Why Didn't Thanos Use the Mind Stone on Vision in 'Infinity War'?

Theoretical Analysis: While technology and science fiction offer a rich sandbox for endless possibilities, certain plot points within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), specifically in 'Infinity War', leave some questions unanswered.

The Reason Behind Thanos's Choices

Those familiar with the plot will recall that the Mind Stone was taken from Vision's head by Thanos after he used the Time Stone to "undo" Wanda's destruction of the Mind Stone and Vision himself. The reasoning behind Thanos not using the Mind Stone on Vision directly can be summarized as follows:

Chronological Order and Timing

Thanos did not have the Mind Stone until he excavated it from Vision's head. This retrieval happened after Thanos utilized the Time Stone to reverse the destruction of both the Mind Stone and Vision. By the time Thanos was ready to deal with Vision, he was already dead, having been killed by the Mind Stone's extraction.

Vision's Condition

Believe it or not, Vision was already in a weakened state when Thanos arrived. He had been repeatedly stabbed by Corvus Glaive, leaving him highly vulnerable and unable to effectively use his abilities. Unlike Ultron, Vision did not fully understand or control the Mind Stone as he was still learning and evolving.

Partial Understanding and Control

Ultron, on the other hand, possessed a more complete understanding of the Mind Stone, having honed his abilities over time. The Mind Stone's power is arguably immense, but its full utilization requires a deep and nuanced understanding, something that even Vision was not capable of at the time.

Thanos's Invulnerability

Moreover, Thanos was already invulnerable due to his possession of the five Infinity Stones. Any attempt to use the Mind Stone on Thanos would be fruitless, making it an impractical option for Vision.

Vision's Weakness and Condition

During the entirety of 'Infinity War', Vision faced significant challenges. He was repeatedly stabbed by Corvus Glaive, leaving him severely weakened. His inability to effectively use the Mind Stone against Thanos is also attributed to his damaged state. Vision lacked both the physical and mental prowess necessary to engage Thanos effectively.

Character Contrasts: Ultron vs. Vision

Despite the shared brilliance and complexity, Ultron and Vision represent distinct entities with differing natures and goals. Ultron is characterized by his cunning, inventive, and obsessive nature, driven by a single, ruthless objective. In contrast, Vision represents a more profoundly complex entity, whose goals and desires are less about revenge and more about understanding and growth.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The choices made in 'Infinity War' are not merely plot devices but are grounded in character development and the logical implications of the story. Vision, weakened and disoriented, was simply not capable of effectively using the Mind Stone against Thanos. This is a testament to the intricate world-building of the MCU and the careful scripting to ensure a coherent narrative.

In the grand scheme of things, the failure to use the Mind Stone on Vision in a more direct fashion serves both to humanize and deepen the characters, while also adding to the overall suspense and excitement of the film.