@scouterv: No, there is no difference. In both cases the definition is arbitrarily restricted without any solid reason to do so.
You mistakenly believe super is synonymous with 'super-powered'. It isn't. Super simply means, basically, 'greater than'.
Taken from Meriam Webster (although almost every definition will be the same):
Full Definition of SUPER
1
a: of high grade or quality b —used as a generalized term of approval <a super cook>
2 : very large or powerful <a super atomic bomb>
3 : exhibiting the characteristics of its type to an extreme or excessive degree <super secrecy>
There is no doubt that Batman is a hero. But unlike say cops and firefighters, he is a superhero because he takes it to the next level. Once again, the definition of superhero has absolutely nothing to do with having super powers. You can continue to believe that if you wish, but it's essentially willful ignorance at that point.
Oh, and in reality we don't call that borderline enhanced, as that scenario doesn't exist in reality. It's easier for me to suspend disbelief about that stuff with the knowledge that every time a bone fractures, it grows back harder, that muscle can become extremely hard and dense, etc. Batman takes these things to an extreme. No enhanced physiology necessary.
A final point: You seem to think that because any human in the DCU could essentially become Batman, it diminishes him. Nothing could be further from the truth. Yes, there are a great many people who could push themselves to that level, with 11 years of training, enduring all kinds of pain and torture, spending all their free time learning and training....but very few do. The fact that he actually did do this is what distinguishes him.
I'm sure you could quit whatever your doing right now and start training to become the worlds strongest man. Your not going to, and the simple fact that you could doesn't take away from the person who actually worked hard to have that title.
To reiterate one last time: The definition of 'superhero' has absolutely nothing to do with super powers.
Log in to comment