Dandadan's titular concept could be based on a real-life paradox

Modified Dec 25, 2024 18:00 GMT

The Dandadan manga hooks readers with its mix of supernatural mayhem, alien encounters, and thrilling battles. However, according to a new theory by Reddit user @Boku_no_Rico, the series may be tied to a real-world mystery: the Fermi Paradox. This paradox asks why humans haven’t encountered aliens despite the vastness of the universe. In the series, Earth's supernatural forces act as a shield, stopping alien contact.

This theory adds depth to the story and connects to Count Saint-Germain's plans to possibly use this "shield" as a weapon. By turning the Fermi Paradox into a tool, the series raises the stakes, blending science and chaos in a way that intrigues and excites readers alike.

The Fermi Paradox and its possible role in Dandadan

Saint-Germain as shown in the manga (Image via Shueisha)

The Fermi Paradox highlights the contradiction between the high chance of extraterrestrial civilizations existing and the lack of evidence or contact with them. In Dandadan, this paradox is directly mentioned, explaining that Earth is "protected" by supernatural phenomena that make it inaccessible to alien forces. This "protection" is why extraterrestrial life struggles to connect with Earth despite its richness in paranormal activity and life forms.

Count Saint-Germain’s ambitions seem focused on breaking this balance. While his exact motivations are unclear, his actions suggest a desire to use the supernatural, not just for personal gain but to expand his influence across the galaxy.

Expand Tweet

His dealings with alien species like the Kur hint at existing galactic ties, but these relationships appear more like business deals. He doesn’t seem to have the dominance needed to take what he wants outright.

The theory speculates that "Dandadan" could be a tool or state of being that turns the Fermi Paradox into a weapon. By amplifying the supernatural "shield" protecting Earth, Saint-Germain could become an entity so full of paranormal energy that no alien species could interact with him. This would not only protect him but also let him conquer alien civilizations, fulfilling his goal of collecting paranormal powers on an intergalactic scale.

The protagonists’ role in creating "Dandadan"

Okarun and Momo as shown in the anime (Image via Science SARU)

An important part of this theory is that Okarun and Momo's unique powers and abilities might be the "ingredients" needed to create the tool. Each character in the main group has abilities tied to the paranormal, from psychokinesis to Yokai powers. These abilities may be pieces of the larger concept Saint-Germain wants to weaponize.

Saint-Germain’s focus on the protagonists could come from this idea. By targeting them, he might be trying to either steal their powers or manipulate them into unknowingly activating the mechanism. This would explain why he interacts with them and why he is affiliated with Kur and other alien beings. He is likely gathering the necessary tools to achieve his ultimate goal.

A snapshot of a manga panel (Image via Shueisha)

If "Dandadan" really is a weaponized form of the Fermi Paradox, it would raise the stakes of the protagonists' battle and push the story into a cosmic scale. Turning the Fermi Paradox into a narrative device adds a layer of intellectual intrigue to the manga’s already exciting and chaotic storyline.

Final thoughts

A snapshot of Okarun from the anime (Image via Science SARU)

The anime and manga series turns a scientific idea into an exciting story concept by connecting the Fermi Paradox with supernatural elements. The idea of a weaponized paradox tied to Earth’s mystical shield adds depth to the plot. This mix of science and the paranormal makes it a truly unique and engaging manga.

Related links:

Edited by Shreya Das