I think this series is the apex of the GitS anime. We get to see the humanity of the characters even more, starting from Motoko, Paz and Saito. Also the themes of the series are very similar to world events and if one is familiar with Japan's history you might conclude that if Gouda's plan will succeed, Japan will be thrust into militarism again. Fanaticsm with Kuze is greatly compared to religious fanaticism we see in the world today.

Another thing I liked with the 2nd season is how hard and difficult Motoko's life was. Being cyborized at 6 and losing her "first love" only to find him in a very different circumstance. Tragic, if I may sum it up in a word.

A nit pick again, sometimes Motoko looks to cartoonish in some episodes. Her eyes are too big, face and mouth too small and her breast are almost close to popping out! The first season portrays her more realistically though I really disliked the leotard. LOL