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Charles Xavier and Magneto are two powerful leaders of the mutant movement in the X-Men universe. However, while both protect the interests of mutants, they utilize different views on the future of their kind. For Charles Xavier, the harmonious and productive coexistence of humans and mutants is the ultimate goal. Magneto, on the other hand, argues that such an approach is inherently flawed since it aligns with the existing systems of power and, as such, does not improve the situation for mutants. The following essay analyzes Magnetos viewpoint using the evidence from God Loves, Man Kills.
It should be pointed out that some of the events of the graphic novel are consistent with Magnetos point of view. An example of such an event is the television debate during which Xavier confronts a fundamentalist minister William Stryker. Stryker is an influential and powerful individual and is exceptionally eloquent. Throughout the conversation, he uses a number of tactics that seemingly add credibility to his negative stance on the issue of mutants.
While the impact of the debate is not specified, it is referred to by the studio crew and some of the mutants Strykers victory. The outcome is attributed to the speakers understanding of the media and the ability to play on the fears of the audience (Claremont and Anderson 13). Xavier, on the other hand, tries to appeal to the listeners rationality, an approach met with skepticism even by his supporters.
The described scenario is an excellent case in support of Magnetos views. First, the arguments based on philosophical and ethical concepts create a weaker impact than those appealing to emotion. The proponents of the existing system of power are aware of this effect and actively use it to their advantage. To further aggravate the situation, the television studio crew switches to commercials without giving the professor a chance to respond, thus undermining Xaviers position (Claremont and Anderson 13). In other words, the current system of power has the means of gaining an unfair advantage over its opponents and actively resorts to these means.
More importantly, it is evident that a significant part of the population neither agrees with nor empathizes with Xavier. The best evidence in support of this claim is the reaction of the audience to Strykers public performances. On one occasion, he publicly challenges the idea of mutants being human. The tendency of humans to build trust on perceived likeness can lead to prejudice and discrimination. Thus, a society described in the graphic novel is predisposed towards the mistreatment of mutants. In other words, the existing system of power contains a number of caveats that permit discrimination regardless of the suggested official position.
However, it is also necessary to acknowledge some of the weaknesses of Magnetos view. First, it is apparent that the people do not oppose mutants universally. The characters of the novel receive help and support from humans.
Some of the commentators of the professors speech are openly sympathetic to his ideas and are disappointed by Strykers victory (Claremont and Anderson 14). Finally, the climactic point of the story involves a police officer openly confronting Stryker, who at this point is threatening one of the professors mutants with a gun. The officer comments on his actions by referring to the victim as a little girl instead of mutant (Claremont and Anderson 62). Such behavior does not align with Magnetos grim predictions and suggests that the existing balance of power is not infallible and can be disregarded by open-minded individuals.
Second, and perhaps, more importantly, Magnetos proposed course of action essentially mimics the system he is trying to overturn. According to Magnetos views, the mutants need to actively oppose humans who deny them equal rights. In extreme cases, it is possible to resort to violence in order to achieve this goal. The latter condition stems from the fact that mutants, on average, are more capable of survival due to their outstanding powers.
However, Magneto ignores the fact that the proposed social structure is based on the same principles he intends to overturn. In addition, the lack of compassion in the current system is based mostly on biases and preconceived notions, which are reversible (as was demonstrated by a police officer in an incident described above). On the other hand, Magnetos vision requires consistent and systemic oppression of human beings.
Finally, it is necessary to acknowledge that mutants are not different from humans in terms of psychological, emotional, and social values. Therefore, a principle backed by a socially accepted law is one of the most effective ways of determining behavior. Humans are highly social creatures, and social interactions maintained by them are crucial for their well-being in the long term. Trying to impose a preferred version of equality through coercion will only produce a short-lived effect. Over time, social contracts will be established to avoid violence.
As can be seen, the existing systems of power are susceptible to prejudice and discrimination. In addition, it is clear that these prejudices are sufficient for overriding the law. However, the latter is far more likely to succeed in the long run as it aligns with the social nature of all humans, including mutants. In other words, Magneto is only partially right in his assumptions.
Work Cited
Claremont, Christopher, and Brent Eric Anderson. X-Men: God Loves, Man Kills. Marvel Comics Group, 1982.
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