Superman seems an ideal candidate for considering the relative gains
- Strong (er)
- Popular (er)
- Fast (er)
- Fly (er)
- H (er) oic
- Bullet proof (er)
- Fire-resistant (er)
- Innovative (er)
- Care (er)
- Modest (er)
- Heightened Sense (er)
- Sup (er)
So, er... what could be wrong with having those abilities?
Well... people would expect you to always be available .. probably. It also seems highly likely that if you did have all of those abilities, you'd be subjected to a range of tests, quite possibly with scientific principles.
Let's look at the list again from a practical perspective...
Stronger - Okay, it's a good ability, but so far, I've not needed to lift anything larger or heavier than my weekly groceries and part of the package of being a Mum is having teenagers who can assist in carrying these - if only theoretically.
As a choice option, I'm happy to overlook this one. I'm sure being able to move planets or other heavy objects has advantages, but I don't feel I particularly need this. At least, not more than once a week.
Popular - Again, this is more related to practical use within an application scenario - i.e: people respond well to Superman because he serves their needs.
Without wanting to appear to nit-pick here... there's a difference between reality and fiction that would certainly come into play in a real life situation that's unlikely to be beneficial in popularity stakes longer term. Being different might create a good impression, but I suspect that overall it's unlikely to be consistent and certainly not general. No, I don't think popularity is a power, it's a result, which in itself provides the potential for use and in that form could be considered a power.
Fast - Usually leads to suspicion or accusation, at least in my experience - if you're naturally faster, it's difficult for others to accept. As an ideal it might be appreciated, but once you've gone past theory it's not the same reaction. Anyone who achieves by being faster than expected is generally suspected of some misconduct. No, there seems to be more disadvantages overall than gains.
Flight - Great idea, especially in day-dreams. There's no rain or cold winds to deal with in day-dreams, usually. Superman didn't have to consider the effects of weather on make-up, hairstyle or apparel. I can appreciate the benefits of appropriate clothing, but that being said, I'm not sure I'd be happier travelling by independent flight rather than making use of more usual modes of transport.
Heroic - Has some legendary associations, however ... it's subject to storytelling, perspective, credibility, interest, embellishment, appreciation and by virtue of that is likely to be considered as inaccurate, far-fetched, or similar- ultimately it's limited.
Invulnerability - While I can see the benefits I'm also considering the implications, I'm not favouring this.
Innovative - Being creative, pragmatic, and semiotic ... this is normal ....to me.
Caring - Again - normal.
Modest - I'm trying to think of examples that work in reality, considering the most respected people in history and modern times.... and comparing how that might apply to myself specifically in terms of modesty... How does having super ability and modesty combine and effectively generate respect. Perhaps Da Vinci carried a painting around and said, "It's not much." ?
Or maybe modesty is another form of humour, I like it anyway.
Hypersenses - This is a fine balance between positive and negative, I personally wouldn't describe these as super abilities. Innate - yes, different - apparently, but fundamentally normal to those with them. In any case, wherever one sense has been removed, others compensate, so the potential is generally latent.
Super - Perspective - anyone could consider themselves to be super, it's having everyone else agree that makes it true?
I'm not sure Van Gogh would agree that it worked like that for him, although essentially that IS true.
At least, some one must believe it to be true in order for it to be appreciated by any one.
Does being super depend on the agreement of others to be enjoyed in and of itself?
