# The infamous JoJo thought experiment - Michael Vazquez and Sarah Stroud Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BT93bRX2t68 Recap page: https://rapidrecap.app/video/BT93bRX2t68 Generated: 2026-01-20T17:07:14.684+00:00 --- ## Quick Overview The video argues that while external factors like upbringing influence a person's moral character, as demonstrated by the thought experiment of the tyrannical King JoJo and his morally distinct twin sister Joja, individuals ultimately retain responsibility for their actions according to philosopher Susan Wolf's "Deep Self Theory," meaning even JoJo is fully responsible for his cruelty despite his adverse environment. **Key Points:** - The video uses the thought experiment of a tyrannical King JoJo, raised in an environment of cruelty with executioners and propaganda, to question moral responsibility. - JoJo's twin sister, Joja, raised in the same environment, develops opposing values (symbolized by a heart instead of a skull) and judges JoJo's tyranny as wrong. - Philosophers like Gary Watson and Harry Frankfurt suggest that moral responsibility stems from one's "deep self"—actions reflecting one's deepest values and commitments. - Susan Wolf's "Deep Self Theory" posits that individuals are morally responsible for actions that flow from their deep self, even if that self was shaped by external factors. - Incompatibility theorists argue that if everything is predetermined by environment or biology, no one is truly morally responsible, suggesting JoJo is less responsible. - The conclusion rejects the incompatibility argument: JoJo is deemed fully responsible for his cruelty because his actions still reflect his deep self, regardless of his unfortunate upbringing. - The narrative contrasts JoJo (skull symbol, tyranny) with Joja (heart symbol, moral compass) to illustrate the dichotomy between actions stemming from corrupted versus principled values. ![Screenshot at 0:09: The ruthless dictator King JoJo is depicted sitting on a throne flanked by executioners, illustrating the oppressive environment that shapes his character.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/BT93bRX2t68/00-00-09.jpg) **Context:** This TED-Ed video explores complex philosophical questions surrounding moral responsibility, specifically contrasting the views of incompatibilists (who believe free will is incompatible with determinism) and compatibilists (who argue responsibility can exist even if actions are determined). The central narrative device is the story of King JoJo, a ruthless dictator raised in an oppressive environment, and his morally upright twin sister, Joja, setting up a debate around whether environmental factors excuse terrible actions. ## Detailed Analysis The video begins by introducing the ethical dilemma of responsibility through the story of JoJo, a ruthless dictator ruling with an iron fist, surrounded by subjects too terrified to complain. JoJo's upbringing is shown to be steeped in violence and unquestioning obedience. The narrative then introduces his twin sister, Joja, who, despite sharing the same environment, develops a strong moral compass, valuing kindness (symbolized by a heart) and condemning JoJo's cruelty (symbolized by a skull). Philosophers Gary Watson and Harry Frankfurt are introduced, supporting the idea that moral responsibility depends on whether actions flow from one's "deep self"—the core values one identifies with. Susan Wolf's "Deep Self Theory" is presented, suggesting that if a person's actions reflect their deepest held values, they are responsible, even if those values were formed by external influences like JoJo's upbringing. In contrast, incompatibilists argue that if all actions are predetermined by factors like environment or biology, no one is truly morally responsible. The video ultimately sides with Wolf, concluding that JoJo is still fully responsible because his cruel actions stem from his deep self, whereas someone raised differently (like Joja) would have developed different values and acted morally right. The final message challenges the viewer to decide where responsibility ultimately lies. ### The Dictator's Dilemma - King JoJo rules ruthlessly, inspiring terror and obedience from his subjects - His twin sister, Joja, grows up with opposing values (heart vs. skull), recognizing JoJo's rule as unjust ### Philosophical Standpoints - Gary Watson and Harry Frankfurt support Deep Self Theory, arguing responsibility rests on actions reflecting one's core values - Incompatibilists argue that environmental determinism negates responsibility ### Susan Wolf's Deep Self Theory - Actions are morally responsible if they stem from one's deepest values, even if those values were externally influenced - JoJo's actions reflect his deep self, making him responsible ### Conclusion on Responsibility - JoJo is fully responsible for his cruelty because his actions reflect his deep self, even though his upbringing was atypical and harmful - The final question is posed to the viewer: who determines moral responsibility? ![Screenshot at 0:09: The ruthless dictator King JoJo is depicted sitting on a throne flanked by executioners, illustrating the oppressive environment that shapes his character.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/BT93bRX2t68/00-00-09.jpg) ![Screenshot at 0:44: Young JoJo, sitting alone in the oppressive environment, looks up, symbolizing his early immersion in the tyrannical atmosphere.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/BT93bRX2t68/00-00-44.jpg) ![Screenshot at 1:02: The conflict is summarized, stating that JoJo's actions are wrong, contrasting with the argument that external factors reduce responsibility.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/BT93bRX2t68/00-01-02.jpg) ![Screenshot at 1:23: Philosophers Gary Watson and Harry Frankfurt are introduced, suggesting 'YES' to the idea that people are responsible for actions stemming from their true self.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/BT93bRX2t68/00-01-23.jpg) ![Screenshot at 3:00: A scale balances 'Wolf's Logic' against 'Reason,' with JoJo in the center, indicating the core philosophical conflict over responsibility.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/BT93bRX2t68/00-03-00.jpg)