I totally agree with elements of a art genre being used and becoming popular and all. I guess that is in part how new genres form. And that no work is "true" 100% in a genre otherwise it would be just more of the same and all that. I just feel that there is a line, a feel to say that this work core genre/vibes is cyberpunk instead of having cyberpunk elements. And for sure there are works that defy having a core genre at all and is really a blend of genres or its own thing.
I just want to push back slightly, in my opinion, about Ghost in the shell forgoing the low life. I think it is not the main aspect and main theme but I think it shows it in the aesthetic of the city and some characters like the garbage truck driver. I feel if it had no low-life aspects the profession of garbage management would look different.
I may be wrong but I think judges are not elected nor politically appointed in Brazil (I think the exception is the supreme Court). They are like other public jobs that you have to pass an exam and compete with other candidates.