There is a long-running argument in comic book circles about whether Batman can actually compete with Superman. Superman has the powers. Batman has the tools, the money, and the mind. The debate always comes down to one variable: prep time. Given enough of it, the argument goes, Batman can beat anyone. He studies the opponent, builds the right countermeasure, and shows up exactly prepared for the fight he expects.
The lesson people take from that is about tools. I think it’s about something else. Batman’s tools only work because he already knows exactly who he is and what he’s trying to do. Without that, the gadgets are just expensive.
That is the conversation venture is having right now, whether it knows it or not.
