Reflections on Realism in Society: Lessons from 'Three Days of the Condor'

Cultural and cinematic works often offer profound insights into the challenges and dynamics of society. Two particularly striking examples are both deeply rooted in the era of their inception but continue to resonate today: the Studio Ghibli film 'The Legend of Princess Kaguya' and the 1975 film 'Three Days of the Condor'.

Princess Kaguya's Wisdom

Princess Kaguya, the protagonist of the Studio Ghibli film 'The Legend of Princess Kaguya', delivers a powerful message when she says, 'Leave behind this world’s sorrow and uncleaneness.' This quote embodies a deep understanding of human emotion and life's multifaceted nature. Her words have always been a source of comfort during times of depression, serving as a reminder that even in the midst of sorrow and turmoil, life offers various shades of experience. This principle of embracing all facets of life, despite the shadows it casts, resonates deeply with many.

Joe Turner's Wisdom

The concluding dialog of 'Three Days of the Condor,' starring Robert Redford as Joe Turner, offers a starkly different perspective yet equally profound. Joe Turner's final exchange with CIA official Richard ‘Higgins’ turns the narrative towards a more realistic view of human nature and societal progress. Higgins’ statement, 'Ask them when they’re running out. Ask ‘em when there’s no heat in their homes and they’re cold. Ask ‘em when their engines stop. Ask ‘em when people who have never known hunger start going hungry. They won’t want us to ask ‘em; they’ll just want us to get it for them,' encapsulates the crux of the film and beyond.

Context and Impact

'Three Days of the Condor' was released in 1975, a period marked by significant social, political, and environmental upheavals. The rise in environmental awareness, the Vietnam War, the oil crisis, and the Watergate scandal collectively shaped the zeitgeist. The film's final lines serve as a chilling realpolitik statement, reflecting a skepticism about the human commitment to environmental sustainability when faced with real hardship.

Relating to Professional and Personal Life

In my professional and personal life, I often encountered the belief that solving environmental challenges simply meant saying no. This approach, while intended to be wholesome, often falls short when faced with the harsh realities of human needs and economic pressures. For example, during my time in the military, there were instances where limited resources led to restrictive management policies. However, I argue that while human impacts are a significant problem, they are also an integral part of the solution.

Reflecting on the arid environment of the southwest, the challenge was to balance conservation with access and engagement. When the refuge biologist proposed a restrictive approach, I invoked 'Three Days of the Condor' to highlight the future that may unfold if we disconnect people from nature. The fear that, one day, useful resources will be discovered without any one caring for their protection, underscores the importance of experiential engagement with the natural world.

Conclusion: Ideals vs. Reality

To conclude, the wisdom from 'Three Days of the Condor' serves as a poignant reminder that ideals are tested not when things are going well, but in the harsh realities of life. 'Leave behind this world’s sorrow and uncleaneness' from 'The Legend of Princess Kaguya' and 'Ask ‘em when they’re running out' from 'Three Days of the Condor' together offer a comprehensive view of life, society, and sustainability.

While the environments we strive to protect may seem pristine and pure, engaging with them on the ground is crucial for their long-term survival. This engagement is not just about preservation but also about human connection and understanding. As we face impending challenges, remembering the lessons from these films can guide us towards actions that are both necessary and humane.