Dr. Strangelove and Human Imperfection
The satirical nature of the film may lead people to believe that its intent is to mock the war hawks and pro-military leaders, but it can be argued that Kubrick was meaning to establish an comparison between man and machine to show the fallibility of human kind. Throughout the film the machines were dependable, and were not at fault for any part of the catastrophe that was unleashed. Anytime there were problems or flaws, it was always the part of people. The technology worked just as it should, but the entire national defense plan left the final responsibility for success in the hands of an imperfect master- people. Kubrick showed the “lovable lunatics,” as stated by Burgess, to be doing what they believed was right, whether it helped or hindered their intended cause. General Ripper believed he was doing the just thing by starting an offensive against Russia, without knowing he was triggering the destruction of mankind. It was a clear demonstration of the fallacy of mankind, fighting through life on the basis of his beliefs and convictions, regardless of whether they are true or right. Buck Turgidson was convinced that the “Commies” were trying to trick him, and refused to cooperate in an attempt to save the world. Every character is acting on their convictions with the best intentions, but end up going nowhere. The movie shows us that people are a faulty machine, capable of mistakes and misguided passion, but “also capable of hope and courage” (Burgess). In the end, the only plan that is carried out perfectly, and without the obstacles human emotion or decision, is the ultimate destruction of the world by the machine.
Alex Schreiner