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The ambiguous role of science and technology in Marvel superhero comics: From their ‘Golden Age’ to the present-day

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  • Muscio, Alessandro

Abstract

Science and Technology (S&T) is a key aspect of superhero comic books. Comics reach a vast audience and are rife with scientific references. They represent a valuable resource for communicating the value of science in popular culture. The Marvel universe has evolved exponentially since its birth in 1939, breaking into the cinema industry and reaching new audiences. However, a glance at some popular Marvel characters raises some concern about the part played by S&T in superhero stories and the debatable effects of S&T on superhero characters. In this paper, we analyse the use of S&T in the Marvel universe (1632 identified characters), to investigate whether comics books favour or impede the diffusion of S&T and to determine whether S&T has a positive or negative connotation in comics. In line with the existing literature, we argue that comics' use of science can influence public perception of and acceptability of scientific discoveries.

Suggested Citation

  • Muscio, Alessandro, 2023. "The ambiguous role of science and technology in Marvel superhero comics: From their ‘Golden Age’ to the present-day," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 186(PB).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:tefoso:v:186:y:2023:i:pb:s0040162522006709
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techfore.2022.122149
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Steinmueller, W. Edward, 2017. "Science fiction and innovation: A response," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 46(3), pages 550-553.
    2. Christopher Benjamin Menadue & Susan Jacups, 2018. "Who Reads Science Fiction and Fantasy, and How Do They Feel About Science? Preliminary Findings From an Online Survey," SAGE Open, , vol. 8(2), pages 21582440187, June.
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    6. Archibugi, Daniele, 2017. "The social imagination needed for an innovation-led recovery," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 46(3), pages 554-556.
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