Superhero Ethics

Paul joins me to talk about Batman: The Long Halloween , an animated movie based on the comics run of the same name. Paul Christopher Hoppe, also known as ZenMadman, is a writer, teacher, and student of poker, chess, language, and life. Find out more here: http://zenmadman.com/ https://www.patreon.com/zenmadman https://www.twitch.tv/zenmadman https://twitter.com/zenmadman *************************...

Ashley Coffin, Katy Brennan, and Mark Garkusha join me to try and find the bright spots in the first season of Willow . We had varied success, but we had a lot of fun talking about it! Ashley Coffin wears many hats, including Stranded Panda Supreme Leader, MCU Co-Host, Empress of All Things Thirsty, F*ck Around and Find Out Enforcer, co-host of Bill & Ashley's Terror Theater , and frequent gue...

It's been 10 years since Karl Urban kept his mask on for the entire film, but the questions that this story about police acting as judge, jury, and executioner raises continue to be relevant today. We talk about the movie, the moral issues it raises, and how Karl Urban's grunting paved the way for Pedro Pascal's silent acting in The Mandalorian. ****************************************************...

Matthew and Paul talk about stuff they watched in 2022, as well as the future and history of Superhero Ethics. Paul Hoppe, also known as ZenMadman, lives in a metaphorical cave on a mountain in the mind in Las Vegas, where he frequently talks about deleting all social media, yet can still be found at his website zenmadman.com and on Twitch, Twitter and YouTube under the handle ZenMadman. He may or...

What happens when you mix Hebrew & Greco-Roman ideas of divinity into a single mythology? How does a story of a blessing for all become a centerpiece of consumerism? Professor Matthew Kappel joins me to talk about the Jesus birth narrative through the lens of mythology. ************************************************************************** This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics ,...

What exactly is critical theory, and how can it serve as a lens through which we examine the superhero and science fiction narratives that captivate us? Joining us is Gabriel Cruz, an assistant professor of media studies at North Carolina Central University, who brings a wealth of knowledge from his PhD in Media and Communication Studies from Bowling Green State University. His research delves int...

As we eagerly anticipate the release of the new Willow series, we turn back the clock to the 1980s to revisit the original fantasy classic, Willow . Joining me are Mark Garkusha, Ashley Coffin, and first-timer Katy O'Leary Brennan. Together, we reminisce about the film's epic storytelling, Val Kilmer's memorable wardrobe choices, and the reasons Willow holds a special place in our childhood memori...

Matthew and Paul discuss The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power and possibly write a better description at some point. ************************************************************************** This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics , an Ethical Panda podcast and part of the TruStory FM Entertainment Podcast Network . Check out our website to find out more about this show and our sist...

Ashley Coffin and I discuss Neil Gaiman's Sandman , dissecting the intricate tales of Dream, Desire, and the rest of the Endless. Ashley shares her affection for Gaiman's somber goth boys, while I come to the realization that, as much as I might yearn to be the brooding hero, I'm more akin to the companions who keep them grounded. *******************************************************************...

Jessica Plummer joins me to delve into Black Adam , where we dissect the film's exploration of ethical dilemmas and its commentary on international politics. We ponder the depths of these themes and question the extent of their deliberate inclusion in the storyline. For further insights and background information, Jessica has recommended several articles: The enigmatic history of Hawkman A look ba...

Jessica Plummer and Paul Hoppe join me to honor the memory of Kevin Conroy, whose voice acting brought Batman to life for generations of fans. We reflect on the depth Conroy brought to the Dark Knight and share our favorite moments from his career. For further reading and context on Conroy's impact and the world of superheroes he influenced, Jess provided some insightful articles: Kevin Conroy Obi...

Ashley Coffin teams up with me to explore the fiery depths of House of the Dragon . Join us as we unravel the intricate web of politics, power, and dragons in this Targaryen-centric saga. ************************************************************************** This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics , an Ethical Panda podcast and part of the TruStory FM Entertainment Podcast Network . C...

