Person of Interest is a sci-fi thriller TV show that aired from 2011 to 2016. It follows a team of vigilantes who use an artificial intelligence (AI) called The Machine to prevent crimes before they happen. The show explores themes such as surveillance, privacy, morality, and free will.
You might think that Person of Interest is outdated or irrelevant in 2023, but I beg to differ. In fact, I think that Person of Interest is more relevant than ever in our current world. Here are some reasons why:
AI is everywhere:
We live in an age where AI is ubiquitous and powerful. We use AI for everything from entertainment to education to health care. We rely on AI to make decisions for us and to optimize our lives. But how much do we really know about how AI works and what it does with our data? How much control do we have over AI and how much control does it have over us? Person of Interest shows us the potential benefits and dangers of AI, and challenges us to question its role and influence in our society.
Surveillance is pervasive:
We live in an age where surveillance is pervasive and invasive. We are constantly watched by cameras, drones, satellites, sensors, and devices. We willingly share our personal information online and offline. Furthermore, we are tracked by governments, corporations, hackers, and criminals. But how much privacy do we really have, and what do we sacrifice for security? How much trust do we have in those who watch us and how much accountability do they have? Person of Interest shows us the implications of living under constant surveillance, and urges us to protect our rights and freedoms.
Morality is complex:
We live in an age where morality is complex and ambiguous. We face ethical dilemmas every day that challenge our values and beliefs. Furthermore, we encounter situations where there is no clear right or wrong answer, or where the ends justify the means. Not only that, but we deal with conflicts between individuals, groups, nations, and ideologies. But how do we decide what is good and evil and who decides for us? How do we balance justice with mercy and compassion with pragmatism? Person of Interest shows us the complexity of morality, and inspires us to act with integrity and empathy.
Free will is precious:
We live in an age where free will is precious and fragile. We are influenced by many factors that shape our choices and actions: social norms, cultural values, peer pressure, media messages, biases, emotions, etc. Likewise, we also face threats that could undermine our free will: manipulation, coercion, brainwashing, hacking, etc. But how much freedom do we really have and what do we value most? How much responsibility do we take for our actions and their consequences? Person of Interest shows us the importance of free will, and encourages us to exercise it wisely.
Characters are relatable:
One of the reasons why Person of Interest is so engaging and compelling is because of its characters. They are not just stereotypes or clichés; they are complex and realistic human beings who have flaws, strengths, motivations, emotions, relationships, and growth arcs. They are not just heroes or villains; they are people who struggle with moral dilemmas and personal issues. Not only that, but they are not just agents or targets; they are individuals who have identities, histories, personalities, hopes, fears, dreams, regrets, etc. Furthermore, they make us care about them because they make us see ourselves in them. Person of Interest shows us the relatability of its characters and connects us to their stories.
Person of Interest is not just a TV show; it’s a reflection of our reality. It’s a warning about what could happen if we don’t pay attention to what’s going on around us. It’s also a hope for what could happen if we do something about it. If you haven’t watched Person of Interest yet or if you want to rewatch it again, I highly recommend it. You won’t regret it.
This is just what I’ve been saying too. I hope people heed you and start watching the series. So much to learn from it.