Pandemics, Authoritarian Populism, and Science Fiction: Medicine, Military, and Morality in American Film

This book explores the social origins of the recent surge in authoritarian and populist social movements by examining the themes of tribalism, confidence in medical science, and confidence in military violence in film remakes of popular science fiction stories. It identifies three elements of authoritarian populism: tribalism, distrust of rational elites and their institutions, and willingness for violent coercion.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 140 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the social roots of the recent rise of authoritarian and populist social movements, with a particular focus on two film remakes of popular science fiction stories: "I Am Legend" and "Day of the Dead." By examining how the themes of tribalism, trust in medical science, and confidence in military violence have evolved over time as these stories have been re-told in popular culture, the author identifies three key elements of authoritarian populism: tribalism, distrust of rational elites and their institutions, and a willingness to use violent coercion. Through an engaging study of popular culture, this book offers valuable insights into contemporary political attitudes and provides scholars with a rich resource for exploring critical theory, film studies, and science fiction.

Tribalism has been a recurring theme in science fiction stories, often symbolizing a sense of community and unity in the face of adversity. However, the author argues that in the context of authoritarian populism, tribalism has taken on a more sinister meaning. It is used to create divisions between people and to promote a sense of loyalty to a particular leader or group, rather than to promote social cohesion.

Distrust of rational elites and their institutions is another key element of authoritarian populism. This distrust is often rooted in a belief that these elites are out of touch with the needs of ordinary people and are working to undermine their interests. In the context of science fiction stories, this distrust is often portrayed as a fear of advanced technology or scientific progress, which is seen as a threat to traditional values and ways of life.

Willingness for violent coercion is the third key element of authoritarian populism. This willingness is often driven by a desire to protect traditional values and ways of life from perceived threats, such as immigrants or other groups that are seen as different or inferior. In the context of science fiction stories, this willingness is often portrayed as a willingness to use military force to defend against alien invaders or other threats to human civilization.

The author argues that these three elements of authoritarian populism are closely interconnected and that they have contributed to the recent rise of authoritarian and populist social movements. He suggests that by understanding the social origins.

Weight: 267g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367720575