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Despite “man” being in his name, Batman is still questioned whether or not he is an actual real person in reality. What are his powers? Is he an actual bat? Questions like this are common and his allure created a sort of mythical background.
Although he doesn’t exist in actual reality, the answer is yes, Batman is a person and not a mythical being or creature. Although he has a utility belt with all sorts of gadgets, he has no superpowers. That being said he is also a genius and uses computer technology to keep tabs on criminals, his fellow Justice League friends, and the world itself. Batman trusts very few people. He is kind of a psychopath like that. I recommend you read my analysis of Batman if you want to know more. But yes, Batman is a real person.
You’re not the only one who has wondered this. In DC’s New 52 reboot of superheroes the Justice League (before becoming a league) asked the same question, as he is such an elusive character. People are often surprised that he has no super abilities per se. In the Justice League movie, the Flash asks him what his super powers are. He replies with a snarky “I’m rich”.
But the truth is Batman is so much more than “rich”. His ability to plan an execute are his strongest points. Combined with his genius mind and you have a dangerously powerful character. Proof of this is in the JLA: Tower of Babel (Affiliate Link) story line. Batman took her paranoia too far and came up with plans to subdue all members of the Justice League. He even created Red Kryptonite, a new variant that causes Superman intense pain. So it’s not simply whether or not Batman is a real person but rather how great of a person he is. And he is one heck of a smart fella. So smart that after the Tower of Babel incident they turn against him. What kind of friend creates a way to trap or kill you?
Why Batman Can’t Actually Exist
Batman possesses attributes and skills that exceed the capabilities of a normal person. Even though he does not possess any superhuman abilities, Batman is noted for his extraordinary strength, agility, and combat expertise. In addition, he can successfully engage several foes at once, execute incredible acrobatic maneuvers with ease, and endure harsh physical ordeals without succumbing to defeat. Each of these feats is out of the realm of possibility for an average individual regardless of how much training they receive.
What is more, Batman’s number of gadgets and technology seem to be an impossible dream in real life. Although his Batmobile is an example of one of the most advanced cars in the world, along with his many pockets on a utility belt full of tools and weapons, no single person can afford such a costly collection. Even more startling is the depiction of Batman’s grappling hook and batarangs that are highly scientific, yet defy gravity, as well as the principles of physics. While this may be true for comics or movies, it is just an impossibility in real life.
Moreover, the billionaire Bruce Wayne, also known as Batman’s alter ego, can be seen as a questionable personality. A successful double life is unthinkable without having colossal amounts of money, power, and influence at hand. It is unlikely that one person would have all three resources without raising suspicion or getting caught. Considering how much effort Batman puts into his quest against crime, it is impossible for him to maintain a thriving enterprise and an active social life as Bruce Wayne.
It might be argued that indeed some vigilantes have taken it upon themselves to fight crime in the real world. Unfortunately, these people do not have the training, resources, and expertise of Batman. In fact, they usually do more harm than good and put their own lives at risk with this kind of behavior. Conversely, Batman follows a set of ethical guidelines and is extensively skilled in fighting and tracking activities, making him the ideal person for the job because he is efficient yet responsible.
Batman’s identity is an example that shows the ethical and legal implications of thinking of Batman as a person. He may be considered a hero by society at large, but his methods for crime-fighting, often involving violence and vigilante justice, would not be appropriate in any reality. In fact, Batman defies the law and its prescribed ways to dispense justice in favor of taking it into his own hands, an act that contradicts principles in a just and fair society.