Experiences that share thematic or mechanical similarities with the title We Happy Few often involve dystopian settings, survival elements, and narrative-driven gameplay. These offerings frequently incorporate resource management, stealth, and crafting systems within a world grappling with social control and psychological manipulation. For example, titles focusing on societal breakdown and individual resistance, employing grim aesthetics and morally ambiguous choices, can be considered related experiences.
The prevalence of such interactive entertainment highlights an ongoing interest in exploring themes of control, conformity, and the human spirit’s resilience. These narratives allow engagement with complex social and political issues in a safe, simulated environment. Historically, interest in dystopian fiction has seen cyclical surges, often reflecting anxieties present within contemporary society, a trend influencing the design and reception of interactive entertainment.
The following sections will delve into specific examples of interactive entertainment that exhibit notable commonalities with the aforementioned title, examining their unique attributes while emphasizing shared characteristics in gameplay, setting, and narrative design. This exploration seeks to provide a broader understanding of the genre and its appeal to audiences.
1. Dystopian Societies
Dystopian settings serve as a fundamental element in interactive entertainment that echoes the themes explored in We Happy Few. These societies, characterized by oppressive control and societal decay, provide a canvas for exploring individual resilience and the consequences of unchecked power.
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Suppression of Individuality
Dystopian societies frequently enforce conformity through strict regulations, propaganda, and surveillance, diminishing individual expression and autonomy. Historical examples include totalitarian regimes where dissent was met with severe punishment. Within these interactive experiences, this facet often manifests as limitations on player agency, forcing them to navigate environments where non-conformity carries significant risks.
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Erosion of Trust
Paranoia and suspicion permeate these fictional worlds, fostered by omnipresent surveillance and manipulation. This creates a climate of fear, undermining social bonds and hindering resistance efforts. Real-world parallels exist in societies where state-sponsored surveillance chills free speech and association. Within the context of such interactive experiences, this can translate to choices where the player must decide who to trust and how to navigate treacherous social landscapes.
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Environmental Decay
Many dystopian narratives depict environments ravaged by pollution, resource depletion, or deliberate destruction, reflecting the unsustainable practices and disregard for human well-being that often accompany authoritarian rule. Examples can be found in post-industrial societies grappling with the consequences of environmental negligence. Interactive entertainment utilizes this aspect to visually represent the decline of society and the desperation of its inhabitants, often requiring the player to scavenge for resources in hostile and degraded landscapes.
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Control Through Technology
Advanced technology is often wielded as a tool of oppression, used for surveillance, manipulation, and the enforcement of social control. Examples can be seen in debates surrounding facial recognition technology and its potential for misuse. In interactive narratives, this can manifest as challenges involving hacking, evading surveillance systems, or manipulating technology to subvert the ruling power.
These elements, intrinsic to dystopian settings, contribute significantly to the immersive and thought-provoking nature of experiences that resonate with We Happy Few. The exploration of these themes invites players to confront uncomfortable truths about power, control, and the enduring human capacity for resistance. These types of interactive experiences invite comparisons to narratives such as 1984 and Brave New World, which set standards for this genre in the literary space.
2. Oppressive control
Oppressive control, a thematic pillar, frequently manifests in interactive entertainment with similarities to We Happy Few. This element permeates the narrative, gameplay mechanics, and overall atmosphere, shaping the player’s experience and underscoring the struggle against authoritarian systems.
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Forced Conformity and Propaganda
Oppressive regimes often demand strict adherence to specific ideologies and behaviors, using propaganda to manipulate public perception and suppress dissent. Historical examples include state-controlled media in totalitarian states. In the context of similar interactive experiences, this is evident through mandatory drug use, restrictive clothing, and the constant threat of punishment for deviating from accepted norms. This aspect can be seen in the game Papers, Please, which compels the player to enforce stringent border controls.
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Surveillance and Data Collection
Ubiquitous surveillance systems monitor citizens’ activities, creating a climate of fear and discouraging non-conformity. The extensive data collection practices of certain contemporary governments mirror this concept. In related interactive narratives, players frequently navigate environments riddled with cameras, informants, and security checkpoints, forcing them to carefully manage their actions and avoid detection. The Watch Dogs series offers an example of this in gameplay mechanics, emphasizing the strategic use of surveillance to challenge oppressive systems.
