Shogo Makishima
Shogo Makishima |
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Kanji | 槙島 聖護 |
Romaji | Makishima Shougo |
Age: | Unknown |
Birthday: | Unknown |
Height: | 5’11” (180 cm) |
Voice Actor | |
Japanese: | Takahiro Sakurai |
English: | Alex Organ |
Shogo Makishima (槙島 聖護, Makishima Shōgo), is the primary antagonist of the first season of Psycho-Pass. As a criminally asymptomatic individual, Makishima is immune to the Sybil System’s ability to detect his criminal intent, allowing him to commit heinous acts without raising his Crime Coefficient. Charismatic and highly intelligent, he serves as a philosophical foil to the protagonists, particularly Shinya Kogami and Akane Tsunemori, as he challenges the ethical foundation of their society.
Makishima’s ultimate goal is to overthrow the Sybil System, which he views as a mechanism that suppresses individuality and reduces humans to obedient drones. His actions and ideology make him one of the most complex and memorable villains in anime.
Background
Appearance in Anime
Makishima’s origins and early life are shrouded in mystery, but it is implied that his criminally asymptomatic nature and keen intellect set him apart from society from a young age. His inability to connect with others on an emotional level left him feeling alienated, fostering a deep disdain for the conformity and complacency he perceived in those around him.
Makishima’s ideological opposition to the Sybil System stems from his belief that it strips humanity of its autonomy and creativity. He views the system as a tool for controlling and pacifying the population, turning individuals into mindless cogs in a machine. This belief drives his actions throughout the series, as he seeks to expose the system’s flaws and ignite a revolution.
Appearance
Makishima is a tall, lean man with pale skin, silver-gray hair, and sharp golden eyes. His elegant and refined appearance reflects his intelligence and charisma, while his composed demeanor underscores his dangerous nature.
Makishima’s attire often includes tailored suits and long coats, emphasizing his sophisticated and cultured personality. His immaculate appearance contrasts starkly with the chaos and violence he orchestrates, symbolizing his detached and methodical approach to his goals.
Personality
Makishima is a deeply philosophical and introspective individual who values individuality and free will above all else. He is highly articulate and eloquent, often quoting literature and philosophy to articulate his views on society and morality. Despite his sociopathic tendencies, Makishima possesses a certain charisma that allows him to manipulate others and inspire loyalty among his followers.
However, Makishima’s lack of empathy and emotional connection to others makes him a cold and ruthless figure. He is willing to commit unspeakable acts of violence to achieve his goals, viewing them as necessary steps toward liberating humanity from the Sybil System’s control.
Role in the Story
Psycho-Pass (Season 1)
Makishima serves as the central antagonist, orchestrating a series of elaborate crimes to challenge the Sybil System and expose its weaknesses. He uses his immunity to the system’s judgment to manipulate others, including latent criminals and enforcers, into carrying out his plans.
One of Makishima’s most notable schemes involves inciting riots and chaos in society by distributing helmets that mask the wearers’ Psycho-Pass readings. This act not only challenges the system’s authority but also forces the Public Safety Bureau to confront the limitations of their reliance on the Sybil System.
Makishima’s ideological conflict with Shinya Kogami forms the core of the series. Their cat-and-mouse game culminates in a tense confrontation, with Kogami ultimately taking Makishima’s life in defiance of the Sybil System’s directives.
Relationships
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Shinya Kogami
Makishima and Kogami share a deep and mutual understanding of each other’s philosophies, making them ideological opposites and rivals. Their interactions are marked by intense intellectual and physical battles, with Makishima often challenging Kogami’s beliefs about justice and morality. -
Akane Tsunemori
Makishima views Akane as an intriguing individual who has the potential to transcend the system’s constraints. Their encounters highlight the stark contrast between Akane’s idealism and Makishima’s cynicism. -
Sybil System
Makishima’s primary enemy, the Sybil System, represents everything he despises about society. His actions are aimed at dismantling the system and exposing its flaws to the public.