Look up in the sky! It's not just a bird or a plane—it's an entire animated film about superhero pets! Matthew and Paul dive into DC Superpets , where they find unexpected layers of inquiry and a barrel of laughs. Plus, they touch on the poignant Avatar: The Last Airbender episode, "Appa's Lost Days." ************************************************************************** This episode is a prod...

We're thrilled to have Jess Plummer on board to discuss Season 1 of She-Hulk . Join us as we dive into the nuances and highlights of the series. ************************************************************************** This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics , an Ethical Panda podcast and part of the TruStory FM Entertainment Podcast Network . Check out our website to find out more about...

Will and Steve from the Hype is my Superpower Podcast team up with Paul and me to compare Ms. Marvel and Moon Knight as they transition from comic panels to the silver screen. Join us as we dissect these adaptations and their fidelity to the source material. ************************************************************************** This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics , an Ethical Pand...

Paul and I dissect the latest season of Cobra Kai in a conversation that could be summed up as: Matthew: Okay, this season really jumped the shark. Paul: Look at all this cool stuff on the other side of the shark! We also share a stinger about the art and impact of training montages. ************************************************************************** This episode is a production of Superher...

In our ongoing series on the ethics of artificial intelligence, we take a deep dive into the classic film WarGames . We explore the intersections of game theory, machine learning, and the moral implications of approaching warfare through the lens of gaming. Join us as we navigate the complex terrain where technology, strategy, and ethical considerations collide. ***********************************...

Rounders has long been a favorite film for both Paul and me, making it the perfect feature for our milestone 200th episode. We dive into the nuances of poker, celebrating how the movie captures the essence of the game, and we unpack the myriad of ethical questions that both poker and the movie raise. If you've never seen Rounders or are new to the world of poker, don't worry—we explain everything...

Podcasts can be meticulously crafted or serendipitously spontaneous, and this episode emerged from the latter—a conversation that evolved naturally from a stinger into a full-blown discussion. We found ourselves deep in dialogue about navigating discussions around contentious issues that often attract negativity and vitriol. Though we might get a bit punchy, we hope it lends charm and levity to an...

Space: The Final Frontier. This concept has been integral to America's self-identity, symbolizing exploration and adventure—and the myriad issues arising from the perception of "undiscovered country" as land untouched by white man. Professor Matthew Wilhelm Kapell joins Paul and me to discuss the significance of the frontier and how Star Trek has interacted with this theme throughout its many iter...

Comic book aficionado Jessica Plummer joins us to delve into the ethical quandaries presented in the first two episodes of She-Hulk . We'll discuss whether Abomination's legal arguments hold water and explore the significance of Jennifer Walters' unique approach to being a Hulk, contrasting sharply with Bruce Banner's experience. Our conversation extends to the roots of She-Hulk in the comic book...

In this episode, we delve into the philosophical ponderings of Uncle Ben and how they might apply to She-Hulk , who seems reluctant to embrace heroism. Would she validate or challenge Uncle Ben's iconic belief in the correlation between great power and great responsibility? We revisit an engaging conversation from the MCUCast hosted by Matthew Carroll, reflecting on this enduring question. Listen...

In this episode, Paul and I explore the intricate world of canon and continuity within storytelling. We discuss the distinctions between the two, ponder who ultimately decides what constitutes canon, and consider the significance of headcanon in how audiences engage with their favorite narratives. Join us as we delve into the complexities of these concepts that are fundamental to the structure and...

In this episode, we're joined by PopCultureRabbi to delve into the theological themes presented in Thor: Love & Thunder . We'll examine the character Gorr, whose grief and anger toward the gods for his suffering make him a complex and compelling antagonist. Is it possible to consider a deity as benevolent when pain and loss are part of their creation? This question brings us to the concept of...

Harley Quinn's third season serves up a smorgasbord of ethical dilemmas ripe for discussion. Joining the conversation is Emily Cissell, alongside first-time podcast guest Abby Neiman, to delve into the moral quandaries presented in this animated adult comedy series. From the chaotic anti-hero Harley Quinn's journey of self-discovery and redemption to the complex relationships and villainous scheme...