Introduction

The popularity of Dragon Ball series has certainly captivated a global audience for decades. However, as its mainly anime and manga formats are analyzed, discussions about cultural sensitivity and racial representation have intensified. This article aims to explore the potential racism in Dragon Ball and its series Dragon Ball Super.

Cultural Context

The issue of racism in Dragon Ball is a complex one, rooted deeply in cultural context. While these fictional universes might be hyperbolic and fantastical, they still reflect real-world issues. The series originates in Japan, where its cultural perceptions may differ from those in the Western world.

Character Design and Stereotypes

Some critics have pointed out that certain character designs in Dragon Ball perpetuate stereotypes. For example, characters like Mr. Popo have been criticized for their exaggerated features, which some interpret as racially insensitive. These design choices can be seen as reflective of cultural norms in Japan, where such portrayals may not carry the same connotations as they do in Western contexts. Similarly, the design of black characters in the series has faced scrutiny. Whether intentional or not, these portrayals can be seen as problematic in a global context.

Portrayal of Diversity

The series has received criticism for its limited and often stereotypical portrayal of diversity. The lack of variety in non-Asian characters and their depiction can be seen as problematic. The frequent use of terms like "monkey" for Saiyans (a reference often interpreted as derogatory) and the censorship and localization issues faced in certain regions further add to the debate over cultural sensitivity.

Censorship and Localization

In many regions, censorship and localization decisions have been made to ensure the series is more palatable to a broader audience. However, these decisions can lead to a distorted representation of the original content. For instance, some black characters in the series have been censored, removing their darker skin tones, which has been criticized for perpetuating negative stereotypes and erasing important cultural representation.

Audience Reception

For fans of the series, opinions on the issue of racism in Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Super vary widely. Some viewers appreciate the entertainment value and themes of perseverance and growth, while others are more critical of its representations and implications. The series has tackled themes of racism and discrimination, albeit in a way that may not be universally perceived as positive or effective.

Conclusion

While Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Super can be criticized for their potential to perpetuate racial stereotypes and issues of cultural sensitivity, it is important to remember that these are fictional universes created for entertainment. The real-world implications and critiques arise from the influence such media can have on a global audience. As with any form of media, discussions about cultural sensitivity, diversity, and representation are ongoing and necessary.

References

For more information, refer to the following sources:

“Your Defense for Dragon Ball is Useless Because There Is So Much Racism” by Chive News “Dragon Ball and Its Race Conversations” by David Weathered “Dragon Ball Racism: Why Rick Ross Said It’s Not Probable, According to Sig Riko” by Polygon