Paid In Full as a State Of Nature

When learning about the state of nature from various political philosophers, I couldn't help but think about areas in American where a state of nature actually exists. It may not be as applicable today, but during the 80's, many regions of the country were dominated by the drug trade. In 2002, Paid In Full was released, a movie that chronicled the 80's Harlem empire created by cocaine kingpins AZ, Rich Porter, and Alpo. The film sheds light on the inner-city struggle experienced and the state of nature that is created through the ideals of self-preservation from gangs and drugs.

In the beginning of the film, we are introduced to AZ, a skinny kid working in a dry cleaner, barely making any money. AZ is known by most, but for the wrong reasons. He is constantly the subject of everyone's jokes, due to his honest living and lackluster wardrobe. With his weird mannerisms and inability to really express himself, AZ is Rousseau's savage. He is content with his life, though it does not contain any luxuries.

AZ's best friend, Rich Porter (consistently referred to as "Money Makin' Mitch), leads a completely different life. Rich is a drug dealer, possibly the one of the most notorious in the city. Rich is all about his style, and never fails to be flashy (motorcycles, cars, jewelry, etc). Rich wants power, and he can't stop under any circumstances. He is Hobbes' selfish human.

Day after day, we see Rich tease AZ, and after stumbling upon a small amount of cocaine (and after seeing his best friend go to prison over a murder) AZ decides his life needs a change. He begins to sell the drug, starting very small but quickly moving up in the city. After a small taste of the luxuries from the drug game, and how much easier it was than working in dry cleaning store, AZ soon becomes the new kingpin of Harlem. After Rich's release from prison, he joins AZ, along with Alpo (a friend made in prison) and they become a fearsome trio. We see Hobbes state of nature reoccur time and time again as Alpo acts with no hesitation to kill and embarrass people, for gain, safety, and reputation. The film ends in tragic consequences for the three men, which I won't go into detail on incase you wish to view the movie (which I highly recommend). Closer to the end of the film, we see a small monologue from Rich, which explains his love for the game of hustling and how he can't stop. It serves as a microcosm to the entire idea of a state of nature described by Hobbes.

Paid In Full gave small insight to the harsh realities of the gang lifestyle in America. These individuals are creating their own state of nature, ruled by greed and thirst for attention. People can try to avoid the lifestyle, and be content with living on the outside of the bubble, but eventually they are pulled in regardless of choice.