Would They Help or Destroy?
Comic books and movies make the idea of super-powered beings seem like a total blast, but the reality would probably be a bit more complicated than a two-hour blockbuster. While some heroes would definitely make the world a safer and more efficient place, others come with enough baggage and destructive power to keep people up at night. With that in mind, here are 10 heroes we wish were real, and 10 we’re glad aren’t.
1. Superman
If Superman flew around Earth, he would drastically change the world for the better. He does everything out of the goodness of his heart, and his moral compass is unmatched. There would be no earthquakes or plane crashes because he’d be up in the sky stopping them.
2. Spider-Man
If Spider-Man was swinging around a city, everyday life would be more enjoyable. Peter Parker is based on a normal person and patrols to prevent crimes that typically happen on the streets. He’d also happily help out if someone needed directions or their dog went missing.
3. The Flash
Imagine how much faster shipping would be worldwide if someone could run across the ocean in seconds. Not only could he deliver things, but he’d be able to respond to medical situations in the time it takes others to put their shoes on.
4. Wonder Woman
Diana Prince would be an asset to the world because she has compassion and wisdom that modern leaders often seem to lack. Instead of just beating the ever-loving-snot out of someone, she always makes an effort to better the lives of the cultures she interacts with.
5. Iron Man
Tony Stark is arrogant and selfish at times, but his inventions would change the world. Alternative power sources and new transportation methods would be discovered and made accessible to all. In addition, everyone would enjoy having a cool piece of technology flying around.
6. Black Panther
The world could really benefit from the advanced science and sustainable living practices that T'Challa shares from his hidden nation. He’s a leader who puts his people first and uses his incredible resources to help the vulnerable across the globe. Having a king who is also a genius scientist and a formidable protector would set a pretty high bar for everyone else.
7. Professor X
A world with Charles Xavier would mean that people with unique abilities finally have a safe place to learn and grow. He dedicates his life to fostering peace between different groups and uses his mind to bridge gaps of misunderstanding. People would feel much safer knowing there’s a powerful telepath watching out.
William Tung from USA on Wikimedia
8. Captain America
Steve Rogers is the kind of person who inspires others to be better just by standing in the same room. His unwavering integrity and courage would provide a much-needed sense of stability during chaotic times. He could always be counted on to do the right thing.
9. Shazam
There’s something incredibly pure about a kid who can transform into a powerhouse just by saying a magic word. He brings a sense of wonder and fun to the superhero business that reminds people why these stories are beloved. Billy Batson would likely use his powers to make the world safer.
10. Doctor Strange
Life would be a lot more interesting knowing that the Sorcerer Supreme is protecting reality from interdimensional threats. He deals with magical problems that have no words to describe, ensuring that the fabric of the universe stays intact. People could rest easy knowing someone is keeping mystical shadows at bay.
Now that we talked about 10 heroes we wished were real, here are 10 we’re happy aren’t.
1. Homelander
The absolute last thing this world needs is a god-like being with the emotional maturity of a spoiled toddler and a desperate need for constant praise. People would live in a state of perpetual fear knowing that one bad mood or a drop in his social media ratings could level a city. He’s a walking nightmare.
2. Omni-Man
While he might look like a trustworthy hero at first glance, his hidden agenda involves taking over the planet for a violent alien empire. It would be devastating to realize that the person looked up to as a savior was actually scouting the world for invasion. No one wants to deal with someone who views humans as insignificant pets rather than actual people.
3. The Hulk
Even though Bruce Banner is a good person, his alter ego is a literal engine of destruction that can’t be easily controlled. If he got angry in a crowded downtown area, the collateral damage to buildings and infrastructure would be catastrophic. Essentially, living next to him would be like living next to a sentient nuclear bomb.
Denis Bourez from France on Wikimedia
4. Batman
While beloved in the movies, a billionaire who spends his nights dressed as a bat beating people up in dark alleys would be terrifying in real life. The legal nightmares and civil rights violations alone would create constant headaches for the local court system. Most would likely prefer a well-funded social program over a masked vigilante.
5. Dr. Manhattan
Being able to perceive every moment in time simultaneously sounds cool—until it becomes clear that he barely acknowledges other people. He could wipe out an entire city or reshape reality as he sees fit and still not notice anyone.
Ryan Quick from Greenbelt, MD, USA on Wikimedia
6. Sentry
Imagine someone literally as strong as a god but with the emotional control of a child with a Rubik’s cube. Sentry could accidentally destroy an entire block before breakfast because he was thinking about sandwiches. That’s the kind of neighbor nobody wants.
7. Silver Surfer
Silver Surfer’s powers are impressive, but he brings Galactus wherever he goes. If he existed, that would mean a planet-eating monstrosity also exists. And it most likely has its eyes on Earth next.
Ludovic Bertron from New York City, Usa on Wikimedia
8. Ghost Rider
The sight of a flaming skeleton riding a motorcycle down the highway would cause massive multi-car pileups every single time. His brand of "vengeance" is intense, and no one wants a supernatural entity judging their soul while running errands.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/nickstone333/ on Wikimedia
9. Deadpool
Having a mercenary who can’t die and never stops talking would be funny for about five minutes before becoming exhausting. He leaves a trail of chaos and empty shell casings wherever he goes, which is bad for neighborhood property values. Constant fourth-wall breaking would get old fast.
https://www.flickr.com/people/49347467@N05/ on Wikimedia
10. Rorschach
A gritty, unwashed vigilante who sees the world in extreme shades of black and white would be a nightmare to encounter. He has no powers, but his uncompromising and often violent approach to "justice" makes him extremely dangerous. People would definitely want to avoid someone carrying a journal full of dark conspiracy theories.
