Im questioning my “nuggets of truth” already 😦
