Subject Area
Section 2: Batman, Barbie, & Busyness
Abstract
For more than eighty years, the Batman character has exhibited a unique synthesis of major theories of Justice, and through his experiences as a vigilante, exemplified the pursuit of the ideal virtue of Justice. Because virtue requires a lived example to be understood, Batman is one of the foundational stories fulfilling this need for one of collective society’s prominent pillars. Within the horror of Gotham City–a hyperbolic, fictional representation of urban corruption–Batman’s actions as a vigilante, walking a tightrope to maintain morality even above the law might not only be justified, but necessary. The Batman’s nature, balancing ethical theories and maintaining hope in the dark, encourages seeking ideal Justice even as perfection lies permanently out of reach due to human fallibility. Rather than condemning the questionable means of this major pop-culture figure, this paper identifies the justification of his actions by his intentions, and supports his relevance in a society grappling for perfect Justice.
Included in
Criminal Law Commons, Ethics and Political Philosophy Commons, Law and Philosophy Commons, Social Justice Commons
