One notable example is Attack on Titan, which explores themes of nationalism, militarism, and freedom. The series portrays a society under siege, where humanity is confined within walls to protect itself from monstrous titans. As the story unfolds, it delves into the cyclical nature of violence, questioning blind loyalty to authority and challenging the justification of war. The series uses its dystopian setting to highlight the destructive consequences of xenophobia and the dehumanization of "the other."

Psycho-Pass is another anime that tackles social issues, particularly the balance between freedom and security. Set in a dystopian future where people’s mental states are monitored by a system that can predict criminal behavior, the series raises important ethical questions about surveillance, privacy, and preemptive justice. The show critiques the idea of a perfectly controlled society, asking whether safety is worth sacrificing personal freedom. It’s a reflection of modern concerns regarding the role of technology in shaping the future of law enforcement and social order.

Neon Genesis Evangelion addresses mental health and the psychological toll of societal expectations. The characters, particularly Shinji Ikari, struggle with feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, and the pressure to meet others' expectations. The series deconstructs the typical heroic narrative found in anime, focusing instead on the inner turmoil and emotional fragility of its protagonists. By exploring depression, anxiety, and self-worth, Evangelion offers a raw and honest portrayal of mental health issues.

Anime like Tokyo Ghoul addresses the topic of identity and marginalization. The protagonist, Kaneki, is transformed into a half-ghoul, becoming part of a race that is hunted and feared by society. The show explores the fear of the unknown and the othering of those who do not conform to societal norms. By portraying ghouls as sentient beings with their own emotions and struggles, Tokyo Ghoul forces viewers to question the concept of monsters and reflect on real-world issues of discrimination and exclusion.

Your Lie in April takes on the subject of grief and trauma through the lens of a young pianist who loses his ability to play music after his mother’s death. The anime explores how people cope with loss, the weight of unresolved trauma, and the path to healing. Through its heartfelt story, Your Lie in April highlights the importance of emotional expression and the role of art as a means of processing difficult emotions, resonating deeply with those who have experienced loss or hardship.

Environmental themes are central in Princess Mononoke, where the conflict between industrialization and nature is portrayed through the battle between humans and the spirits of the forest. The film highlights the consequences of environmental destruction and human exploitation of natural resources. It presents a nuanced depiction of both sides, showing that neither humans nor nature are inherently good or evil, but rather caught in a struggle for survival. The movie’s message about environmental responsibility is particularly relevant in today’s world.

March Comes in Like a Lion delves into issues of bullying and isolation. The series follows Rei Kiriyama, a young professional shogi player, as he navigates his struggles with loneliness and depression. The show offers a compassionate look at how bullying can affect a person’s mental health and the importance of kindness and community in overcoming feelings of isolation. By focusing on Rei’s emotional journey, the anime sheds light on the profound impact of bullying and the need for empathy in dealing with social pressures.

Zankyou no Terror (Terror in Resonance) brings attention to the complexities of terrorism and societal alienation. The story follows two teenagers who carry out acts of terrorism in Tokyo, but their motivations are far more complex than mere destruction. The series examines the root causes of their actions, touching on themes of government corruption, societal neglect, and the alienation of youth. By humanizing its protagonists, the anime challenges viewers to consider the reasons behind radical actions and the flaws in societal structures that can lead to such extreme behavior.

The Wind Rises, directed by Hayao Miyazaki, addresses the ethical dilemmas of technological innovation during wartime. The film follows Jiro Horikoshi, the designer of Japan’s World War II fighter planes, and explores his conflicted feelings about creating weapons of destruction despite his passion for engineering. It raises questions about the moral responsibilities of creators and the implications of technological advancements in warfare, reflecting on the consequences of human ingenuity when it is directed toward violent ends.

Lastly, Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day explores themes of guilt, grief, and the emotional toll of unresolved trauma. The story centers around a group of friends who are haunted by the death of a childhood friend. The anime depicts how each character copes with their grief in different ways, showing how trauma can affect relationships and emotional growth. Anohana is a poignant reminder of the long-lasting effects of loss and the importance of confronting emotional pain rather than avoiding it.