Content Warning: This episode discusses the horrors of war, systemic racism, and trauma. Please use discretion while listening.

In this episode of the Kinky Nerdy Poly Podcast, M and G dive deep into 86, a mecha anime that explores war, systemic racism, and the human spirit in a dystopian society. G shares why this anime ranks as one of their recent favorites (and why it is their "sad mecha anime"), and M reflects on what makes 86 so compelling with respect to its heavy themes. G and M tackle philosophical questions: What does it mean to challenge systemic injustices? How does trauma shape communities under duress? And what lessons can we draw from science fiction to confront our present-day challenges?

Key topics include:

• What is 86?: A breakdown of the anime's premise, including the Republic of San Magnolia, the marginalized "86," and the robotic enemy Legion.
• The Role of War and Racism: How 86 uses science fiction to critique systemic racism, societal complicity, and the trauma of war.
• Character Analysis: Discussions about Major Vladilena "Lena" Milizé's savior complex and growth, and Shin "Undertaker" Nouzen's immense burden as the leader of Spearhead Squadron.
• Ethics of Autonomous Weapons: Timely reflections on the implications of AI and remotely controlled weapons in real-world warfare.

Sources and Mentions from the Episode:

• 86 (anime adaptation) produced by A-1 Pictures, based on the light novel series by Asato Asato.
• YouTube review: Mother’s Basement’s Review of 86 (https://youtu.be/O8P0P8mY0CI?si=On2T7qy267P2lJh-)

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The music in this episode is the Secret of Tiki Island by Kevin MacLeod and is licensed under Creative Commons 3.0. You can find more of Kevin MacLeod’s music at his website.

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