What is this book about?

The Science of superheroes by Lois H. Gresh and Robert Weinberg takes a lighthearted but clear-headed look at the real science that underlies some of the greatest superhero comic books of all time. Each chapter presents the story of the origin of one of more superheroes and asks questions that lead to discussions about the limits of science, the laws of nature, and the future of technology.

Why should you read this book?

Because it both uplifts and destroys the spirit of the comic book and non-comic book reader. Whatever you like, science or science fiction this book caters to both minds.

It’s hard to talk about this book without not wanting to give away anything. But, I’ll give you a low-down on what he says is possible or impossible and let you decide if you’d like to continue reading the book.

Superman:
Scientists say, visitors from another planet are possible, but Superman is not.

The Fantastic Four:
Scientists say, their powers are too bizarre to explain, therefore they are not scientifically possible.

The Hulk:
Scientists say, the Hulk is actually entirely possible!

Batman:
Scientists say, Batman is actually entirely possible as well. In fact, Batman comics were the reason why we have some of the inventions we have today. Namely: jet packs, spy camera’s, high diode lasers, miniaturized utility equipment, pass keys and pick locks, gas capsules, miniature portable explosives; granted, some of these ideas were already in the works but it was the inspiration young scientists learned from Batman comics to look into the future of these technologies listed above.

Aquaman and Submariner:
Scientists say, Aquaman and Submariner have a high probability that they are entirely possible!

Spiderman:
Scientists say, that he isn’t necessarily improbable. But inaccurate. Spiderman shares a couple similar traits to that of actual Spiders, but not many. He’s a psuedo Spiderman. Scientifically still however, he is for the most part improbable. However, the idea of an insect being radioactive is not inaccurate. Many insects can survive radioactivity, whether or not it would be passed on in the manner in which Spiderman acquired his powers, certainly not.

Green Lantern:
Scientists say, that the power source that fuels the Green Lantern ring and battery is very probable. Their weakness to the color yellow and the texture of wood? Is actually entirely 100% possible.

Ant Man/Giant Man/The Atom:
Scientists say, they are not possible.

The Flash:
Scientists say, is for most part probable.

The X-Men:
Scientists say, are more than possible; they’re quite probable in our future.

Last but not least…what blew my mind and what will blow your mind as well…

Donald Duck comics. Yes that’s right. Disney’s Donald Duck. Mickey, Goofy, Pluto, The Chipmunks, Uncle Scrooge, etc. etc.

Scientists say…are entirely 100% scientifically accurate. You heard me. (If you want to know how and why…read the book. It’s an amazing quick read and extremely informative for the comic geek and non alike.)

Below are some amazing quotes from the book that might entice you more to want to read it:

“Scientists say every race of beings in the universe wants to discover intelligent life elsewhere. They base their assumption on our behavior. But, aliens, being alien, probably will have little or nothing in common with us. They might not be curious, or a vast number of them might not want to use their resources to contact other races in space. Instead, they may spend their money on the poor, the homeless, and the hungry.” – Lois Gresh and Robert Weinberg, The Science of superheroes

“Reading comic books requires some suspension of disbelief. When we pick up a comic, we need to be willing to give the author some leeway in his writing. Except in extreme cases, we have to be willing to accept some compromises. In comics, odd coincidences are allowed to help the plot move. Characters can change their minds suddenly, because, though most of us hate to admit it, we do the same thing. Situations are resolved in most books by the end of the story because readers like tidy conclusions.” – Lois Gresh and Robert Weinberg, The Science of superheroes

“One of the basic premises of superhero comics is coming up with real-world remedies for imaginary troubles.” – Lois Gresh and Robert Weinberg, The Science of superheroes

“Comic book fans have always complained about the genre’s lack of respect. They feel comics deserve more attention than they receive in the media and that the general public should realize that comic aren’t just for kids. The success of a few graphic novels in the mainstream has spurred hopes that someday comics will achieve some measure of respectability. Maybe. Someday. When comic books writers give the same care and attention to all story elements-including the science-that writers of other forms of literature apply their work.” – Lois Gresh and Robert Weinberg, The Science of superheroes

If you would like to buy the book, you can find it here.

Discussion: What would you like to see in a comic book that would make it more appealing to you? What turns you off about comic books now? (Please leave your comments below, do not message or IM me with your answers)