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Restriction of Information and Education
Controlling access to information and distorting historical narratives are common tactics employed by oppressive regimes to maintain power. This is demonstrated in the manipulation of educational materials and censorship of dissenting voices. In interactive entertainment, players may encounter censored historical records, manipulated media outlets, and controlled educational institutions, highlighting the regime’s efforts to control the population’s understanding of reality. This element can be seen in titles like The Last of Us, where remnants of manipulated historical narratives shape the player’s understanding of the pre-apocalyptic world.
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Use of Force and Violence
Oppressive regimes often resort to physical violence and intimidation to silence opposition and enforce compliance. Examples range from police brutality to systematic persecution of minority groups. In similar interactive experiences, this manifests through heavily armed security forces, brutal interrogation techniques, and the threat of arbitrary arrest and imprisonment. This aspect is prevalent in games like Metro Exodus, where survival depends on evading heavily armed patrols in a post-apocalyptic society ruled by factions employing violence to maintain control.
These facets of oppressive control collectively contribute to the immersive and unsettling nature of titles mirroring aspects of We Happy Few. The systematic implementation of these tactics underscores the profound impact of authoritarianism on individual lives and societal structures. The exploration of these themes provides a framework to discuss the importance of civil liberties and resistance against oppressive regimes. Similar considerations can be drawn when examining narratives such as V for Vendetta or The Handmaid’s Tale.
3. Psychological Manipulation
Psychological manipulation serves as a central thematic component in interactive entertainment akin to We Happy Few. This element is woven into the narrative structure and gameplay, impacting player choices and shaping the overall experience within the game world.
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Gaslighting and Reality Distortion
Gaslighting, a form of manipulation, involves distorting an individual’s perception of reality to induce self-doubt and dependence on the manipulator. Historically, this tactic has been used in political campaigns to erode public trust in institutions. In interactive entertainment, this translates to scenarios where characters or the environment subtly alter facts or present false information, leading the player to question their understanding of the game world. This could involve altering historical narratives, denying the player’s previous experiences, or creating illusory environments. For example, a game might subtly change environmental details each time the player revisits a location, causing confusion and uncertainty.
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Emotional Exploitation and Guilt-Tripping
Manipulators often exploit the emotions of others, using guilt, shame, or fear to control their actions. Examples can be found in manipulative advertising campaigns designed to evoke specific emotional responses. In interactive narratives, this can manifest as characters who prey on the player’s empathy or guilt, leveraging their personal vulnerabilities to achieve specific goals. This can involve placing the player in moral dilemmas where any choice leads to negative consequences or using emotional appeals to persuade the player to take actions against their better judgment. These mechanics frequently surface in decision-based narratives, as seen in titles like This War of Mine.
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Divide and Conquer Tactics
Creating divisions within groups and fostering distrust is a common manipulation technique used to weaken opposition and consolidate power. This strategy has been employed in political contexts to incite conflict and maintain dominance. In the sphere of similar interactive games, this could appear as scenarios where characters are encouraged to betray each other, or where the player is forced to choose between conflicting factions with no clear moral high ground. An example might be forcing a choice between siding with different factions within a settlement, knowing that supporting one will inevitably lead to the demise of the other.
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Reward and Punishment Systems (Behavioral Conditioning)
Manipulators often utilize reward and punishment systems to shape behavior and reinforce desired actions. This mirrors principles of behavioral psychology, used in various fields from animal training to advertising. In interactive entertainment, this translates to systems where specific actions are rewarded with resources, privileges, or narrative progression, while other actions are penalized. A game might reward players for adhering to specific social norms within a manipulated environment, while punishing deviations from these norms through loss of resources or reputation. The gameplay of We Happy Few, with its emphasis on drug use to maintain social acceptance, directly demonstrates such a system.
