BY HERMAN M. LAGON
WHEN Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi in “The New Hope” advises, “Your eyes can deceive you; don’t trust them,” he stresses here the importance of healthy skepticism, a skills where you question initial perceptions and challenging our reality by asking for more concrete evidences and not just accept things hook, line, and sinker. This wise mix of philosophical insight and engaging storytelling in Star Wars uniquely facilitates the exploration of complex ideas relatable to an audience of any generation. In the same note, Yoda’s “Do or do not, there is no try” quip to Luke in “The Empire Strikes Back” highlights the importance of calculated yet decisive action. These elements have enriched our cultural lexicon, offering timeless wisdom that continues to spark discussions on ethics, morality, and the human condition.
Star Wars characters are examples of courage, morality, and leadership; they range from the sage and formidable Yoda to the fearless and resilient Leia Organa, not to mention the inspiring Luke Skywalker, the great mentor Obe-Wan Kenobi, the young but promising Rey, the wise Ahsoka Tano, and the relatable Han Solo. Their growth- and challenge-filled paths reflect our own goals and frustrations. These characters are still relevant today because of their unique personalities and moral quandaries that provide a guide for overcoming life’s obstacles.
When contrasting Star Wars with more recent television shows and films, it becomes evident that although storytelling methods and technology have advanced, the fundamental appeal of venturing into the unknown and seeing the future has remained the same. The saga is a lasting work of pop culture because it successfully combines science and fantasy, epic adventure, and human development. It serves as a reminder that the narratives we tell can influence how we perceive the world and how we fit within it.
Instead of getting arrested in cinematic nostalgia, the current generation is encouraged to dream, question, explore, and discover through Star Wars. As we recall “May the 4th,” a comical riff on “May the Force be with you,” we are all reminded of the enduring impact of Lucas’ saga. In light of this somewhat simple yet special day, we should celebrate our reflections and see the exponential ubiquitousness and need for technology in almost all aspects of our way of life, not as a collection of tools but as an extension of human creativity and capability. The saga presents an amusing and educational picture of the future in a world where the distinction between science fiction and science fact becomes increasingly hazy.
Many of us chose science and technology degrees for reasons closely tied to our early interests, which were stoked by the books, magazines, journals, comics, audiobooks, e-books, cartoons, or vlogs we adored. Star Wars is a unique source of inspiration because it combines sound science with profound philosophical ideas, offering characters that exemplify the qualities of curiosity, resiliency, and moral leadership. This awe-inspiring narrative invites today’s youth to turn to the sky for inspiration and direction as they navigate the ever-expanding realm of science and technology, in addition to providing solid amusement.
***
Doc H fondly describes himself as a ‘student of and for life’ who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world that is grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views herewith do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with./PN
