The struggle for power between states to ensure survival and other vital interests is a foundational component of realism, the oldest and most influential theoretical paradigm in the study of international relations (IR). Currently, academics and scholars alike are fiercely debating the merit of realist arguments regarding the role of NATO policy in the onset of hostilities between Russia and Ukraine in 2014, and their escalation in 2022. Similarly, but in a very different sphere, the struggle for power and survival is a key trope in the lore and narratives of the dystopic universe of Warhammer 40k, a highly successful science fiction franchise that continues to attract millions of customers and fans around the world. But is this shared role played by power, survival, and war only accidental or do 40k’s tropes work according to the micro-foundations of realist theorizing? If so, does the popular appeal of 40k help to explain the ongoing prominence and relevance of realist theories? And how can we explain these unlikely similarities between fictional universes and social science theorizing? The presentation explores all of these questions, answers some, and provides hypotheses for others. The underlying research is based on the presenters’ previous work on the history and theories of realist thought as well as on a deconstructive reading of key texts and themes in the lore of Warhammer 40k. Likely case studies will involve the genesis and structure of the Imperium of Man and the Tyranid faction as a focal point for realist tropes as well as the rise of the Tau as an analogy to prevailing IR discussions about the geopolitical rise of China and the prospects of a Sino-American war.
Author bio
Jonas J. Driedger is an Interim Professor (W3) for International Organization at Goethe University Frankfurt and a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Peace Research Institute Frankfurt (PRIF). His work focuses on interstate war, regional security orders, deterrence, and the international security politics of Eurasia and the Transatlantic.
