Superhero Ethics Superhero Ethics

Do superheroes promote fascist ideology? In this episode of Superhero Ethics, hosts Matthew Fox and Riki Hayashi dive deep into an interview from Screen Rant with renowned comic book writer Alan Moore, who argues that the concept of superheroes contains elements of fascism. Join us as we explore the complex relationship between superhero culture, authoritarianism, and the impact these iconic characters have on our society.Key Points:Is there an inherent problem with the fantasy of extraordinary individuals with superhuman abilities solving the world's problems? We discuss Moore's critique that this longing for a "quick fix" through superpowered beings is problematic and unrealistic.How does the nostalgia often associated with superheroes and their stories play into fascist ideology? We examine the role of romanticizing the past and the persecution of outgroups in both superhero narratives and fascist movements.Can the iconography of superheroes be co-opted by real-world fascists? We analyze the fine line between depicting villainous "superhero-like" characters and inadvertently glorifying their actions.Has the evolution of superhero stories from children's entertainment to adult-oriented content contributed to a misinterpretation of their themes and messages? We explore the impact of this shift on audience perception and understanding.Other topics covered:Defining fascism and its differences from authoritarianismThe immigrant experience in Superman's origin storyThe role of secret identities and "passing" in superhero narrativesExamining Ozymandias as a villain in Watchmen and the moral dilemma he presentsConclusion: Alan Moore's critique of superheroes and their potential links to fascist ideology raises important questions about the power of popular culture in shaping our societal values. While superhero stories can inspire hope and heroism, it is crucial to remain mindful of the messages they convey and their potential to be misinterpreted or exploited. As fans and creators, we must engage in critical discussions about the complexities of these beloved characters and their impact on our world.
Here is the interview on which our episode is based.
We’ve started the conversation. Now we want to hear from you!Want to continue the discussion with us? Agree or disagree with what we talked about, or add your own thoughts? We’ve got options for you!Email: ✉️ Matthew@TheEthicalPanda.com𝕏: EthicalPanda77Facebook: TheEthicalPandaInstagram: TheEthicalPandaTikTok: TheEthicalPandaVisit Superhero Ethics on TruStory.FM for more information, contact info, and more!Want to support the podcast AND get ad-free episodes and bonus content? Become a supporting member of The Ethical Panda Podcasts! Members get access to bonus content with (almost) every ad-free episode of this and my other podcast, Star Wars Universe Podcast! Plus, you'll be showing your support for this show, and all things Ethical Panda. Visit our home on a...

Was Yoda right when he told Luke, "The greatest teacher, failure is," in Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi? What did he mean, and how does this idea play out in the rest of the movie?Riki and Matthew dive into this question, asking just what Yoda means. Is he referring to his own failures, and those of the Jedi? How does this fit with his idea of "do, or do not. There is no try." Who else fails in this movie, and what do they learn from it, and which character's arcs are executed well or poorly?
We’ve started the conversation. Now we want to hear from you!Want to continue the discussion with us? Agree or disagree with what we talked about, or add your own thoughts? We’ve got options for you!Email: ✉️ Matthew@TheEthicalPanda.com𝕏: EthicalPanda77Facebook: TheEthicalPandaInstagram: TheEthicalPandaTikTok: TheEthicalPandaVisit Superhero Ethics on TruStory.FM for more information, contact info, and more!Want to support the podcast AND get ad-free episodes and bonus content? Become a supporting member of The Ethical Panda Podcasts! Members get access to bonus content with (almost) every ad-free episode of this and my other podcast, Star Wars Universe Podcast! Plus, you'll be showing your support for this show, and all things Ethical Panda. Visit our home on TruStory FM to learn more and kickstart your subscription today!Read more about the results of the WGA strike here.Read more about the results of the SAG-AFTRA strike here.

