"As a catalyst for an internal power source?" Do you have
any proof of this concept anywhere, stating the differences in it, between pre and post Byrne?
You really shouldn't be overthinking this that much. Fact: Even with the DCU Earth's technology and scientific knowledge being hundreds of years beyond the real world's, Superman's biology
still defies their understanding of science (which is why cloning him will always result in an imperfect duplicate), so how could some 'Science of Superheroes' book or movie ever hope to explain it? If there
were an explanation of his powers in the real world, it will make Lex Luthor and some of the world's greatest scientific minds look like morons for not figuring it out in a comic world that has all of the real world's scientific knowledge and much more.
Yeah, but there is theoretical science created for a lot things that haven't be constructed yet. For example there is a frame work for a time machine, and a device that allows for FTL travel. Theoretical science is sometimes centuries more advanced than technology science. The fact is theoretical science, can provide a decent explanation for superman's powers without the need of him violating the rules of Thermodynamics (which he currently is). Most agree that thermodynamics is the most profound rule in science, as its the basis of cause and effect. As life is basically all about cause and effect, thermodynamics applies to everything. In other words by saying Superman can violate the rules of thermodynamics you are saying he can violate cause and effect. This just isn't rational.
For example, I let the respectable Flashes get away with violating the laws of Thermodynamics because they have a hyper Dimensional device allowing them to violate it. As we cant say for certain that Thermodynamics applies to higher Dimensions, and higher dimensions are predicted by string theory, it provides a semi decent explanation. The current living solar battery idea, is impossible not just physically but rationally as well. And I just hate the fact that most comic book fans are willing to accept this.
Back to your original point, I don't think anyone will ever have the science to back up a violation of thermodynamics, because it would cause consequential collapse of cause and effect. If cause and effect isn't true, then we are seriously ****ed, in all departments ! Infact the sentence i just used, would no longer make any sense:
“I don't think anyone will ever have the science to back up a violation of thermodynamics, because it would cause consequential collapse of cause and effect”
Notice the use of the word cause. Without cause and effect this sentence becomes meaningless. In other words Luthor and co will never be able to show that Superman can violate the laws of thermodynamics because all language, thought, actions, events etc will be made meaningless in the process. This isn't real world logic, this is just logic. If youre saying that logic shouldn't be applied to comics, then youre in for some ****ty stories !
I can guarantee you won't agree with this, but its just how I see things. I think Superman is the most iconic Super hero out there, and I think its a shame that theoretical science could be used to explain his powers, but no one can be bothered to incorporate it.
