Did You Know...

Did you know that Fawcett Comics had a published code of ethics for its comics?  I didn't until I read about it in the Fawcett Companion written by P. C. Hamerlink .  In an article on page 24, there is a Fawcett Comics Code of Ethics that lists 7 rules to be followed by everyone writing their comics.  This list was written in 1942.

Here is the first rule from the code:  "Policemen, judges, officials and respected institutions must not be portrayed as stupid or ineffective in such a way as to weaken respect for public authority.  Crimes against the law shall never be presented in such a way as to throw sympathy with the crime as against law and justice or to inspire others with the desire for imitation."

I've read many editions of Whiz Comics and Captain Marvel Adventures and can truly say they held to that!  It seems that they wanted to have wholesome characters and stories that instilled values into its readers. I'm not sure if you can make out the picture below, taken from Whiz Comics #115.  

On the left you see a seal of Wholesome Entertainment/Approved Reading.  At the bottom, next to the signature of W. H. Fawcett, Jr. it says, "Every effort is made to insure that these comic magazines contain the highest quality of wholesome entertainment."  I think Captain Marvel's comics did a great job of providing its readers with wholesome entertainment!

Did you know Fawcett Comics had a written code of ethics?  You do now!