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Essay / Depiction of different types of government in the film Antz
Table of ContentsIntroductionGovernment and Leadership in AntzConclusionIntroductionLaw, order and government are a fundamental part of society today, and this can be seen all over the world today, as well as in the media. In DreamWorks' Antz, the story goes far beyond the struggles of the ant colony and touches on many different aspects of civics and government. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essayGovernment and Leadership in AntzThe conflict in the film begins with two opposing forces, Z and General Mandible. It is evident that each character's actions and opinions resemble a type of government. Z's personality is best exemplified by a democratic government and, contradictorily, General Mandible's character resembles a dictatorship. Z is an ant who wholeheartedly believes in equality, respect and freedom in the way he walks, talks and acts. These are characteristics that are not only valued by Z but also constitute an important aspect of democracy. From the beginning, Z complains about not having a choice in life and wanting to be able to stand on his own two feet. In the end, we learn that Z is finally satisfied with his place in society: “It’s exactly where I started. But this time, I choose it.” Z wants everyone to be born with the freedom to choose what they want to do. This is in line with the theory of philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, according to which everyone is born free and everyone comes together to build equality. Z's morals and key beliefs are closely tied to this philosophy, as Z wants the freedom and opportunity to pursue his passion as he sees fit, without being less or more than anyone around him. Democracies promote the rights and freedoms of every individual, allowing everyone to have the power to decide their own destiny, because part of democracy is being able to make their own decision and vote. Z also emphasizes the importance of collaboration, as shown countless times in the film when Z strives to improve the colony. He repeatedly uses the pronoun "we" to prove his point about teamwork and collaboration: "We can't leave now...we have to help everyone get out of here." Z is determined to obtain this freedom, but he does not let go of his firm conviction of coming together for the common good. The basis of democracy is to come together and collaborate without being superior to each other. This is seen in the film as Z's character evolves throughout the film. At the very beginning, when the ants were supposed to gather together and make a wrecking ball, Z was not able to accomplish his goal to the extent of his expectations. But, at the end of the film, when the ants make a ladder, Z makes them succeed even though it puts him in danger. It illustrates the importance of collaboration. In a democracy, the government is there to support the citizens, and ultimately we all help each other, whether intentionally or through taxes. Z's actions and thoughts fall into the liberal category on the political spectrum, because he believes that everything could be better: “We rebuilt the colony. It's even better than ever. Z is ready and willing to accept change to improve the colony and individuals should have more freedom. Both of these factors align with the beliefs and ideologies of someone with a more liberal perspective and Z would follow that as well. When Z describes what he sees in the perfect colony, many.