The Ultimate Philosophical Manga Guide: Unveiling the Top Pick!

Highlights

Thought-provoking manga can ignite hope and transform lives, as shown in "Mada, Ikiteru" and "Blue Period."

"Omoide Emanon" explores profound inquiries into human existence and the concept of immortality, captivating readers through its mesmerizing illustrations and gripping storyline.

"Monster" and "Berserk" take a deep dive into complex ethical dilemmas, human resilience, and the sinister aspects of human nature, providing exhilarating and intricate narratives.

The joy of art lies in its diversity. People explore various genres for different reasons; some use it as an escape from life's hardships, while others seek insight and self-reflection, and some simply explore for entertainment.

What's truly remarkable is how manga has the ability to transform lives. Thought-provoking manga can inspire individuals to break free from their limitations and achieve greater things. Additionally, there are numerous philosophical manga that deeply resonate with readers, guiding them towards finding their true passions. Examples of such manga include Blue Period and Berserk, both exploring different aspects of human nature.

8 Mada, Ikiteru

Mada, Ikiteru is a manga that delves into the theme of survival, but it goes beyond that. It explores the profound meaning of life and the inevitable challenges one must confront. The manga seeks to inspire hope in readers by depicting the transformative journey of Kenzou Okada, a weary man in his sixties who yearns for an end to his daily struggles and current predicament.

After a failed suicide attempt, Kenzou finds himself in the depths of a forest, where he discovers a more fulfilling existence. Making the most of his second chance, he undergoes a remarkable transformation, becoming hardened and different from his former self in the bustling city.

7 Omoide Emanon

Omoide Emanon narrates an unforgettable meeting between the protagonist and Emanon, a cryptic young woman who possesses the memories of the entire world. Bereft with the curse of immortality, she has repeatedly been reborn while retaining her vast recollections.

The mesmerizing artwork, Kenji Tsuruta's use of expressive colors, and the storyline have the potential to captivate manga enthusiasts. With its compelling and contemplative exploration of human existence, readers may find themselves pondering the reasons and mechanisms behind Emanon's extraordinary ability.

6 Koko Wa Ima Kara Rinri Desu

Exploring the application of ethics in everyday life, Koko wa Ima kara Rinri desu provides readers with insights into how Takayanagi's students navigate their personal challenges using the lessons taught in class. From a philosophical perspective, the manga delves into the concept of morality, with Takayanagi aiming to instill these values in his students. Each chapter of Koko wa Ima kara Rinri desu focuses on individual students, highlighting their journey in understanding and embracing morality.

5 Blue Period

Yatora Yaguchi, a high school student, yearns for genuine excitement and passion. Blue Period follows his relatable journey of self-discovery and uncovering his true passion. A pivotal moment occurs when Yaguchi becomes captivated by a piece of artwork during an art class, igniting his journey. As he immerses himself in the art world, he begins to feel a sense of ease and liberation. However, doubt, fear, and anxiety surface as Yaguchi contemplates pursuing his newfound passion. The manga's genuine portrayal of Yaguchi's struggle to gain his mother's support humbles and refreshes readers. Blue Period delves into introspective themes and the pursuit of personal growth, offering a universally relatable experience to its readers.

4 Shoujo Shuumatsu Ryokou

Shoujo Shuumatsu Ryokou follows the tale of Chito and Yuuri, two young girls navigating their city in the aftermath of war, in search of meaning amidst the wreckage. Along their expedition, they cross paths with Kanazawa and Ishi, encountering different realities.

These chance meetings underscore the significance of purpose in one's existence. Kanazawa's sense of direction dissipates when his maps are swept away by the wind, while Ishi's purpose falters after her plane crashes in the sky. Despite both individuals losing their will to carry on, the girls press forward on their journey.

3 Oyasumi Punpun

Presented in the form of a bird-shaped character named Punpun, this manga delves into his life, starting from his early exposure to the harsh realities of existence. These experiences profoundly influence Punpun's perception of both individuals and life itself.

As Punpun embarks on a journey from his childhood as an elementary student to his early twenties as a young man, he undergoes a transformation from a timid child to an isolated individual. Mental health and human behavior become central themes in this manga as Punpun grapples with the emotional toll inflicted by his life experiences. Witnessing his father's assault on his mother ignites a realization within him regarding the complex nature of human beings.

2 Monster

In a career-defining moment, Tenma faces a critical choice. Believing in his ethical principles, he opts to operate on a young boy with a gunshot wound, prioritizing his life over the mayor's delayed arrival. Consequently, this decision leads to the loss of Tenma's position as a neurosurgeon due to the hospital's preference for treating political figures.

Fast forward nine years, Tenma finds himself back at the hospital, now serving as the Chief of Surgery. However, he soon uncovers a disturbing truth—the repercussions of his choice nine years prior have resulted in a string of brutal murders throughout Germany, with Tenma himself being appointed Chief of Surgery as a direct consequence. The young boy, Johan, whom Tenma once saved, has transformed into a monstrous individual, mercilessly taking lives. As Tenma grapples with this revelation, he is compelled to take action and cease Johan's killing spree.

1 Berserk

This gripping philosophical thriller delves into profound themes such as the indomitable spirit of humanity, the complexities of human nature, the pursuit of vengeance, and the devastating effects of betrayal. The story revolves around Guts, a character whose formative years were marked by unspeakable horrors. Born from the lifeless remains of a corpse and later sold into servitude by his adoptive father, Guts has been burdened with deep-rooted trust issues, enduring a lifetime of adversity as he becomes entangled in a series of traumatic events that unfold throughout the pages of Berserk.

In this unflinchingly violent manga, readers are also confronted with the grim realities of human nature through the introduction of Griffith and his Band of Hawks. Griffith, consumed by his own selfish ambitions, callously sacrifices his loyal comrades in his relentless pursuit of power and dominance. These sinister revelations add layers of complexity to the captivating characters within Berserk, resulting in a truly thrilling and thought-provoking reading experience.