Is Miyazaki conservative? This is a question that has sparked much debate among film enthusiasts and critics alike. While it is important to note that labeling someone as “conservative” can be subjective and open to interpretation, there are certainly elements in Hayao Miyazaki’s films that could be seen as aligning with conservative values.
From his earliest films such as Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind to his more recent work like The Wind Rises, Miyazaki has consistently portrayed a deep appreciation for the beauty and wonders of the natural world. His films often depict lush landscapes, intricate ecosystems, and the importance of living in harmony with nature. This emphasis on the preservation of the environment can be seen as a conservative value, as conservatives generally prioritize the conservation of natural resources and advocate for responsible stewardship of the Earth.
In addition to his love for nature, Miyazaki frequently explores themes of tradition, family, and community in his films. He often presents strong, multi-generational families that value loyalty, respect, and the passing down of cultural traditions. These values are often associated with conservative ideals, as conservatives tend to emphasize the importance of family and the preservation of long-standing social and cultural norms.
Furthermore, Miyazaki’s films often feature strong, independent protagonists who are driven by a sense of duty and responsibility. These characters embody virtues such as courage, integrity, and selflessness, which are values often associated with conservative ethics. Miyazaki’s emphasis on personal responsibility and the importance of doing what is right aligns with conservative notions of individual accountability and moral principles.
It is also worth noting that Miyazaki has been critical of certain aspects of modern society, particularly the negative effects of industrialization and consumerism. He has expressed concerns about the loss of traditional craftsmanship and the detrimental impact of technology on human relationships. These critiques of modernity resonate with conservative critiques of societal and cultural decay, as conservatives often advocate for the preservation of time-honored values and practices.
However, it is important to acknowledge that Miyazaki’s conservatism, if we can even label it as such, is not aligned with any specific political ideology or party. His focus on the preservation of nature, tradition, and personal virtues does not necessarily translate into support for conservative economic or social policies. It is a more nuanced and personal conservatism that emerges from his own experiences and observations of the world.
While it is not accurate to classify Miyazaki as a strictly conservative filmmaker, there are aspects of his work that align with conservative values. His deep appreciation for nature, his emphasis on tradition and family, and his critique of certain aspects of modern society all resonate with conservative perspectives. However, it is important to approach this interpretation with nuance and recognize that Miyazaki’s conservatism is a unique and personal vision rather than a strict adherence to any particular political ideology.