The integration of these facets of psychological manipulation amplifies the immersive and thought-provoking aspects of entertainment experiences that echo We Happy Few. The systematic implementation of these strategies underlines the profound impact of manipulation on individual lives and societal structures. Exploring these thematic elements allows for a dialogue on the importance of critical thinking and awareness in countering manipulative tactics. The effects of such manipulations can be linked with literature and film narratives such as A Clockwork Orange and The Truman Show.
4. Survival mechanics
Survival mechanics are intrinsic to the design of interactive experiences resembling We Happy Few. These systems, often involving resource management, crafting, and maintaining vital signs, create a palpable sense of vulnerability and urgency that significantly contributes to the overall thematic resonance. The cause-and-effect relationship is direct: oppressive environments necessitate careful resource allocation and strategic decision-making for continued existence. Neglecting hunger, thirst, or exposure leads to debilitating consequences, mirroring real-world struggles for survival in resource-scarce environments. Without these mechanics, the narrative’s impact diminishes, becoming a mere observation rather than an active participation in a desperate struggle.
Consider the practical application: We Happy Few and similar interactive experiences integrate survival elements to amplify the commentary on social stratification and the desperation caused by systemic inequality. The need to scavenge for food and craft rudimentary tools reinforces the player’s awareness of the character’s precarious position within the game’s societal hierarchy. This contrasts with idealized, escapist fantasies; instead, these mechanics force players to confront the harsh realities of a dystopian setting. Furthermore, these mechanics can significantly impact gameplay strategies. Choosing between scarce resources, such as medication or food, can lead to branching narrative paths. This creates emergent storytelling based on the player’s strategic approach to survival within the established oppressive environment.
In summary, survival mechanics are not merely ancillary features but integral components that deepen the thematic resonance of interactive entertainment analogous to We Happy Few. By simulating the challenges of existing within a harsh, oppressive environment, these systems enhance player engagement and contribute to a more profound understanding of the narrative’s social commentary. The challenge lies in balancing realism with engaging gameplay, avoiding frustrating mechanics that detract from the overall experience. The successful integration of these elements transforms the interactive experience into a powerful reflection on human resilience and the struggle against adversity, linking the title to wider survival themes explored in media such as The Road or Children of Men.
5. Resource Management
Resource management is a critical gameplay element that significantly shapes the player experience in interactive entertainment resembling We Happy Few. This element forces players to make strategic choices regarding the acquisition, allocation, and utilization of limited supplies, directly impacting their ability to survive and progress within the game’s narrative. A failure to effectively manage resources in such experiences often results in negative consequences, such as decreased character stats, increased vulnerability to environmental hazards, or even death. Thus, successful resource management is not merely a peripheral activity but a core requirement for navigating the oppressive environments often depicted. Consider the impact of rationing during wartime; mismanagement of resources, either through corruption or incompetence, directly affects the civilian population’s ability to survive. This real-world consequence mirrors the in-game dynamics of resource-driven interactive experiences.
Practical application of understanding resource management within such interactive experiences extends to optimizing gameplay strategies. Players who recognize the scarcity of specific resources, such as medicinal supplies or food, are more likely to prioritize exploration, crafting, and strategic combat encounters. They learn to leverage their knowledge of the game’s systems to maximize their efficiency in acquiring and utilizing these resources. Furthermore, the implementation of resource management systems frequently serves as a narrative tool. Scarcity can reinforce the themes of social inequality and desperation, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals living under oppressive regimes. For instance, a game may depict an uneven distribution of resources, with the ruling class enjoying abundance while the general population struggles to survive. This disparity serves to underscore the injustices inherent in the game world. Consider the game Frostpunk which provides resource management elements which lead to the making of decisions that can impact the survival rate of the society you manage.
In summary, resource management systems are integral components that enhance both the gameplay and narrative depth of interactive entertainment similar to We Happy Few. These systems emphasize the struggle for survival, force strategic decision-making, and provide a framework for exploring complex social and political themes. The challenge lies in creating a resource management system that is both engaging and thematically relevant, avoiding frustrating mechanics that detract from the overall experience. A well-implemented system transforms the interactive experience into a powerful reflection on the challenges of survival and the consequences of social inequality. The integration of these systems mirrors broader themes of scarcity and resilience observed in historical and contemporary societies, offering players a valuable opportunity to engage with these issues in a meaningful and interactive way.
