PANDORAN PHILOSOPHER
Kaltxì (hello)! My name is Gavin MJ. I was born and raised in Indonesia, my Pandora. Ever since I watched Avatar (2009) in elementary school, I wrote an award-winning book sequel in 6th grade on volcanic islander Na’vi with language variations and a new religion based on the franchise’s off-screen creatures.
A decade later, I earned a B.A. in Philosophy (summa cum laude) and Certificate in Great Books from Torrey Honors College, Biola University. I started Pandoran Philosopher during my gap year, and I’m currently pursuing an M.A. in Philosophy of Religion & Philosophical Theology at Yale University.
Three Principles and Scope of My Writings
- I do not write on speculations, polemics, or obscurities on Avatar; rather, I write on noticeable themes, major inspirations, and definite world of Avatar.
- I do not attempt to “force” a philosophy into Avatar movies; rather, I explore, extract, and expand the philosophies already/organically integrated in Avatar movies.
- I do not focus on what’s primarily set up for future sequels of Avatar (ex. ash people); rather, I focus on the established materials of Avatar.
My writing endeavor is driven by awe and wonder, the possibilities of creative synthesis of ideas, and the relevance of Avatar in helping us learn how to “see.” And I see the Avatar universe as a treasure field rich in wisdom and insights.
P.S. I also do research (with my student habits of diving into a subfield or discipline’s frameworks, methodologies, literature, etc.), apply what I know, and learn what I do not know. Overall, I have a lot of fun with this project 🙂
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PANDORAN PHILOSOPHER 