Throughout most of his comic book history, Xavier is paraplegic. He is also one of the world's most powerful mutant minds. As well as being a high-level telepath, Xavier is a scientific genius and a leading authority on genetics, mutation, and psionic powers. Xavier resents the violent methods of the supervillain Magneto and argues for a pacifistic path towards civil rights. Xavier's actions and goals in life are often compared to those of Martin Luther King, Jr. for his involvement with the American civil rights struggle,[1] whereas Magneto is often compared with the more militant civil rights activist Malcolm X.[1]