Breaking Bad: Walter White Did Absolutely Nothing Wrong | Video Essay

Summary

The video script presents an ethical analysis of Walter White from 'Breaking Bad', arguing that he is not a bad person but rather a misunderstood character driven by his circumstances. It explores how his mistreatment and terminal cancer diagnosis lead him to embrace power and assert control in his life. The discussion references psychological concepts, including the Oedipus complex, to highlight the importance of father figures, positioning Walter as a flawed yet compelling role model. Ultimately, the analysis defends Walter's actions as justifiable, emphasizing his intentions to provide for his family and achieve personal fulfillment.

Takeaways

• 😀 Walter White is often viewed as a good man who turns evil, but this analysis argues he did nothing wrong.
• 😀 Walter faced significant personal struggles, including being mistreated by his family, losing his job, and receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis.
• 😀 The term 'based' describes Walter's character development, illustrating his journey to self-empowerment and becoming a role model.
• 😀 Walter White lacked a father figure, which affected his development, but he ultimately becomes a powerful figure for his son and Jesse Pinkman.
• 😀 Walter's actions, including violence, can be seen as justifiable within the context of his circumstances and the protection of his family.
• 😀 The script discusses the ethical implications of Walter's choices, likening them to philosophical dilemmas like the trolley problem.
• 😀 Walter's decisions to let characters like Jane die are framed as necessary actions to save Jesse's life from further harm.
• 😀 The analysis claims that Walter's killings were justifiable, pointing out that he acted out of necessity and self-defense.
• 😀 Walter's relationship with Jesse is complex; while he manipulates him, it is framed as tough love aimed at guiding him.
• 😀 The conclusion posits that Walter White's ultimate victory and peaceful death reflect his moral journey, suggesting he deserved to win.

Q & A

What is the main premise of the ethical analysis regarding Walter White in *Breaking Bad*?

The analysis argues that Walter White's actions, while often perceived as immoral, can be justified by his circumstances, motivations, and character development throughout the series.

How does the analysis characterize Walter White's initial life situation?

Walter White is portrayed as a mistreated and disrespected high school teacher who feels marginalized, having been cut out of a successful business by former partners and struggling with terminal lung cancer.

What role does the concept of power play in Walter's transformation?

Power is central to Walter's character arc; his transition from a passive figure to an influential drug lord reflects his desire to reclaim agency and respect, both for himself and as a father figure.

What is the Oedipus complex, and how does it relate to Walter's character?

The Oedipus complex, as described by Freud, involves a child's unconscious desires and conflicts regarding their parents. Walter's lack of a strong father figure drives him to become a mentor for Jesse Pinkman and his son, Flynn, as he seeks to establish his own authority.

How does the analysis differentiate between 'justified' and 'justifiable' actions?

Justified actions are those that have already been rationalized or defended, whereas justifiable actions are those that can be defended given the context, suggesting that Walter's decisions, although morally ambiguous, can be justified based on his circumstances.

What specific examples of Walter's actions are highlighted as justifiable in the analysis?

Walter's decisions to kill Krazy-8 and Jane are cited as justifiable acts intended to protect Jesse's life and maintain control over his situation, illustrating his willingness to take drastic measures for perceived greater goods.

How is Walter's relationship with Jesse portrayed in the analysis?

Walter's relationship with Jesse is complex; while he manipulates and controls him, this behavior is seen as a form of tough love aimed at guiding Jesse away from self-destructive paths.

What conclusion does the analysis reach regarding Walter White's character arc?

The analysis concludes that Walter White's journey is one of redemption, as his actions stem from a desire to provide for his family and achieve a sense of control over his legacy, culminating in a peaceful death where he dies on his own terms.

What philosophical dilemma is referenced to illustrate Walter's moral decision-making?

The trolley problem is referenced, which challenges the audience to consider the ethics of choosing between saving multiple lives at the cost of one, paralleling Walter's decisions regarding life and death in the series.

How does the analysis frame Walter's ultimate fate in the series?

Walter's fate is framed as one of victory, where he achieves ultimate power and control, dies peacefully, and ensures his family's financial security, raising questions about morality and the nature of his character.