In the realm of international politics, one might not expect to find a discussion on zombies. However, in recent years, scholars have begun to explore the undead as a metaphor for various global challenges. Daniel Drezner, a Professor of International Politics at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, has been at the forefront of this unique intersection between popular culture and academia.
A liberal institutionalist would argue that zombies represent a classic externality problem of dying and then existing in an undead state. This perspective highlights the potential spillover effects of a zombie outbreak and the need for coordinated international cooperation to address such a crisis. By viewing zombies through this lens, one can better understand the complexities of global governance and the importance of institutions in managing transnational threats.
Drezner's light-hearted use of popular culture appeals to students, who appreciate his concise and witty summaries. Yet Drezner dismisses the notion that analyzing zombies is merely a gimmick. Instead, he sees it as a valuable tool for engaging students in complex theoretical debates and challenging traditional perspectives on international relations.
The Game of Thrones TV show and novels have become appealing to scholars as they touch on theoretical concepts and issues central to IR. Similarly, the zombie phenomenon serves as a rich source of material for exploring themes of power, security, and identity in the international arena. By examining how different societies respond to a zombie outbreak, one can gain insights into the dynamics of state behavior and the role of norms in shaping global politics.
Daniel Drezner, a zombie wonk from Tufts University, has a bone to pick with the pop-culture lore of the living dead: Why is there so much fascination with zombies in contemporary society? Through his research and teaching, Drezner seeks to unpack the underlying reasons for the popularity of zombies and what this reveals about our fears and anxieties in the modern world.
Talking about a mediocre piece of writing can be fun. I have attended many an academic seminar about a bad draft — some of them not. Despite the initial skepticism towards analyzing zombies in the context of international politics, scholars have found value in exploring this unconventional subject matter. The zombie phenomenon offers a unique opportunity to engage with students and the public on complex issues in a relatable and engaging way.
There's a clear best player — and a clear worst. Just as in a game of strategy, the study of zombies in international politics has its winners and losers. Some may dismiss the analysis of zombies as frivolous or irrelevant, but others see it as a valuable tool for expanding our understanding of global challenges and the possibilities for international cooperation.
The politics list at Princeton stands out as one of the most venerable and distinguished in the field. We publish books that speak not only to topics of traditional interest, such as statecraft and diplomacy, but also to emerging areas of study, such as the intersection of popular culture and international relations. By embracing new and innovative approaches to the study of politics, scholars can push the boundaries of knowledge and engage with a wider audience.
Our TV Roundtable on humanity, inhumanity, and Season 3, Episode 7, 'When the Dead Come Knocking', delves into the ethical dilemmas posed by the zombie apocalypse. By examining how characters in popular media navigate moral quandaries in the face of existential threats, scholars can gain insights into the complexities of human behavior and the challenges of decision-making in crisis situations.
