The seventh installment of Final Fantasy, developed by Square Enix, is perhaps the most globally recognized entry in the series, having been widely released on the original PlayStation. Recently remade (Final Fantasy VII Remake and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth), the game has been acclaimed by both the gaming community and fans worldwide. One of the most compelling aspects of the game is its striking analogy to the real world, particularly in how it mirrors the environmental and corporate challenges we face today.
Shinra and the Real-World Corporate Analogy
In Final Fantasy VII, the Shinra Corporation is a global superpower that recklessly exploits the planet’s resources for profit, degrading the ecosystem in the process. Their actions are carried out with little regard for the long-term consequences. In opposition to Shinra is a group called Avalanche, which—aware of the damage being inflicted on the planet—resorts to acts of terrorism in a desperate attempt to stop the devastation. However, despite their efforts, they struggle to effect meaningful change. Eventually, the story takes a dramatic turn with the arrival of the enigmatic villain Sephiroth, propelling the group on a quest to save the world from destruction.
The story resonates because it reflects some of the environmental issues we face today, where large corporations, focused on short-term profit, exploit natural resources without considering the lasting impact on the planet. This leads to a question that is as relevant today as it was when the game was released: how can meaningful, lasting change be achieved in the face of corporate greed?
Ecological Activism
In reality, we frequently hear about ecological groups who resort to drastic actions—sometimes even labeled as terrorism—in an attempt to disrupt corporations’ harmful environmental practices. While the intentions of these groups may be noble, their methods are often problematic. Firstly, such actions rarely achieve the desired results. They may disrupt a small aspect of a corporation’s operations, but they seldom affect the broader systemic issues. Secondly, these actions can backfire by allowing the targeted companies to paint environmental activists as extremists, thus shifting public opinion against them.
A brief surge in public awareness may follow, but such incidents are often quickly forgotten. What lingers is the perception that these ecological groups are fanatical, rather than constructive, in their approach.
A Call for Proactive Solutions
For real change to occur, we need to shift our consciousness and awareness on a deeper level. Both large corporations and ecological groups are often entrenched in their respective systems and perspectives. Reacting to problems with force or disruption does not resolve the underlying issues. Instead, we must focus on proactive, collective solutions.
This process will take time, effort, and the cooperation of every individual. Step by step, we can increase awareness in those who are already conscious of the issues and spark awareness in those who remain unaware. The responsibility lies with those who have the most capabilities and potential—not just for their own benefit, but for the collective good of humanity and the planet.
Global Cooperation for Environmental Change
The effort must transcend individual communities and countries. We must extend our sense of responsibility beyond our borders and beyond our species. We need to care not only for ourselves but for all living beings and the planet itself. Final Fantasy VII reminds us of the devastating consequences of unchecked corporate power, but it also offers a vision of hope: that change, while difficult, is possible when people unite for a common cause.
Ultimately, the game reflects the broader truth that our choices today will shape the future of our world. It is up to us to take responsibility and take action, not just for our own sake, but for the generations to come.
#tales-posts
Leave a Reply