https://dottore.substack.com/p/the-debilitating-effect-of-superhero?r=71rzs&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
Summary
The episode examines an article that argues that superhero narratives, despite their entertainment value, can have a debilitating effect on audiences by reinforcing a sense of powerlessness. The hosts suggest that the portrayal of extraordinary heroes with superhuman abilities implicitly suggests that ordinary people are incapable of meaningful change, leading to a passive acceptance of their own limitations and the status quo. The article examined contends that this can contribute to a sense of resignation and a diminished sense of personal agency among viewers, hindering their motivation to act as agents of change in their own lives.
The Debilitating Effect of Superhero Narratives on Audiences