Matthew Fox and Riki Hayashi dive into the question of whether a pirate can truly be a hero. Using the popular anime, manga, and live-action series One Piece as a focal point, they examine the complex nature of piracy and its relationship to morality.The discussion begins by defining the term "pirate" in both English and Japanese contexts, considering its historical and cultural implications. Matthew and Riki then explore the character of Monkey D. Luffy, the protagonist of One Piece, and his unique brand of piracy that challenges traditional notions of right and wrong.Can Luffy's altruistic goals and strong moral compass justify his actions as a pirate? Is he redefining what it means to be a pirate, or is his behavior ultimately misguided? The hosts engage in a lively debate, drawing parallels to other fictional characters like Captain America, Captain Jack Sparrow, and Batman.Key topics covered in this episode include:The definition of piracy in various cultural contextsLuffy's moral code and its implications for his actionsThe role of the World Government in One Piece and its impact on the perception of piratesComparisons between Luffy and other fictional heroes like Captain America and BatmanThe philosophical question of whether an individual's moral compass can supersede the lawThroughout the discussion, Matthew and Riki offer insightful perspectives on the nature of heroism and the complexities of navigating a world where the lines between right and wrong are often blurred. They also touch upon the broader themes of personal freedom, the pursuit of justice, and the potential pitfalls of unbridled confidence.Whether you're a die-hard One Piece fan or simply fascinated by the ethical dilemmas posed by fictional characters, this episode of Superhero Ethics is sure to leave you with plenty of food for thought. Join Matthew and Riki as they grapple with the question: Can a pirate truly be a hero?The articles mentioned in this episode were:AsianStudies.org Some Notes on “Japanese Pirates” Frank L ChanceCrunchy Roll -  Freedom, Heroism and the Definition of “Pirate” in One Piece, by Sean AitchisonKaizoku is the Japanese word for ‘pirate’, explained by Masaki Mori From the Kanji for Sea and Bandit
We’ve started the conversation. Now we want to hear from you!Want to continue the discussion with us? Agree or disagree with what we talked about, or add your own thoughts? We’ve got options for you!Email: ✉️ Matthew@TheEthicalPanda.com𝕏: EthicalPanda77Facebook: TheEthicalPandaInstagram: TheEthicalPandaTikTok: TheEthicalPandaVisit Superhero Ethics on TruStory.FM for more information, contact info, and more!Want to support the podcast AND get ad-free episodes and bonus content? Become a supporting member of The Ethical Panda Podcasts! Members get access to bonus content with (almost) every ad-free episode of this and my other podcast, Star Wars Universe...

We welcome Riki Hayashi as the new co-host alongside Matthew Fox. Riki brings a wealth of knowledge and fresh perspectives to the show, promising engaging discussions on fandom ethics, media analysis, and much more. Join Matthew and Riki as they unveil their plans to take the podcast in new directions, diving deeper into the fascinating world of superhero and geek culture.Key discussion points:How can we analyze media both in its original context and through the lens of modern perspectives?What role does the struggle between money and creative vision play in shaping the media we consume?How has the accessibility of anime and manga changed over time, and what impact does translation have on the viewing experience?Matthew and Riki also explore their own personal journeys through various fandoms, from Star Wars and Star Trek, to horror and beyond. They emphasize the importance of fostering open, respectful conversations and inviting diverse voices to contribute to the discourse.Other topics covered in this episode:Riki's background as a Japanese-American and how it influences his perspective on mediaThe evolution of diversity and representation in science fiction and fantasyThe perpetual nature of franchises and the balance between excitement and disappointmentUpcoming plans for bonus content and guest appearancesJoin the Superhero Ethics community as we embark on this thrilling new chapter with Riki Hayashi. Get ready for thought-provoking discussions, insightful analysis, and a celebration of the power of storytelling to raise important questions about our world.
We’ve started the conversation. Now we want to hear from you!Want to continue the discussion with us? Agree or disagree with what we talked about, or add your own thoughts? We’ve got options for you!Email: ✉️ Matthew@TheEthicalPanda.com𝕏: EthicalPanda77Facebook: TheEthicalPandaInstagram: TheEthicalPandaTikTok: TheEthicalPandaVisit Superhero Ethics on TruStory.FM for more information, contact info, and more!Want to support the podcast AND get ad-free episodes and bonus content? Become a supporting member of The Ethical Panda Podcasts! Members get access to bonus content with (almost) every ad-free episode of this and my other podcast, Star Wars Universe Podcast! Plus, you'll be showing your support for this show, and all things Ethical Panda. Visit our home on TruStory FM to learn more and kickstart your subscription today!Read more about the results of the WGA strike here.Read more about the results of the SAG-AFTRA strike here.

