2013-03-12
Explanation
This comic follows Superman saving a man who was attempting suicide by jumping off a building. After being caught, the man says he suddenly feels like he has "a new lease on life" and declares he's going to pursue his dream -- which turns out to be advocating for white supremacy. Superman is horrified, pointing out "That's not the American way!" The man responds that he thinks the government should be overthrown and replaced by "a dictator of pure genetic stock." When Superman calls him a fascist racist, the man cheerfully agrees and thanks Superman for the lift. In the final panels, labeled "Later," an old woman asks Superman for help with a stolen purse, and Superman -- now traumatized by his earlier experience -- asks "What are your political affiliations?" before agreeing to help.
The comic explores an uncomfortable logical consequence of Superman's unconditional heroism. Superman is supposed to save everyone, but what happens when the person he saves turns out to be morally repugnant? The joke escalates from the wholesome superhero trope of saving suicidal people (who always conveniently feel grateful and reformed) to the awkward realization that not everyone saved will use their new lease on life for good. The final panel, where Superman has started screening people for their political views before helping them, is a funny commentary on how one bad experience can corrupt even the most idealistic principles. It's also a satirical take on the inherent tension in liberal democratic values between universal rights and tolerating intolerance.