The expression “truth, justice, and the American way” comes from a 1942 radio program. This episode of the Adventures of Superman, a radio series, was the first program to use truth, justice, and the American way. However, it wasn’t until the Adventures of Superman television series which ran from 1952-1958 that made this a synonymous phrase. The weekly introduction revealed Superman’s weekly purpose: truth, justice, and the American way.
So Jesus said to those Jews who had believed in Him, If you abide in My word [hold fast to My teachings and live in accordance with them], you are truly My disciples. 32 And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free, John 8:31-32.
The context of truth, justice, and the American way relates to what was going on in the world at this time. On December 11, 1941, Adolf Hitler declared war on the United States. When you put the words of Superman into a real-life war, it was as if America was searching for a superhuman being to become the world’s peacekeeper. During World War II and the post-war years, Superman’s motto became a way of life which united Americans under one common goal based upon truth and justice.
Learn to do right! Seek justice, relieve the oppressed, and correct the oppressor. Defend the fatherless, plead for the widow. 18 Come now, and let us reason together, says the Lord. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be like wool, Isaiah 1:17-18.
Unfortunately, if Superman was introduced today for the first time, the woke media would likely cancel this superhero. Times have changed and truth is now relative as opinions have become elevated to fact status. Meanwhile, justice is racist if you talk to liberals and progressives. However, if you currently reside in a large metropolitan city with district attorneys who refuse to prosecute lawbreakers, chaos now reigns. If America could only return to the Superman of 1942, truth, justice, and the American way might still have a chance. Perhaps, the 2022 midterm elections can repair what has been broken? Vote your conscience.
by Jay Mankus