Heroes

Alright folks, it's time to indulge me again. Let's have a little mental pow-wow (and possbily, biff, or zok).

I like few things as much as mixed mythology, and nowhere is mixed mythology better demonstrated than super hero comic books. Your average superhero's world accomadates magic, science-fiction technology, space travel, pantheistic religion, superstition and urban legend. But whether a super hero draws his powers from the thunder, a radioactive bite, or mastery of martial arts, there's a few things that set them apart from every day people. The average super hero of the Silver Age (a phrase that won't mean a lot to many of you) had a few common concepts. Universal ideals shared beyond race, creed or gender (and many of the Silver Age villains possessed some or all of these traits, albeit twisted on occasion).

1. Action must be taken to defend the defenseless.
2. A good deed is its own reward.
3. We are equal with our fellows.
4. Apathy in the face of evil is itself an evil act.
5. A hero must be an example for others to follow.

Heroes don't catch on because of superficial qualities such as fancy powers or amazing adventures. They have to have a certain something at the core which is relatable and genuinely heroic. When you see the Fantastic Four, think of them as a family first, and super heroes second. When you see Spider-Man, recognize a man struggling with his responsability. Superman is just a simple farm boy who has the power to prevent tyrrany. Batman wants to prevent personal tragedies. The X-Men want to remove racism and fear.

These are noble causes, but how can they really apply to our lives? It's hard to see how you might make a difference when bullets don't bounce off you. But it's all a frame of mindset. I'm sure you all have someone out there who you can think of as a hero. Maybe I can clarify that a bit.

There's a theory on the nature of good versus evil, which bears discussing a little here. They may be human precepts, ones that don't exist in the natural world, but they also serve as philosophies, and they work as such.

Good acts benefit the person who commits them and the people around him. A good act makes things better for everyone. Obvious good acts include charity, care, and compassion. Less obvious good acts include basic consideration and civility.
Evil acts benefit the person who commits them at the cost of people around him. Obvious evil acts include theft, callousness, and harm. Less obvious acts include selfishness and forgetfulness.