The comparison of Douglas Adam’s novel The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy written in 1979 and James Cameron’s 2009 film Avatar examines the consequences of valuing technology and a transformation of an individual through self-actualisation. Despite the difference in the transition from the 1970s, the beginning of modern computing to the 21st century, the period of Digital Revolution and the increasing rise in Third World consumerism, some aspects of human nature remain consistent. Both texts explore similar aspects of humanity including humanity’s propensity to depend on technology, and individuals achieving self-actualisation and realising their potentialities they may emerge from the personal experiences they encounter. Thus, as texts reflect on their context, it is evident that human nature remains consistent throughout different contexts.
In The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy , Adams examines the consequences of valuing
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Arthur Dent’s initial ignorant personality is shown through the characterisation of him, “It would sort itself out, he’d decided, no one wanted a bypass”. This shows that he does not pay much attention to what is happening, even though it may cause problems. However, the development in his personality is shown through the dialogue between Arthur and the others. When Zaphod states that they shouldn’t turn on the Improbability Drive, Arthur answers, “does that matter at this stage?” and turns it on, which saves all their lives. This shows the development in Arthur, showing his potentiality to solve problems. Arthur also displays a change in personality by expressing his excitement towards something beautiful, through exclamation, “I’ve never seen anything like it in my wildest dreams… the two suns!”. This shows that he has developed the ability to appreciate aesthetic features of