The Ethical Dilemma of the Eternals: When Not to Interfere with Human Issues

When Sersi was asked to explain why the Eternals, powerful beings created by the Celestials to protect humanity, did not assist in the fight against Thanos, she simply stated that they were told not to get involved in human issues. This response ties into the core principles and directives of the Eternals' mission and purpose. Let's delve deeper into why this stance makes sense within the context of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

Celestial Directive

The Eternals' primary role was to combat Deviants, and they were strictly bound by the Celestials' directive to remain uninvolved in human matters unless directly related to their mission. Thanos, while undoubtedly a major threat to the universe, was not considered a Deviant in the traditional sense. He was a Titan and his actions were seen as part of a larger cosmic conflict, rather than a direct attack on humanity.

Philosophical Stance

The Eternals' non-interventionist philosophy is rooted in their belief that humanity should be allowed to evolve and face its challenges without external interference. This stance reflects a deeper theme in the MCU about the balance of power and the potential consequences of intervention. By choosing not to get involved, the Eternals adhere to their ethical principles and respect the autonomy of human civilization.

Deviant Threat vs. Cosmic Threat

While Thanos' threat was vast, spanning the entire universe, the Eternals were specifically focused on Deviant threats. They did not classify Thanos as a Deviant, and therefore, felt justified in their inaction. Their singular focus on Deviants aligns with their core directive and mission.

Internal Conflict

The Eternals themselves had differing views on this directive. Some, like Sersi, were more sympathetic to humanity's plight and questioned the Celestials' orders. This internal conflict adds a layer of complexity to their characters and motivations, highlighting the moral and ethical dilemmas that such powerful beings face.

In summary, Sersi's explanation reflects the Eternals' adherence to their mission, their philosophical beliefs about intervention, and the specific nature of the threat posed by Thanos, which did not align with their defined role. This choice in narrative serves to explore themes of responsibility and the moral implications of power.

Understanding the reasons behind the Eternals' inaction provides insight into the complexities of their existence and the broader themes of the MCU. Whether you're a fan of the series or a casual viewer, this aspect adds an interesting layer to the story, making it more engaging and thought-provoking.