While writing season 2 of Superhuman Public Radio (SPR), Maximilian Clark and John Dorsey reached out to Matthew to talk about a disabled character they were planning to include. In this episode, the three of them talk about that discussion – and the resulting episode – along with how Max and John made a point to bring voices and perspectives from communities other than their own into their writing room and process.
Member Bonus content on Max and John’s other projects.
We’ve started the conversation. Now we want to hear from you!Want to continue the discussion with us? Agree or disagree with what we talked about, or add your own thoughts? We’ve got options for you!Email: ✉️ Matthew@TheEthicalPanda.com𝕏: EthicalPanda77Facebook: TheEthicalPandaInstagram: TheEthicalPandaTikTok: TheEthicalPandaVisit Superhero Ethics on TruStory.FM for more information, contact info, and more!Want to support the podcast AND get ad-free episodes and bonus content? Become a supporting member of The Ethical Panda Podcasts! Members get access to bonus content with (almost) every ad-free episode of this and my other podcast, Star Wars Universe Podcast! Plus, you'll be showing your support for this show, and all things Ethical Panda. Visit our home on TruStory FM to learn more and kickstart your subscription today!Read more about the results of the WGA strike here.Read more about the results of the SAG-AFTRA strike here.

Matthew recently participated in an in-depth analysis of Dune: Part Two on The Film Board podcast, also part of the TruStory FM entertainment podcast network. We're thrilled to share this discussion here, originally recorded for The Film Board, with our audience.In the vast expanse of cinematic storytelling, few tales grip the imagination quite like Frank Herbert's "Dune." With Denis Villeneuve's vision continuing to unfold in Dune: Part Two, The Film Board, including Pete Wright, Steve Sarmento, and our own Matthew Fox, gathered to dissect the intricate layers of prophecy, power, and the dangers of messianic zeal.As they ventured through the dunes of Arrakis, the conversation delved into the blurred lines between hero and conqueror, mirroring the mirages that haunt the desert planet. They explored Paul Atreides' struggle with his destiny against the backdrop of religious manipulation, a theme that echoes Herbert's foresight into the weaponization of belief systems.Under Villeneuve's direction, the narrative expands, bringing Chani to the forefront as a beacon of rationality in the midst of fanaticism's storm. Her perspective not only challenges Paul but also the audience, compelling a confrontation with the enticing trap of messianic figures.Drawing parallels between Herbert's universe and our own, The Film Board analyzed the Abrahamic origins of the messianic archetype, connecting the Fremen's zeal to the tangible intricacies of organized religion and the dynamics of indigenous movements.Ultimately, Dune: Part Two stands as a reflection of our own societal battles with faith, authority, and the repercussions of unbridled conviction. As the discussion wrapped up and the metaphorical twin moons of discourse and introspection set, The Film Board left listeners with a lingering question: In the grand narrative of destiny, do we exercise choice, or are we simply caught in the unstoppable current of fate?
We’ve started the conversation. Now we want to hear from you!Want to continue the discussion with us? Agree or disagree with what we talked about, or add your own thoughts? We’ve got options for you!Email: ✉️ Matthew@TheEthicalPanda.com𝕏: EthicalPanda77Facebook: TheEthicalPandaInstagram: TheEthicalPandaTikTok: TheEthicalPandaVisit Superhero Ethics on TruStory.FM for more information, contact info, and more!Want to support the podcast AND get ad-free episodes and bonus content? Become a supporting member of The Ethical Panda Podcasts! Members get access to bonus content with (almost) every ad-free episode of this and my other podcast, Star Wars Universe Podcast! Plus, you'll be showing your support for this show, and all things Ethical Panda. Visit our home on TruStory FM to learn more and kickstart your subscription today!Read more about the results of the WGA strike here.Read more about the results of the SAG-AFTRA strike here.