I see both of their points

We live in capitalistic meritocratic society. It is imbued within us to work and output results to feel worthy and deserving.

“Only those that work eat”
“Earn your keep”

Recently, there has been criticisms of these systems because they are toxic and well...they’re harmful as we see with our MC. These philosophies were also founded in slavery in relation to the value of labor over people. The meritocracy in itself is not bad and resulted in a significant increase in the quality of many low income families. Arguably, it is responsible for the formation of the middle class. However, it has become very twisted over the years and advocates want the deconstruction of these systems for policies that promote equity.

My personal thoughts are that these structures were useful but have not become outdated. More complex and environment tailored structures should be implemented.

The commander has a good point about Kondou following this mindset and holding himself to these values. However, the commander lives in an aristocratic society. Which irrefutably worse than capitalism to the meritocracy. Capitalism is so beloved despite it flaws because compared to the previous feudal system in place, it was revolutionary. Mankind experienced a massive glo up in all fields. They’re beating a dead horse now but it used to be stallion.

Kondou is trying to propel their society before it crashes and doing so alone is hazardous. The best solution would be to divvy up the responsibilities, but I’m guessing the finances are in a state of emergency and he doesn’t have the time to teach everyone the proper way.

Something, interesting is that Kondo observed that the commander allocated most of his responsibilities to his subordinates, a very feudal aristocratic thing to do. He took that as a difference in their societal system. However, in our society top brasses having less work and responsibilities is also common. Which, is also a way that demonstrates how our current systems have twisted and have become similar to those of a feudal time where instead of nobles there are corporate monopolies and billionaires.


Nobody asked, but in this essay I,