The episode "Star Mort: Rickturn of the Jerri" from Season 4 of Rick and Morty is analyzed through a philosophical lens. The episode appears to be a straightforward sci-fi parody but is actually about the clash between two opposing philosophical arguments: the appeal to nature and evolutionary ethics.
The appeal to nature, represented by the character Bruce, is the idea that whatever is natural is inherently good. However, this argument is deemed a fallacy as it is not supported by research and is often used to justify harmful or outdated practices.
On the other hand, the character Steve represents the idea of progress and self-chosen evolution. However, Steve's obsession with progress and modernity is also criticized as it can lead to a focus on externalities and material possessions rather than what truly brings fulfillment.
The episode ultimately suggests that the middle path is the best approach, where one finds a balance between preserving what is natural and good and embracing progress and change. The episode ends with the characters rejecting both extremes and choosing to forge their own path.
The analysis also draws parallels between the episode's themes and real-world issues, such as the effects of modernization on family structures and the importance of finding meaning and fulfillment in life.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The episode of Rick and Morty being discussed is Season 4, Episode 7, titled "Promortyus".
2. The episode features Rick and Morty being controlled by parasites.
3. The parasites have a 30-minute life cycle, during which they attach to a host, lay an egg, and then die.
4. Summer introduces the idea of not following the parasites' natural life cycle, leading to a new society.
5. Steve, the parasite controlling Morty, wants to adopt the new way of life, while Bruce, the parasite controlling Rick, wants to stick to the old ways.
6. The episode explores the philosophical ideas of "appeal to nature" and "evolutionary ethics".
7. The concept of "appeal to nature" is deemed a fallacy, as it assumes that natural things are inherently good.
8. The episode also touches on the idea that progress is not always inherently good and can come at a cost.
9. The US Census reported that only about 55% of adults were married in 2017, down from 70% in 1960.
10. Birth rates have also declined, with the rate now less than half of what it was in 1957.
11. Demographer Dowell Myers suggests that the birth rate is a "barometer of despair", and that young people are less likely to have babies if they are pessimistic about the future.
12. The episode ends with Steve and Bruce finding a middle path and deciding to "be whatever we want", symbolizing evolution and progress.