6. Moral ambiguity
Moral ambiguity is a cornerstone of interactive entertainment experiences sharing thematic elements with We Happy Few. The implementation of morally gray choices necessitates players to confront dilemmas without clear-cut resolutions. This complexity challenges conventional notions of right and wrong, compelling consideration of the potential ramifications of decisions within a fictional context. A consequence of presenting such choices is increased player engagement; the burden of decision-making fosters a deeper connection to the narrative and its characters. Historically, moral ambiguity has been employed in literature and film to explore complex ethical issues and challenge societal norms. The practical application of moral ambiguity in such games underscores the nuanced nature of ethical decision-making within oppressive systems.
Consider how This War of Mine employs moral ambiguity. The game compels players to make difficult choices regarding resource allocation and interpersonal interactions within a war-torn city. Sacrificing the well-being of one character to ensure the survival of the group becomes a common, albeit morally questionable, strategy. Similarly, in games such as The Walking Dead, the player is consistently presented with scenarios where there are no ideal outcomes, forcing decisions based on the least detrimental course of action. This mirroring of real-world dilemmas, where absolute ethical certainty is often unattainable, enhances the immersive quality and thematic resonance of such interactive entertainment. The importance of this component is evident in how it shapes player behavior; individuals are forced to weigh the potential benefits against the ethical costs, resulting in a more nuanced and individualized narrative experience.
In summary, moral ambiguity enriches the narrative depth and gameplay experience of interactive entertainment like We Happy Few. The emphasis on morally gray choices necessitates critical thinking and fosters deeper engagement with the narrative, mirroring the complexities of real-world ethical dilemmas. The challenge lies in effectively presenting these choices in a manner that is both engaging and thought-provoking, avoiding simplistic or contrived scenarios. The integration of moral ambiguity transforms the interactive experience into a potent exploration of human behavior under duress and the complexities of ethical decision-making, linking themes often found in literary works such as Crime and Punishment or Lord of the Flies.
7. Narrative focus
Narrative focus is a central design element in interactive entertainment sharing commonalities with We Happy Few. This emphasis dictates how the game’s story unfolds, influences player agency, and shapes the overall thematic resonance. In such experiences, the narrative is not merely a backdrop but a driving force, guiding player actions and providing context for gameplay mechanics. Games prioritizing narrative often employ compelling characters, intricate plotlines, and meaningful choices that impact the story’s progression. The cause-and-effect relationship between narrative focus and player engagement is direct: a well-crafted narrative can significantly enhance the player’s investment in the game world and its inhabitants. The importance of narrative focus becomes evident when considering player motivation; a compelling story provides a reason to engage with the game’s systems, explore its environments, and overcome its challenges. Historical examples can be drawn from the evolution of the role-playing game genre, where narrative depth has consistently been a key factor in determining a title’s success and lasting impact. This contrasts with gameplay-centric titles where narrative serves primarily as a functional framework for action.
The practical application of understanding narrative focus extends to evaluating the effectiveness of interactive entertainment experiences. Titles with a strong narrative core often elicit greater emotional responses and encourage replayability. Meaningful choices presented within the narrative framework can lead to branching storylines, allowing players to explore different perspectives and outcomes. Furthermore, narrative focus can be utilized to explore complex social and political themes. Games like Disco Elysium demonstrates this which directly focuses on character and narrative progression to immerse the player in the world through text-based storytelling, thereby enhancing player investment. This allows these interactive entertainment examples to engage with issues that can resonate with audiences outside of pure entertainment. Conversely, a weak or poorly executed narrative can detract from the overall experience, undermining the impact of otherwise compelling gameplay mechanics. Storytelling is an established discipline, applying structural concepts found in literature and film into the games design space.
