Watch One Of The Following Post-Apocalyptic Movies List

Watch One Of The Following Post Apocalyptic Movies List Of Movies A

Watch one of the following "post-apocalyptic" movies (list of movies at bottom) and discuss how such a scenario could potentially impact thinking about international relations theory in the future. Must be at least 750 words. To answer the question, you can either (select ONLY ONE of the three methods listed below for answering the question): 1. Select one specific theory already discussed in the class and write about how the turn of events in the movie would challenge (or reinforce) that theory. 2. Discuss how the turn of events in the movie would affect component parts of the many theories we discussed (i.e., a zombie apocalypse would likely challenge the notion of anarchy between states promoted by Realism, as states would likely unite under one-world government to fight the zombies on a global scale and develop a hierarchical order based on military strength. Whereas Constructivism would likely be better suited to explain a zombie apocalypse because as the zombie apocalypse took place it would challenge historical forms of identity between states and as they began to cooperate to survive would no longer necessarily see themselves as competitors in a world of limited resources, but rather compatriots in a fight for survival. Thus, it would be able to be able to better explain what would likely be completely reconstructed notions of identity between distinct states across the world. With regards to Marxism...

3. You can develop a completely new theory that could explain the turn of events in the movie. Creativity here is welcome! Do not worry about sounding academic or abiding by the strictures of academic writing. Because the content of most of these movies may be disturbing and/or may offend individual beliefs. If you have any issue finding a movie to watch, or with the overall nature of the assignment, please contact me and we can work on an alternative. The intent of the assignment is to unleash creativity and critical thinking, considering alternative future scenarios and their potential impact on international relations. It is not to instill fear or to generate anxiety. Again, let me know if you have any issues. Separately, you should be able to find one of these movies through a streaming service you already pay for, for free online, or through the university library. If you cannot, and do not want to pay the small fee to watch one, then let me know and we can find an alternative assignment.

Movie List (with links to trailers to help you decide which you would like to watch):

• Mad Max Fury · Link to trailer (Links to an external site.)
• Children of Men · Link to trailer (Links to an external site.)
• World War Z · Link to trailer (Links to an external site.)
• 28 Days Later · Link to trailer (Links to an external site.)
• The Original "Matrix" Movie: · Link to trailer (Links to an external site.)
• 12 Monkeys · Link to trailer (Links to an external site.)
• Dawn of the Planet of the Apes · Link to trailer (Links to an external site.)
• Threads · Link to trailer (Links to an external site.)
• The Road · Link to trailer (Links to an external site.)
• Snowpiercer · Link to trailer (Links to an external site.)
• Dredd · Link to trailer (Links to an external site.)

Paper For Above instruction

The depiction of post-apocalyptic scenarios in popular films offers a fertile ground for reevaluating international relations theories, as these scenarios often challenge or reinforce the core assumptions of established paradigms. Among various theories, realism and constructivism provide contrasting lenses through which to explore how such catastrophic events could reshape global politics. By analyzing movies like "Children of Men" and "World War Z," we can understand how extreme crises could precipitate shifts in state behavior, identity, and global order, prompting a reconsideration of prevailing international relations frameworks.

Introduction

Post-apocalyptic movies, from "Mad Max" to "The Road," encapsulate visions of a world transformed by catastrophe. These cinematic narratives not only entertain but also serve as allegories for potential future realities, raising compelling questions about the stability, cooperation, and identity of states in crises. This essay explores how such scenarios could challenge or reinforce current international relations theories—particularly realism and constructivism—by examining the underlying assumptions about state behavior, anarchy, and identity.

Realism in Post-Apocalyptic Contexts

Realism assumes that states are primary actors operating in an anarchic international system, driven by security and power interests. In a typical realist view, states pursue self-interest, with military capabilities and strategic dominance shaping interactions. However, a post-apocalyptic scenario depicted in "World War Z" and "Dawn of the Planet of the Apes" could dramatically challenge this paradigm. The total collapse of civil order and the potential for a unifying external threat—such as zombies or mutated apes—might incentivize states and groups to cooperate to ensure survival.

For example, in "World War Z," the global fight against the zombie pandemic could catalyze unprecedented cooperation among states, undermining the realist assumption of perpetual anarchy. As states recognize the futility of conflict in the face of a common existential threat, hierarchical structures or coalitions might emerge based on collective security, thereby challenging the core realist belief that conflict and competition are inevitable.

This scenario suggests that under extreme crises, the anarchic nature of the international system might temporarily give way to hierarchical or cooperative arrangements—an insight that amplifies the limitations of classical realism when applied to catastrophic events.

Constructivism and Identity Reconstruction

Constructivism emphasizes the importance of social identities, norms, and shared understandings in shaping state behavior. It posits that identities are socially constructed and can evolve over time based on collective experiences. Post-apocalyptic movies often depict a complete overhaul of identities—bordered by survival, shared purpose, and humanitarian efforts. "Children of Men" exemplifies this transformation, where the collapse of social order leads to new collective identities centered around protection and hope for the future.

In such scenarios, traditional notions of sovereignty and competition are challenged. As groups band together for survival, notions of "us" versus "them" erode, fostering new identities rooted in cooperation and shared adversity. This aligns with constructivist views that identities are fluid and can be reconstructed in response to existential threats.

These films demonstrate that in extreme crises, social norms evolve, and new identities emerge—prompting a reevaluation of how international actors understand themselves and others in a radically changed world.

Implications for International Relations Theory

The analysis highlights that post-apocalyptic scenarios can serve as testing grounds for IR theories. While realism may underestimate the potential for cooperation in crises, constructivism provides a flexible framework for understanding identity shifts. However, the reality depicted in these films—temporary alliances, emergent hierarchies, and community-based survival—suggests that a hybrid approach may be necessary to fully grasp the dynamics at play.

Furthermore, such scenarios propel the development of new theories—integrating elements of realism, constructivism, and even Marxism—to explain how global order might be reconstructed amid chaos. For instance, a post-apocalyptic world might see the emergence of new power structures driven by resource scarcity, economic rebuilding, or ideological shifts, warranting novel theoretical frameworks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, post-apocalyptic movies serve as powerful conceptual laboratories for international relations scholars. They challenge long-held assumptions about anarchy, power, and identity, encouraging scholars to refine existing theories or develop new paradigms capable of explaining complex, crisis-driven transformations. Whether through the reinforced importance of cooperation or the reconstructed identities that transcend traditional statehood, these scenarios prompt vital reflections on the future of global politics.

References

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