Manhunters

Manhunters are a fictional species of robotic beings appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. They were created by Joe Staton and Len Wein, first appearing in "The Detective Comics" #505 in August 1981. Manhunters are known for their role as an interstellar police force, serving the Guardians of the Universe, the same ancient beings who created the Green Lantern Corps.

Unlike the Green Lanterns who wield power rings, Manhunters operate on a more rigid, programmed directive. Their primary function is to enforce galactic law without the need for individual judgment or discretion. This lack of sentience and emotion often leads to extreme and uncompromising methods in their pursuit of justice, sometimes resulting in the persecution of the innocent. They are typically depicted as metallic, humanoid automatons.

The Manhunters have a complex history with the Green Lantern Corps. Initially, they were intended to be a replacement for the Green Lanterns, but their unyielding nature and tendency to err led to their failure and subsequent banishment by the Guardians. However, rogue Manhunters have reappeared throughout history, often serving as antagonists to the Green Lanterns and other heroes. Their programming, while designed for order, can be exploited or corrupted, making them a recurring threat in the DC Universe. Some storylines explore the philosophical differences between the Manhunters' programmed justice and the Green Lanterns' chosen path of willpower and responsibility.