The Marvel Cinematic Universe and DC Extended Universe have been dominating the screen for over a decade, leaving us wondering if there are still real heroes in American life. Superman, the classic American icon, has been around for 10 decades, but even he is not immune to the trend of fake superheroes overwhelming our consciousness.
Historian Daniel Boorstin wrote about this shift from heroism to fame in his 1961 book “The Image.” Heroes were once known for their great public contributions through immense difficulty and danger. However, with the rise of movies and pictures, heroes became celebrities, prioritizing flimsy fame over enduring contributions to the public good.
Today, we see politicians like Rep. Jeff Crank, R-Colo., and Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., voting against their own values on issues like Medicaid cuts and fiscal responsibility. Their actions are a stark contrast to Superman’s commitment to truth, justice, and the American way.
We need real heroes who embody the values of courage, honesty, and selflessness. They may not be able to leap tall buildings or fly faster than a speeding bullet, but they can inspire us with their everyday heroism. As we watch fake superheroes on screen, let’s remember that true heroes are often right in front of us, waiting to be recognized.
ML Cavanaugh is the author of the forthcoming book “Best Scar Wins: How You Can Be More Than You Were Before.”
Source: https://www.adn.com/opinions/national-opinions/2025/07/18/opinion-we-desperately-need-a-dose-of-truth-justice-and-the-american-way