Exploring the Role of Anime and Manga in Shaping Social Attitudes among Animation Students

Abstract

Manga & Anime subculture exported from Japan to globally sometimes called
“Animanga” for ease of discussion. Today the impact of this visual popular culture so
immense that almost every country has been witnessing Comic Con Events, Cosplay
and communities which further resulted into a shaping cultural participation and
social behavioural attitude. Today this has been become a one sided relation known as
“Parasocial Phenomena” and potential sources of emotional attachment, inspiration,
and social learning. Earlier research has explored anime fandom, media consumption
and market trends However, it seems there is little research on the significance of
emotional attachments with anime and manga characters on the development of
Social Attitudes among the youth. The present study attempts to fill this gap, and
examines the role of exposure to anime and manga in the development of emotional
attachment to fictional characters, and in the development of attitudes related to
empathy, cultural diversity, cooperation, responsible citizenship and Sustainable
values. The research design included a structured questionnaire measuring
quantitative and qualitative insights. The study also provides insights for policy makers
from academia and researchers regarding the educational and social possibilities of
anime and manga in developing sustainability.