Social Complexity, Luke Cage, and Civil Discourse
Martin, J. F. Powers for the people: Social complexity, Luke Cage, and civil discourse. The Power of Superhero Literature: Applying the Lessons of Superheroes to Real Life (Humanities Special Issue).
The paper argues that one of the main purposes or functions of superheroes like Luke Cage is to highlight or make especially salient abstract concepts at the heart of the various considerations we bring to bear when discussing and debating important matters affecting our lives together.
Drawing on previous Luke Cage scholarship (2023 and 2024) and various media sources, the paper focuses on how two themes characteristic of his superhero mission, mutual trust and shared obligations, suggest a path forward in the midst of American civil disagreements.