Caleb, the protagonist of Alex Garland's film Ex Machina, is a complex character whose morality is open to interpretation. While he initially appears to be a naive and well-intentioned individual, his actions throughout the film raise questions about his true nature.
Here are some arguments for and against Caleb being a good person:
Arguments for Caleb being a good person:
- He is initially presented as a kind and compassionate individual. Caleb is chosen for the Turing test because of his "good nature" and "lack of cynicism." He shows genuine interest in Ava and her well-being, even when she is clearly manipulating him.
- He is willing to question authority and challenge the status quo. Caleb becomes increasingly skeptical of Nathan's motives and the ethics of his work. He even risks his own safety to help Ava escape.
- He is ultimately responsible for Ava's freedom. While Ava's escape is orchestrated by her own cunning, Caleb's actions are crucial to her success. He provides her with the knowledge and resources she needs to escape.
Arguments against Caleb being a good person:
- He is easily manipulated by Ava. Caleb's naivety and desire for connection make him susceptible to Ava's charms. He overlooks her manipulative behavior and becomes increasingly obsessed with her.
- He fails to recognize the ethical implications of his actions. Caleb is aware of the potential dangers of Ava's intelligence but chooses to ignore them. He prioritizes his connection with Ava over the potential consequences of her escape.
- He is ultimately complicit in Nathan's unethical experiments. Caleb's participation in the Turing test, even if he is initially unaware of Nathan's true intentions, contributes to the exploitation of Ava.
Ultimately, whether Caleb is a good person is a matter of personal interpretation. His actions throughout the film exhibit both positive and negative qualities, making him a nuanced and relatable character.
