quote:
Spider bites also don't give people super-powers; why don't we kill of Peter Parker?
O Wise Snarf, the theory with Spider-man is that radioactivity causes random mutations. A radioactive or mutated spider might have venom with unusual properties. Its a long shot, but its not absolutely improbable to anyone outside of the medical fraternity.

With the Manhunter, everyone knows there are not civilisations on Mars. During the 50s, it was a long shot, to all save astrophysicists. Nowadays it is certain.

Its easier to suspend belief with Spider-man than the Martian Manhunter.