There is no shortage of fascinating and compelling treatments of important philosophical topics in contemporary pop culture, and nowhere is this more true than with the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This presentation will explore several philosophical themes. First, the key characters in the films represent distinct moral frameworks—Iron Man is a utilitarian, Captain America focuses on duty, and Thor exemplifies virtue theory. Their different moral perspectives have unique implications for what it looks like to "save the world." Second, at a number of turns, the Marvel Cinematic Universe explores questions of free will and agency. Why is it important for a person to be in the Iron Man suit? Is Jarvis a moral agent? What kind of agency and moral responsibility (if any) does artificial intelligence have? Finally, the Infinity Saga is inherently philosophical. Is Thanos a villain? Is there any moral defense of Thanos' "snap"?
255 A