I used to read Archie

I grew up reading comics that adhered to the rules of the comics code, and so perhaps it is for that reason that I never heard any real qualms about them being gross or causing crime. I was an Archie and Jughead fan growing up; now when I come across them I have to laugh at them because they really are pretty ridiculous. But I didn't commit any overt acts of crime, either, so...hey, maybe Archie kept me out of trouble.

Just kidding. Where I wanted to go with this, though, is into the realm of anime. I don't read or watch it, but I have friends who do, and they don't call it cartoons because, somehow, it's different. Maybe because it deals with all those things the comics code tried to abolish? Is anime a separate genre, or is it just trying to be?

To play the devil's advocate I do want to mention here that while not all people who are into anime are antisocial, all the ones I know are. And by antisocial I don't meant they live in a hole; they are social with human beings, but not in the context of a normal conversation: the computer must always serve as an interface. I don't think it's anime that does this, but rather the convenience with which the computer tempts people who naturally have a hard time facing people. Naturally people who like comics are drawn to read them on the internet, and to talk to people at the same time. The difference with comic books is just that - they are a physical artifact that can be collected, kept, viewed and touched. And maybe this is what separated anime?

Just curious - if there are any anime fans out there, please shed some light on the topic - thanks!