In summary, narrative focus is an essential element that profoundly influences the player experience in interactive entertainment analogous to We Happy Few. By prioritizing storytelling, developers can create games that are not only entertaining but also thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. The challenge lies in crafting narratives that are both engaging and thematically relevant, avoiding contrived plotlines or underdeveloped characters. The successful integration of narrative focus transforms the interactive experience into a meaningful exploration of human nature and the complexities of the world. This allows for parallels with established narrative frameworks across media, such as those used in television series like Black Mirror or in literary works such as The Metamorphosis.
8. Social commentary
Interactive entertainment akin to We Happy Few frequently incorporates social commentary as a core element, providing a platform for exploring societal issues through gameplay and narrative. This commentary often manifests as critiques of authoritarianism, class stratification, and the dangers of conformity. The cause-and-effect relationship is direct: the game’s dystopian setting and oppressive mechanics serve to highlight the negative consequences of these societal ills. The importance of social commentary stems from its capacity to engage players in critical reflection on real-world issues, prompting consideration of ethical dilemmas and potential solutions. For example, the game’s reliance on forced happiness through drug use can be interpreted as a commentary on the superficiality of manufactured contentment and the suppression of individual emotions. This approach aligns with the broader tradition of dystopian fiction, which has historically been utilized to critique contemporary social and political trends.
The practical significance of understanding social commentary within these games lies in its ability to enrich the player’s experience. By recognizing the underlying messages and critiques, players can engage with the game on a deeper level, moving beyond simple entertainment to consider the social implications of their actions and choices. Furthermore, social commentary in games can serve as a catalyst for broader discussions about societal issues. The popularity of titles like Papers, Please, which satirizes bureaucratic indifference and the dehumanization of individuals within oppressive systems, demonstrates the potential for games to spark meaningful conversations about important topics. In We Happy Few, the stark contrast between the opulent lifestyle of the ruling class and the squalor experienced by the impoverished serves as a commentary on economic inequality. The strategic allocation of resources and the desperate measures undertaken to survive further underscore this theme, prompting players to consider the human cost of unchecked capitalism and social stratification.
In summary, social commentary functions as a crucial component in interactive entertainment analogous to We Happy Few. By utilizing gameplay and narrative to critique societal issues, these games encourage critical thinking and promote a deeper understanding of complex social and political dynamics. The challenge lies in effectively integrating social commentary without resorting to heavy-handed messaging or sacrificing the entertainment value of the experience. A well-executed approach can transform the interactive entertainment experience into a powerful tool for social awareness and critical discourse. The integration allows for a link to the broader themes explored in historical and contemporary political or social science narratives.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following addresses common inquiries regarding interactive entertainment that share thematic and mechanical resemblances with We Happy Few.
Question 1: What defines interactive entertainment analogous to We Happy Few?
Titles are characterized by dystopian settings, narratives focusing on societal control, and gameplay incorporating survival mechanics, psychological manipulation, and moral ambiguity. These elements combine to create experiences that explore themes of conformity, resistance, and the human cost of oppressive regimes.
Question 2: Which gameplay mechanics are frequently observed in these interactive experiences?
Resource management, crafting, stealth, and combat are common mechanics. Players are often required to scavenge for supplies, create tools and weapons, and navigate treacherous environments while evading or confronting hostile forces. The emphasis on these mechanics underscores the struggle for survival within the game’s oppressive world.
Question 3: What thematic elements are typically explored in interactive experiences related to We Happy Few?
Themes of oppressive control, psychological manipulation, social inequality, and the suppression of individuality are central. These themes are often explored through narrative choices, character interactions, and the overall design of the game world, prompting reflection on real-world societal issues.
Question 4: How significant is the narrative in shaping the player experience within these types of games?
The narrative plays a crucial role, guiding player actions and providing context for gameplay mechanics. A well-crafted narrative can enhance player immersion, foster emotional investment, and encourage exploration of the game’s themes. Meaningful choices presented within the narrative framework often lead to branching storylines and multiple endings.
Question 5: What distinguishes these experiences from other interactive entertainment genres?
The focus on dystopian settings, social commentary, and morally ambiguous choices differentiates these titles from more conventional action or adventure games. The emphasis on survival mechanics and resource management further distinguishes them from narrative-driven experiences that prioritize plot over gameplay. The combination of these elements creates a unique and often thought-provoking interactive experience.
