What are your criticisms of Evangelion?

Postmodernism, in general, is seen by quite a few experts as being somewhat of a cancer, and self-defeating by definition. All of the major points Eva brings up to argue for postmodern existentialism are things that can be easily rebuffed.

Eva says: “Your self-image is only determined by your own mind.”

I would argue: Yes, but this is caused by your objectively good and bad choices in reality.

Eva says: “You cannot know an objective reality, for the mind imprisons you.”

I would argue: However, objective reality still exists, and not seeking to know it is self-deception.

Eva says: “All that we know to be is only personal perspective.”

I would argue: This, in itself, is an absolute which must be proven, so it’s an idiotic paradox.

Eva says: “There are as many truths as there are people.”

I would argue: There are as many beliefs as there are people. Some may be false, while others true, and pursuit of answers is preferable to foolish belief in contradictory truths ‘both being true.’

Eva says: “Your truth defines who you are.”

I would argue: Your beliefs define who you are. If they are false or unhealthy, your life will follow suit, even if the self-deception is a positive one.

Eva says: “Your truth can change who you are, and does so constantly.”

I would argue: Except for the use of the word ‘truth,’ which should be associated with an objective reality and not a subjective one, there’s no argument here.

Eva says: “Therefore, come to terms with your perception, and reality will fall into place accordingly.”

I would argue: No, seek out whether or not your perception lines up with definable reality, and then you can know the truth, which by basic logic, can only be one entity. A cannot equal B. Seek B.

The fact that so much of Evangelion revolves around these ideals is what causes the show to fall apart, in my eyes. These beliefs simply do not hold water in the context of the gritty, militaristic worldview that Eva takes place in.

/r/evangelion Thread Parent