The Martian Manhunter Pro/Con Workshop
Wherein DCU/CBR folks can post creative, constructive solutions and thoughtful analysis of the seemingly problematic character of J'onn J'onzz, the Martian Manhunter.
First appearing in a 1955 issue of Detective Comics, "John Jones" is a strange blend of Batman's super-sleuth and Superman's laundry list of powers. Over time, he's served as the moral compass and backbone of a variety of Justice League incarnations, being one of the longest serving members to not hold a consistent solo book.
There are several anachronistic issues with J'onn's presentation in contemporary comics, as science education and fiction expectations have grown in nuance, depth and breadth.
[B]1. Powers[/B]
[I]Superman + Professor X + Kitty Pryde + Invisible Man + Plastic Man + Mystique + ?[/I]
The Martian Manhunter's powers include:
[U]Body[/U]
Superhuman strength, speed, and durability
Mass manipulation, including shapeshifting, invisibility, and intangibility
Regenerative healing factor
[U]Mind[/U]
Genius-level intellect
Photographic memory
Flight
Telekinesis
Telepathy
[U]Both[/U]
Martian nine senses
Plasma beam projection
While several have suggested reducing his powerset to merely telepathy and telekinesis, or other combinations --I wonder if there's a solution that allows for these multiple powers in a way that makes him special among Martians. IE: Do we want all Red, Green, and White Martians to have J'onn's overwhelming powerset as well?
Maybe J'onn's role as a manhunter(police) on Ma'aleca'andra(Mars), awarded him a variety of abilities that aren't standard among Martians. Maybe there are distinct powers/proclivities between the various colors of ancestral Martian peoples.
So, what powers do you expect from [URL="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miss_Martian"]M'gann M'orzz[/URL]? What do you expect from [URL="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jemm"]Jemm[/URL]? What about [URL="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faceless_Hunters"]Yellow Martians or Klaramarians[/URL]? Koolars? Hyperclan? Are each of these examples of their people, or enhanced specimens; superhuman to our human?