What 'Breaking Bad' really teaches us about power and morality
What's the story
Breaking Bad follows the life of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher who becomes a methamphetamine producer. Famous for demonstrating how one decision sets off a chain reaction, it explores choices and how they affect the self and other people. Let's take a look at what the series taught us about consequences and how far they can reach.
#1
Actions have ripple effects
In Breaking Bad, each of Walter White's decisions triggers a chain reaction impacting many lives. His first decision to produce drugs leads to unforeseen consequences for his family, friends, and associates. The show teaches how one decision can create a domino effect, and emphasizes the importance of thinking about consequences before acting.
#2
Moral ambiguity and its impact
The series tackles moral ambiguity head-on as characters frequently navigate ethically complex situations. Walter's metamorphosis from a law-abiding citizen to a criminal mastermind prompts queries about morality and ethics. The ambiguity showcases how blurred moral lines can yield unforeseen consequences, highlighting the importance of clear ethical boundaries.
#3
Consequences are unpredictable
Throughout Breaking Bad, characters are never spared from the unpredictability of their actions. Despite having everything meticulously planned, Walter is faced with so many unexpected challenges that they only complicate his plans. This unpredictability highlights that not all well-thought-out actions yield the expected results, emphasizing the significance of adaptability in how to deal with consequences.
#4
Personal choices affect others
In Breaking Bad, Walter White's transformation from a chemistry teacher to a meth producer is a prime example of how personal choices ripple through the lives of everyone around him. His decisions, propelled by desperation and ambition, drastically impact his family, friends, and business partners. The story highlights how connected our decisions are, that isolated actions can impact others' lives far and wide, reiterating the intricacies of personal choices and their repercussions.
Tip 5
Power dynamics shift over time
As Walter White gains power from his illegal activities, the power dynamics within his relationships and business dealings undergo dramatic shifts. These changes illustrate how gaining/losing power can alter relationships drastically and affect outcomes in ways one might not expect. It highlights the fluid nature of power dynamics in scenarios driven by consequences, underscoring their complexity and unpredictability.