wild
26.05.02, 21:38
Films on Liberty and the State...
www.mises.org/film.asp
Star Wars (1977, 1980, 1983, 1999, 2002, 2005)
The ambitious Star Wars films tell of the rise, fall into evil & ultimate
redemption of Anakin Skywalker through his son Luke. Set against the decline of
the Old Republic into an evil Galactic Empire and the rebellion against that
Empire, this tale has profound relevance for our time. Here's the top reasons
why the Star Wars saga, in addition to being an epic action-packed adventure is
a great pro-liberty tale:
The films claim to be pro-liberty! From the scrolling-off-into-the-distance
intro text: "...restore freedom to the galaxy" (Episode IV), "a group of
freedom fighters led by Luke Skywalker..." (Episode V), "the small band of
rebels struggling to restore freedom to the galaxy" (Episode VI).
The theme of the Republic declining into an evil empire is an ancient
libertarian theme going back to Cato's resistance to the onset of empire in
Rome. The portrayal of the bureaucratic/military empire vs. the "ragtag"
people's resistance is right on target.
"War does not make one great." (Yoda)
"A Jedi uses the Force for knowledge and defense. Never for attack." (Yoda) How
many other movies can you think of that have such a clear presentation of the
libertarian doctrine on the use of force?
In the grand old Anglo-American tradition of continuing to provide goods even
when the government stupidly gets in the way, we have the heroic smuggler Han
Solo who specializes in outfoxing the Empire to do business. And don't forget
that Lando Calrissian is originally running a black market mining operation
when he is introduced.
No conscription for these freedom fighters! When the valuable pilot Han Solo
plans to leave the Rebellion his decision is respected: "He's got to follow his
own path, no one can choose it for him." (Leia)
Empire, accurately, is portrayed as a mass murderer in the destruction of the
peaceful planet of Alderan and everyone on it. As a symbol to represent this
past century of the killer State, I propose the dreaded Death Star.
That two generations have grown up with these films teaching them to hate
the "Empire" and it's plans to "bring order to the galaxy" bodes well for our
future.
See these reviews of Episode I, IV, V, and VI. Also, on Mises.org, see Mark
Thornton's review.