Question 6: Is prior knowledge of the title We Happy Few required to appreciate similar interactive experiences?
No. While familiarity with We Happy Few may provide a point of reference, it is not essential. The thematic and mechanical elements shared by these experiences are often self-contained within each individual title, allowing players to engage with them independently.
In conclusion, interactive entertainment resembling We Happy Few provides a compelling platform for exploring complex social and political themes through engaging gameplay and narrative. The combination of dystopian settings, survival mechanics, and morally ambiguous choices creates experiences that are both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The subsequent section will analyze specific examples of such interactive experiences, examining their individual strengths and weaknesses while highlighting the commonalities that unite them within this genre.
Navigating Interactive Experiences Similar to We Happy Few
The following tips provide guidance for engaging with interactive entertainment that shares thematic and mechanical commonalities with We Happy Few. Successful navigation requires strategic resource management, nuanced decision-making, and a critical understanding of the game’s underlying social commentary.
Tip 1: Master Resource Allocation: Effective resource allocation is essential for survival. Prioritize essential needs, such as food, water, and medicine, while minimizing unnecessary expenditure. Scavenge strategically and identify reliable sources of supplies to maintain a sustainable balance.
Tip 2: Understand Social Dynamics: Observe and adapt to the social norms and hierarchies of the game world. Recognize the power structures and the potential consequences of non-conformity. Utilize social interactions to gather information, forge alliances, and manipulate situations to one’s advantage.
Tip 3: Embrace Stealth and Evasion: When facing overwhelming opposition, prioritize stealth and evasion over direct confrontation. Utilize the environment to one’s advantage, employing cover, distractions, and deception to avoid detection. Conserve resources and minimize risk by choosing stealthy approaches whenever possible.
Tip 4: Exploit Crafting and Customization: Maximize the utility of available resources by engaging in crafting and customization. Create tools, weapons, and consumables that enhance survival and combat capabilities. Experiment with different crafting recipes and upgrade options to optimize one’s equipment.
Tip 5: Evaluate Moral Implications: Engage critically with the game’s narrative and consider the moral implications of one’s choices. Recognize that decisions often involve difficult trade-offs and that there may be no clear-cut solutions. Analyze the potential consequences of one’s actions and strive to minimize harm to oneself and others.
Tip 6: Analyze the Environment: Pay close attention to the environment. These types of games often utilize world-building and background imagery to tell stories and convey a certain atmosphere, often rich in symbolism and narrative clues.
Tip 7: Accept Ambiguity: Often, these games have endings that are intentionally ambiguous. The answers can be subjective, or require players to fill in the blanks using clues found in the world. Acceptance is key to full enjoyment.
Successfully engaging with these interactive experiences hinges on a blend of strategic thinking, adaptability, and a willingness to confront morally ambiguous situations. Mastering resource management, understanding social dynamics, and embracing stealth are crucial for survival, while thoughtful consideration of ethical implications enhances the overall narrative experience.
These guidelines provide a foundation for navigating the complexities of interactive entertainment similar to We Happy Few. The subsequent sections will delve into specific examples of these experiences, offering detailed analyses of their gameplay mechanics, narrative structures, and thematic elements.
Games Like We Happy Few
The preceding analysis has explored the characteristics that define interactive entertainment sharing qualities with We Happy Few. Key aspects include dystopian settings, oppressive control mechanisms, psychological manipulation, survival-oriented gameplay, morally ambiguous choices, and a prominent narrative focus. These elements collectively contribute to experiences that offer both entertainment and social commentary, encouraging reflection on the human condition within challenging circumstances.
Continued exploration and critical analysis of these interactive experiences are warranted. By examining the narrative structures, gameplay mechanics, and thematic undertones present in these titles, a greater appreciation for the potential of games as a medium for social commentary and artistic expression can be achieved. Further research may reveal additional sub-genres and shared characteristics, enriching understanding of this evolving segment of the interactive entertainment landscape. This ongoing engagement allows for consideration of the narratives presented and their significance in reflecting, and potentially influencing, societal perspectives.
