Ghost in the Shell (manga)

Ghost in the Shell is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Masamune Shirow. It was first serialized in Kodansha's Young Magazine from April 1989 to November 1990 and later compiled into a single tankōbon volume. The manga explores themes of transhumanism, artificial intelligence, and the nature of consciousness in a technologically advanced cyberpunk setting.

The story follows Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg operative working for Public Security Section 9, a counter-cybercrime unit within the Japanese government. Section 9 investigates a variety of cybernetic crimes, including hacking, terrorism, and political corruption. Major Kusanagi and her team grapple with philosophical questions regarding identity, individuality, and the boundaries between humanity and technology as they confront increasingly sophisticated adversaries.

The Ghost in the Shell manga is known for its complex plot, philosophical depth, and detailed artwork. Shirow's use of technical diagrams and annotations provides a layer of realism to the futuristic setting. The manga's impact on subsequent science fiction works is significant, influencing films, television series, and video games. The manga was followed by several sequels and adaptations, most notably the 1995 animated film directed by Mamoru Oshii, which further popularized the franchise internationally. The manga differs in plot and thematic emphasis from later adaptations.