Why Does Luke Keep Calling Obi-Wan Ben?

From a young age, Luke Skywalker addressed his mentor, Obi-Wan Kenobi, as 'Ben'. This choice of address reflects a deep psychological and linguistic anomaly that sheds light on the characters' backgrounds and interpersonal dynamics.

The Importance of Naming in Star Wars

In the Star Wars universe, names hold significant weight. Just as Ben Kenobi chooses a name for his cover on Tatooine, so too did Luke grow up associating a character with the name 'Ben'. This practice aligns with the broader theme of identity and how it is shaped by one's environment and relationships.

Personal Preference vs. Cultural Norms

Ben was the name that Kenobi himself asked to be called, reflecting a personal preference that Luke, growing up on Tatooine, respected and adhered to. While Luke knows that 'Obi-Wan' is his mentor's original name and the name others use, he has had no reason to believe it is the name his mentor personally prefers. In fact, he has reason to believe the opposite, as 'Ben' is the name Luke has known his mentor by for nineteen years.

Psychological Continuity and Habit

Psychologically, people often maintain habits and preferences even after they know the reasons behind them. Much like the narrator who called their neighbor 'Spanky' for 15 years, Luke's use of 'Ben' reflects a deeply ingrained habit that transcends logical shifts in understanding. This practice highlights the power of habit and the psychological comfort it provides, even when the rational mind acknowledges different names.

Interpersonal Addressment and Perceived Belonging

When first referenced in the film, Luke wondered, 'I wonder if she means old Ben Kenobi'. This statement indicates that even when faced with a new piece of information, Luke's understanding and addressment of his mentor remains rooted in what he has known and believed. This linguistic choice underscores the psychological importance of perceived belonging and identity.

Exile and Continuity

It's worth noting that when Obi-Wan was in exile, he lived under the name 'Ben Kenobi', and Luke followed this convention. This continuity in addressment is significant because it emphasizes the stability and persistence of such habits, even during times of apparent change.

Conclusion

The complex interplay between addressing a character and understanding their identity in Star Wars reflects broader social and psychological principles. It illustrates the tendency of individuals to adhere to established norms and practices, even when given new information that could lead to a different understanding. Through Luke's consistent use of 'Ben', we see a reflection of both deep personal bonds and the constraints of habit and trust.

Keywords: Obi-Wan Kenobi, Luke Skywalker, Addressment, Character Development, Cultural Norms