Bulwark Takes How a Zombie Apocalypse EXPOSES Global Politics
Jun 28, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Daniel Drezner, a Tufts professor and author renowned for blending horror with international politics, reveals how zombie scenarios illuminate global relations. They explore themes of cooperation and resilience, fueled by films like '28 Days Later.' Drezner creatively applies international relations theories to a hypothetical zombie apocalypse, drawing parallels to real-world pandemics and government responses. The conversation highlights public trust during crises and critiques the anti-vaccine movement in today's context.
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Zombies Explain Politics Anecdote
- Daniel Drezner wrote his book on zombies after reading a mathematical paper on zombie outbreaks with no political context.
- He used zombies to creatively explain international relations theories in a fun, accessible way.
Zombies as Cooperation Metaphors
- Zombies symbolize threats that humanity should be able to counter through cooperation and adaptation.
- Daniel sees zombie stories as metaphors for real-world failures to act swiftly and collectively.
IR Theories on Zombie Response
- Different international relations theories explain state responses to zombies and crises differently.
- Realists see an anarchic fight for survival; liberals believe in cooperation despite the risks of globalized spread.
