Theories of International Politics and Zombies by Daniel Drezner - Book Report/Review Example

“Theories of International Politics and Zombies” by Daniel Drezner Introduction Daniel Drezner attempts to explain the different scenarios that would occur in the advent of a zombie invasion in the book International Politics and Zombies. Even though Drezner agrees that the chances of such a calamity to occur is difficult, he proliferates a zombie attack could eradicate humanity in theory. Additionally, the occurrence of a zombie invasion can result in various foreign policy implications given that the incident would warrant extreme rebuttal from governments. Drezner intends to enlighten the governments to prepare to include zombies by looking at various international relation principals and theories. He establishes that it can be a very intrinsic affair trying to amass zombies with humanity based on the belief that they crave for the flesh of humans (Drezner, 2011). Accordingly, such an attack can solicit various forms of diplomatic coercion as a norm practiced by governments globally. Analysis of Different IR Theories Presented and Best Policy Response Zombie Attack International relations takes different forms of theoretical approaches. For instance, realism argues that countries are autonomous due to their sovereignty, and no parallel societies can exist to mediate relations between them, not unless the move is forceful. On this, Drezner (2011) suggests that realism can favor a zombie universe. Further, he argues that the failure of humans collaborate and the futility of international cooperation can lead to zombies forming agreements with other countries. It is important to envision the assumptions of realists by looking at the principal goal of every State, a foreign invasion with the intent of occupancy is technically impossible. In view of realism, every State is required to meet certain international obligations and amongst them pivots around self-defense. Given that States can formulate international laws to institute their existence, chances are less for zombies to negotiate for a place of survival. According to Drezner (2011) the ontology of social constructivism can offer survival of the zombies. Social constructivism assumes the existence of the society is based on the perceptions of humanity. Accordingly, society is shaped by what humanity makes of it (Drezner, 2011). This implies that, survival of zombies shall be determined by the way humanity makes of them. Drezner (2011) suggest that zombies can be echo friendly since they only feed on organic materials. However, Drezner points out that, zombies might take over causing humans to adhere to their behavioral characteristics leading to catastrophic implications for modernity (2011). Considering that zombies have the norm of feeding on each other for sustenance, there is a likelihood of arousing security concerns due to the emergence of a zombie catastrophe. Accordingly, assimilating zombies into humanity can spread anti-human behavior that compromises human identity. Drezner also argues around liberalism stating that cooperation with the zombies can be established to ensure they coexist with humanity in harmony (2011). Such an approach can be supported by the formation of pro-zombie NGOs would emerge to ensure that they fight for the civil rights and survival of zombies. When putting the unrest that is characteristic of zombies, Drezner defends this aspect by stating that it is even the nature of humans to fight against each other and zombies are not an exempt (2011). Further, the imperfect and vulnerable coexistence of humanity and zombies is most likely to attract the formation of policies for ensuring the survival of both parties. Despite this argument slightly favoring the presence of zombies in civilization, cooperation is most likely to encounter a dilemma. It is important to mention that zombies only focus on short term goals such as feeding on human flesh. Accordingly, it shall be impossible for zombies and humans to formulate mutually and implement policies conjointly. The occurrence of a zombie invasion can most probably solicit the advent of realism. Realism is an aspect of IR that seeks to protect the existence of States. Most common in this theory is that States strive to remain powerful and equip themselves against any possible attacks from the outside. Accordingly, States can only survive by the use of power to coerce their enemies. In this case, a zombie invasion can trigger States to use their prowess to contain the situation. Such a reaction by States would be driven by the fact that zombies are less concerned about collaborating with humans. Given their aggressive nature to feast on human flesh, most States would rather retaliate the incursion as opposed to finding ways of assimilating the zombies in civilization. Contrary to Drezner’s argument, it is essential that the survival of humanity is brought into the discussion. This is because, unlike zombies, humans by nature, shall cease to exist. Also, considering the nature of zombies to feast even on themselves for survival, the deceased humans shall practically be primary targets. Accordingly, it is physically impossible for States to consider assimilating the unfriendly foreigners into the society. In realism, States perceive themselves to be autonomous. This implies that, it is a challenging task for States to formulate even policies that govern survival outside of their borders. Considering that States possess some form of defense mechanism, a zombie incursion shall practically be met with a rebuttal. Interestingly, Drezner (2011) mentions that various bodies such as NGOs may emerge to try and intervene in the situation. No matter how much that seems convincing, in the end, zombies might take over. There is a higher chance that the zombies can seek refuge in other States when faced with resistance in trying to settle in a particular place. Such a move can still be met with resistance. In fact, the States might take advantage of the situation and try to use it as means of determining the most powerful amongst them. Additionally, it is nearly impossible for States to cooperate and form treaties for the purposes of accommodating zombies into humanity. Author’s Assessment of IR Theory with Regard to Non-state Actor Threats The incursion of zombies shall most definitely trigger a form of rebuttal from States. To some extent, the Drezner’s sentiments to some extent are arguably practical. Given that the States are only focused on internal affairs and securing their borders, foreign incursion in a different State shall be of a lesser concern. In view of international relations theories, the most predominant facet is the manner in which States seek only to concentrate on matters that only concern the State. Accordingly, it shall be an impossible for one State to mingle in the wrangles of another State. Besides, since States compete for dominance and prowess, the failure of one State due to a zombie invasion might enable a different State to emerge and dominate the rest of the States. Accordingly, Drezner’s argument that IR theory has little effect on non-state matters is factual. In summary, Drezner analyzes the effect of international relations in the event of a zombie invasion. He uses zombie aspects such as the ability of these creatures to feed on organic matter can be beneficial to governments in maintaining an eco-friendly environment. However, it is the nature of zombies to compete for survival even if it means feeding on each other. Also, considering that zombies cannot be convinced to exist in harmony, an invasion would ultimately imply that, the state of humanity shall be at risk. Drezner’s arguments are well crafted and thoughtful. On the other hand, the nature of zombies shall make it nearly impossible for any State to consider living with them in coherence. Despite the benefits zombies have, their relationship with humanity is not feasible, and any incursion into any State shall ultimately be resisted. Reference Drezner, D. (2011). Theories of international politics and zombies. Princeton, N.J.: Princeton University Press. Read More