A. Superhero

1. Superheroes have powers and abilities far beyond those of ordinary human beings.

2. Superheroes pursue justice, defend the defenseless, help those who cannot help themselves, and overcome evil with the force of good.

3. The term Superhero is somewhat oxymoronic because it suggests that the less powers a hero has the more heroic a person because they have more to lose.(example Batman) This notion is untrue.

B. Hero

1. Comes from Greek- illustrious warrior, man admired for achievements and noble qualities, morally elevated

2. Hero- extraordinary powerful person, with weaknesses as well as strengths, whose noble character guides him or her into worthy achievements.

firemen

policemen

doctors

II. How to Be a Hero

A. A Hero makes real sacrifices

Peter Parker, Spider-man sacrificed his loving relationship with Mary Jane and gives up his nights and free time.

B. Heroes realize that there is no real self- fulfillment without self- giving

C. Heroes offer a normative concept- it offers a glimpse of what we ought to be. This makes heroism "inherently attractive," says Plato.

III. Overcoming Fear

A. Fear of danger

Superheroes show the Classic Virtues:

courage, determination, persistence, don't accept defeat, won't ever give up

B. Fear of becoming dependent on violence

1. Philosophers say human beings are creatures of habit and defeating evil with violence can make using violence easier in the future.

2.Superheroes show us how to use self control with violence.

IV. Superheroes as Examples

A. Philosopher Seneca says that heroes are not pleased with low and inferior things.

B. We should look to Heroes as examples for our lives to help us live with courage and moral virtue.

"Cherish some man of great character, and keep him always in mind. Then live as if he were watching you, and order all your actions as if he saw them." -Seneca