The co-editors of Battlestar Galactica and Philosophy return with an exploration of the philosophical and psychological themes of the Japanese anime films and TV series that have become the most popular with Western audiences, such as the films of Hayao Miyazaki and the Ghost in the Shell films. Contributors are academics in philosophy, popular culture studies, creative writing, film, and communication studies, and highlight characters who grapple with questions of societal violence, morality, justice, heroism, identity, and the soul. Essays are in sections on body, mind, spirit, conflict, heroes, devils, and future worlds. The book includes b&w illustrations, a glossary of the anime universe, and lists of recommended films, books, web sites. Its readership includes fans, newbies, and students. Steiff is associate chair of the Department of Film and Video at Columbia College Chicago. He is also co-author of Manga and Philosophy. Tamplin holds a PhD in philosophy. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)